Media Aides to the 25 local government council chairmen in Niger State have been asked to exhibit a high sense of professionalism while managing the image of their bosses.
The State Vice Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Comrade Uriah Gana, gave the charge when the media aides paid a courtesy call on the leadership of the Union at IBB Pen House Minna on Thursday.
Comrade Uriah Gana, who spoke on behalf of the Council Chairman, Comrade Abu Nmodu, also told them to always cross-check facts before giving out information to the public.
He said that as image makers, the media aides should work towards bridging the communication gap between their bosses and the people at the grassroots.
Comrade Gana emphasised the need for them to always provide easy access for journalists to their bosses, as doing so would enhance relationships with newsmen.
He then called on them to avail themselves of the services of International Institute of Journalism domicile at IBB Pen House, to receive training on modern techniques of journalism.
Earlier, the State Secretary of the Forum, who is also the Press Secretary to Tafa Council Chairman Markus Sakoma, said the visit was to identify with NUJ and seek the support and cooperation of the Union to enhance their activities.
Sakoma announced that plans were on to organise an induction course for the media aides, adding that the State Chairman of NUJ, Comrade Abu Nmodu, has been selected as a keynote speaker at the occasion.