BON Lauds FG, States, Others On Fight Against Coronavirus

The Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria, BON, has acknowledged the commendable efforts of the Federal and State Governments, Media, Private Organizations and individuals towards minimizing the spread of COVID-19 in the country.

In a statement signed by Usman Umar Bello on behalf of the Chairman, BON, also commended the selfless and gratifying voluntary financial contributions of various individuals and corporate organizations in Nigeria to support the Federal and State Government‘s efforts in containing the Coronavirus.

The statement noted especially the critical decision of the Federal Government to lockdown the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Lagos and Ogun States, as well as the earlier pro- active directive to close the borders and international Airports to safeguard the Nation, describing the decisions as measures to encourage the Public to conform and adhere to professional medical advice and take all preventive measures seriously.

BON called on State Governments to spare no efforts in continually educating and sensitising their citizens on the dangers of COVID-19 while acknowledging the numerous programme ideas designed by its members being showcased through various Media campaigns for the prevention of the spread of the pandemic and encouraged them to increase the frequency of whatever campaigns or programme ideas designed and geared towards the education and sensitisation of the myriads of the Nigerian Public in combating the pandemic.

BON further appealed to Government at all levels to consider the provision of safety kits and palliatives to Journalists from both the public and private organizations in Nigeria, to encourage and give them confidence while discharging their duties of covering the unpredictable and dangerous pandemic.
BON also advised people to be wary of fake news, and always endeavour to get authentic information from recognizable and reliable Media sources.

The statement enjoined all BON members to always discharge their duties professionally in order to provide quality and authentic information to the public on COVID-19 at all times during the duration of the pandemic.