By Simeon Nwakaudu
I first got to know National Network Newspaper in 2011 through its publisher, Pastor Jerry Needam. Right from that very first contact, I realised that the newspaper was founded with a goal to promoting the good of Rivers State.
Reports and features published in National Network Newspaper are geared towards promoting the development of Rivers State. Therefore, the editorial slant of the newspaper has always been to bring the Rivers’ story to the front burner. This is aimed at ensuring that readers appreciate the need for Rivers State to be on the right track of growth.
As a result, at all times, National Network defends the interest of Rivers State and her people. The commitment of National Network is to the people of Rivers State and not to any government in power.
Between 2011 and 2015, National Network remained committed to the good of Rivers people, even when the government in power at the time, worked for other private interests.
Since it started operations in 2004, National Network has remained consistent, despite the huge financial implications of sustaining its operations. The overall interest has been to always keep Rivers people abreast with the right information.
The role that National Network plays in Rivers State can be better appreciated when placed side by side with some of its peers in the business of Information dissemination. Whilst National Network concerns itself with the defence of Rivers State through strategic publications of pro-Rivers Information, many publications and news outlets domiciled in the state are influenced by partisan mischief and considerations.
They usually forget that Rivers State is way beyond any Government in power. I believe that National Network remains relevant in the information arena because it has remained on the side of truth and Rivers State.
After 15 years of service to Rivers State, National Network deserves to be celebrated. They have contributed in very clear terms to the development of Rivers State. They have played their part by sticking to the ethics of journalism and refusing to allow politics to drown their commitment to community welfare.
It is on this note that I join well-meaning Nigerians and Rivers people in particular to celebrate the publisher, editors and staff of National Network Newspaper . Their contributions to the development of Rivers State will always be recognised.
For standing with Rivers people throughout this journey towards the creation of a New Rivers State, National Network Newspaper can only grow from strength to strength. I wish them very fruitful years ahead as they remain constant in the promotion of Rivers State.
