Abia Trains Information Officers on Digital Communication, Tasks MDAs on Strategic Public Engagement

In a strategic move to boost government visibility and improve communication within Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), the Abia State Ministry of Information has held a capacity-building workshop for State Information Officers, emphasizing the adoption of modern, proactive communication strategies.

The workshop, organized at the behest of the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, aimed to equip officers with the relevant tools, digital skills, and mindset required to effectively manage public information in today’s fast-evolving media landscape.

While declaring the workshop open, Prince Kanu highlighted the pivotal role Information Officers play in shaping public understanding of government activities. He described the training as an essential opportunity for both personal and professional growth and encouraged participants to fully engage with the sessions.

He stressed the importance of mastering content creation, digital engagement, and the effective use of social media in amplifying government policies, programmes, and projects.

Also addressing participants, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Sir Chris Onwuegbu, raised concerns about the minimal visibility and support Information Officers receive in some MDAs. He noted that poor recognition and logistical limitations often hinder the impact of these officers. Onwuegbu called on agency heads to provide stronger backing while urging the officers to operate with heightened professionalism and dedication.

The workshop included technical sessions facilitated by Feman Media Agency Limited, with presentations from media consultants Jennifer Obiekwugo and Gerald Okeke, who represented the State Chief Information Officer. Their sessions focused on the practical elements of effective government communication, including strategies for reporting policy initiatives, project launches, inspection visits, and community engagement efforts.

Participants took part in breakout group discussions to exchange experiences and address shared challenges. Concerns highlighted included lack of digital tools, insufficient office recognition, weak infrastructure, and poor welfare support. Suggestions for improvement included regular training, provision of modern gadgets, and stronger integration into MDA operations.

The training is part of a wider initiative by the Ministry to reposition the information sector in line with Governor Alex Otti’s administration’s vision for transparency, accountability, and improved communication between the government and citizens.

With new skills and renewed motivation, the Information Officers are expected to return to their MDAs better equipped to effectively tell the Abia story and highlight the state government’s achievements with professionalism and impact.