By Emeka Ugwuanyi
In response to bridge the yawning gap between the policy makers and industry operators and the consequent suboptimal benefits from Nigeria’s energy sector, the Society of Energy Editors (SEE), a newly established professional body, has come into operation to connect the links, promote excellence in energy journalism and strengthen the gatekeeping function of the media in the energy sector.
The Executive Secretary of the SEE, Mr. Chuks Isiwu, in a statement announcing the establishment of the Society, emphasised its commitment to indepth knowledge and nuanced reporting in the energy industry, which has been lacking in recent times.
According to Isiwu, considering the complexities of energy issues, it is imperative that media professionals covering the sector have a deep understanding of its operations, government policies, and regulatory frameworks.
He further noted that membership of the Society is open to experienced journalists, editors, producers, and media professionals who have demonstrated a commitment to accurate and impactful reporting on energy issues.
Members are expected to uphold the highest standards of journalistic ethics and professionalism, continually enhance their knowledge of the energy sector (oil, gas, power, solid minerals, community relations, renewable energy, labour relations, energy finance, freight, & technology,) and actively engage in mentoring and knowledge sharing”, he added.
The statement entitled “Introducing the Society of Energy Editors”
– Elevating the Standards of Energy Journalism read: “The Society of Energy Editors, SEE, a new professional organization, has been launched to promote excellence in energy journalism and strengthen the gatekeeping function of the media in the energy sector.
“The Society’s establishment is a response to the need for in-depth knowledge and nuanced reporting in the energy industry, which has been lacking in recent times. With the increasing complexity of energy issues, it is imperative that media professionals covering the sector have a deep understanding of its operations, government policies, and regulatory frameworks.
“Membership is open to experienced journalists, editors, producers, and media professionals who have demonstrated a commitment to accurate and impactful reporting on energy issues. Members are expected to uphold the highest standards of journalistic ethics and professionalism, continually enhance their knowledge of the energy sector (oil, gas, power, solid minerals, community relations, renewable energy, labour relations, energy finance, freight, & technology,) and actively engage in mentoring and knowledge sharing.
“The Society will publish a quarterly ‘Nigeria Energy Outlook’ starting from the third quarter of 2024, providing advisory and clarifications on energy-related matters. Additionally, the Society will offer training and retraining programs for energy reporters and media executives to enhance the depth and quality of media coverage.
“By establishing the Society of Energy Editors, we aim to elevate the quality of energy journalism, contribute to a more informed public discourse, and support the growth and development of the energy industry.”
