Nigerian journalists should set the agenda for politicians to ensure only credible Nigerians, devoid of bias were elected into political offices.

They were urged to work in line with their mandates as the Fourth Estate of the Realm as they play a key role in setting the agenda for good governance.

Governor Yahaya Bello of

Kogi State made the call during the Gala Night at the end of the maiden GYB Seminar for Nigeria’s Political and Crime Correspondents in Abuja.

Bello said having a more united and secured Nigeria from twenty-twenty-three and beyond lies in the hands of journalists through responsible reportage and setting the agenda for politicians seeking to serve.

He added that any politician seeking any position is there to serve the citizens hence, the responsibility of citizens to set the criteria and agenda for who they want and trust to serve them.

“That is what happens in developed world and advanced democracies and we can also attain that in Nigeria if you set the agenda for political parties, including my own party.

“From 1960, 1999 till date, I think we should have learnt enough from our past mistakes and learn to do things differently,” Bello said.

Bello said as a leader he would continue to serve and sacrifice for his people and the entire Nigerians in fairness, equity and justice.

Participants who are reporters at the workshop were drilled with a newsroom exercise on political essay writing to further task them on accurate and responsible reportage.

A cash price of N1 million was given to the winner, N500,000 to the first runner-up, N250,000 to the second runner up.

Each of the five contestants who scored above 50 per cent, received consolation price.

Speaking, Chinelo Obago, winner of the competition, expressed joy and appreciated Governor Bello for the training opportunity given to journalists.

Obago said what she and other participants have learnt would further equip them for responsible reportage.