…As its national conference approaches
Members of the Catholic Media Practitioners of Nigeria, CAMPAN, Tuesday, visited the Bishop of Ahiara, Most Rev. Dr. Simeon Okezuo Nwobi, as part of their sensitization for the upcoming National Conference in Owerri next month.
Chairman of the National Planning Committee, NPC, Chief Chidi Nkwopara, who led the delegation, on behalf of the National President, Sir Chimdi Oluoha, described CAMPAN as “a child of circumstance”, saying that “it was formed to disseminate the true doctrines and activities of the Catholic faith and defend the faith generally”.
His words: “We should not let others tell our story. If they do and distort it, we are left with no option than to do a damage control,.”
He called for greater synergy between the church leaders and Catholic Media Practitioners., urging the Directors of Social Communication in various dioceses to be in closer touch with CAMPAN.
Chief Nkwopara, who represents the Vanguard Newspapers in Imo State, pointed out that communicating the church activities and aspirations should not be left for the church-owned media alone.
He specifically asked for an office space for CAMPAN in Ahiara Diocese, as well as solicited the support and encouragement of the diocese to members of the organisation, as they prepare to host their colleagues from various parts of Nigeria.
Nkwopara, who pointed out that it was the first time Owerri Province would host the national conference, said that the three-day conference will kick off on March 18.
Nkwopara said: “We sincerely plead that you assist us, as we play host to our colleagues, coming from all the Dioceses in Nigeria..”
Looking back at what transpired in Ahiaea Diocese before the Bishop’s enthronement, the CAMPAN boss commended his achievements so far, praying God to bless him and guide him in his episcopacy.
Responding, Bishop Nwobi admitted that the diocese needs the services of the media practitioners, adding, “we need to be heard after 13 years of silence.”
He said that it was because of the value the diocese places on communication that it invested in a Media Village comprising print and electronic.
He also promised to support the CAMPAN after consultations with his aides at the Cathedral.
The media practitioners also called on Rev. Fr. Benjamin Ogbonna, the Editor of The Guide Newspaper owned by the Catholic Diocese of Ahiara.
Among the delegates were Sir Ben Osuagwu and Hyacinth Okoli, Chairmen of CAMPAN in Ahiara and Umuahia Dioceses, respectively,.
Others were Chikezie Onyeabo, Ugoeze Violet Igwe, Dr. Richard Odu, Nze Collins Amadi, Chief Obinna Gasper Ibole, Elder Okonko, and Immaculate Ogu.
