Benin City, Edo State – The Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, has emphasized the importance of capacity-building for government information officers as a strategic tool to enhance the dissemination of accurate and effective information.
Speaking during a one-day workshop organized by the Edo Communications Office (ECO) in Benin City, with the theme “Contemporary Social Media Application in Public Space,” Ohonbamu stressed that regular training and retraining of information officers is essential in the battle against misinformation, particularly in the digital age.
“Social media has taken center stage in how information is shared, and people attach significant value to it. It’s up to you—the professionals in conventional media—to push back against misinformation and the distortion of facts,” Ohonbamu told the participants.
He urged the officers to be proactive in countering false narratives and to recognize their crucial role in shaping public perception of government activities.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Dr. Fred Itua, noted that the role of information officers begins with understanding the governance process—including budgeting—and has evolved into a strategic function that combines both service and business.
“Information officers must be articulate and strategic in managing the image and brand of their respective Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). The resources invested in this training must translate into more effective communication,” Dr. Itua said.
The workshop received strong backing from the state government. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Desmond Agbama, commended Governor Sen. Monday Okpebholo and Commissioner Ohonbamu for supporting the initiative. He assured participants that such in-house training programs would continue regularly.
Welcoming attendees, the Acting Managing Director of ECO, Mrs. Maureen Nwine, described the workshop as a timely intervention.
“This dynamic session is about equipping you with the tools needed to thrive in the ever-evolving world of social media and public communication. As information officers, you are at the forefront of engaging citizens and building trust,” she said.
Facilitator Mr. Matthew Okunsebor led a session on “Work Ethics and Duties of Information Officers in Contemporary Times,” where he described information officers as image makers of the MDAs they serve. Drawing from his personal experience, he urged officers to uphold professionalism and ethical standards.
In a separate session on “Contemporary Social Media Application in Public Service,” Mrs. Ibigotemieari Adebiyi of Brand Icon Solutions stressed that social media has become a real-time platform for shaping public opinion, often even before traditional news outlets report events.
“The voice of the people is now online. Public officers must learn to listen, engage, and communicate in that space with empathy, excellence, and intention,” she said. She added that regular, meaningful content on social media is essential for visibility and connection with the public.
The event was attended by several senior officials, including the Director of Information, Mr. Odion Daniel; Director of Orientation, Mrs. Rose Imonikhe; and Director of Shared Services, Mrs. Omosigho Oghogho, among others.
