The Plateau State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Ramnap, mni, on Friday, May 9, 2025, warmly received members of the Plateau State Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA) during a courtesy visit to her office in Jos.

The visit, led by PLABOMA Chairman Matthew Tegha, was aimed at fostering collaboration between the association and the Ministry in promoting credible information, digital engagement, and development-focused reportage in Plateau State. Attended by executive members of the Ministry and representatives of the association.

In his remarks, Mr. Tegha congratulated Hon. Ramnap on her appointment and expressed the association’s readiness to support the Ministry’s efforts in ensuring effective information dissemination across digital platforms.

“Your appointment is well-deserved, given your track record and wealth of experience,” Tegha said. “As professional online media practitioners and digital influencers, PLABOMA is committed to working with government institutions to promote transparency, unity, and responsible digital engagement.”

He emphasized the role of online media in shaping public discourse, fighting misinformation, and amplifying the state’s development narratives. Tegha also highlighted the association’s reach, revealing that PLABOMA comprises over 30 active members managing reputable platforms with a combined reach of millions of readers.

“Just recently, one of our members published a post that garnered over five million views,” he noted. “We have maintained partnerships with government agencies, businesses, and event organizers because of our capacity to reach diverse audiences quickly and effectively.”

In response, Hon. Ramnap appreciated the association’s visit and acknowledged the critical role bloggers and online media play in promoting Plateau State’s image.

“As a writer and blogger myself, I consider myself part of this association,” she said. “I recognize your contributions in promoting the state’s narratives, and I look forward to a fruitful collaboration.”

She used the opportunity to highlight Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s administration’s core priorities: economic development, good governance, and security—driven by technology, stakeholder trust, and infrastructure. She noted ongoing efforts such as interfaith dialogue initiatives, revitalization of the Operation Rainbow security outfit, and the integration of technology to enhance safety and trust within communities.

While addressing the PLABOMA team, Hon. Ramnap emphasized the importance of ethical journalism, fact-checking, and non-sensational reporting.

“There’s a need to protect the image of Plateau State,” she said. “As information disseminators, you must resist the urge to be the first to break the news at the expense of accuracy. Avoid provocative headlines. Instead, ask yourselves, ‘How can we, out of patriotism, project and protect the image of Plateau?’”

She further encouraged bloggers to focus on constructive storytelling, saying the media has the power to either build or destroy a nation.

“No country is without challenges, but responsible media highlights the potential and goodness within. When we project a positive image, we attract investment and open up opportunities—from new businesses and factories to increased tourism and employment,” she stated.

The Commissioner concluded by calling for a more in-depth engagement between the Ministry and PLABOMA in the future, urging the association to use its influence to promote peace, development, and nation-building.