Jos, July 7, 2025 – The Commissioner of Budget and Economic Planning in Plateau State, Hon. Adams Bulus Lekshak, has emphasized the need for factual and responsible reporting in the digital media space, calling on bloggers and online journalists to uphold credibility while disseminating information to the public.

He made the call on Monday while receiving members of the Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA), who paid a courtesy visit to his office in Jos.

Hon. Lekshak, who was joined by the Permanent Secretary and Directors of the Ministry, described the social media space as “a very delicate platform,” noting that its reach even extends to the most remote communities due to the penetration of smartphones and internet access.

“If you verify your facts very well before you make your reports, it will help the government. Once we do not misrepresent the facts, government will always want to collaborate with you,” the Commissioner stated.

He reiterated the ministry’s openness to collaboration and transparency in governance, adding that Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s administration operates with a mindset of openness and accountability.

“Let’s state the facts as they are. It makes the society healthy,” he added, assuring the group of the ministry’s willingness to work with credible platforms like PLABOMA to ensure timely and accurate information dissemination.

Earlier in his remarks, the Secretary of PLABOMA, Mr. Ibrahim Kallamu, introduced the association as a network of over 30 verified bloggers and digital media professionals committed to grassroots engagement and the fight against fake news.

“Our association was established in 2020 and is made up of members with tested and trusted credibility. While many national platforms focus on Abuja and Lagos, PLABOMA prioritizes local stories and indigenous voices here on the Plateau,” Kallamu said.

He emphasized that the visit was not just ceremonial, but a step towards exploring collaboration in public enlightenment and policy dissemination.

“We’re here to seek your partnership, to ensure the right information reaches the grassroots, and to help bridge the gap between the government and the people,” he added.

Supporting the call for collaboration, the association’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Peter Akpah, noted that the group maintains strict vetting procedures for new members to ensure discipline and quality reporting.

“Blogging is not just about typing randomly. We operate with a code of conduct. Not everyone who runs a blog can join us. We verify their content, and if they’re in the habit of spreading misinformation, they’re not admitted,” Akpah explained.

He further highlighted PLABOMA’s past partnerships, including a national dialogue campaign with the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, stressing that their platforms are already amplifying the voices and concerns of citizens—locally and globally.

“Even when we’re not physically present, we ensure someone documents events and delivers credible reports. People now pause and ask: ‘Did PLABOMA carry this?’ That’s the kind of trust we’ve built,” he said.

Hon. Lekshak expressed appreciation for the visit, reiterating that the ministry is already engaging citizens across 43 zones in the ongoing budget processing cycle and would be glad to involve PLABOMA in amplifying such engagements.

“We are partners with you because of what we do here. We will continue to work together so that the people of Plateau State get the right information at the right time,” he concluded.