By Gloria Ikibah
The Embassy of Belgium in Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening diplomatic relations with the country.
Belgian Ambassador Pieter Leenknegt stated this during a courtesy visit by the Diplomatic Correspondents’ Association of Nigeria (DICAN), led by its Chairman, Frederick Idehai, at the embassy in Abuja.Discussions centered on fostering collaboration, particularly in capacity-building initiatives for DICAN members and other areas of mutual benefit.
Addressing the delegation, Ambassador Leenknegt also commented on the ongoing discord between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Kogi Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing it as an unnecessary distraction, urging key stakeholders to promote dialogue and reconciliation in the interest of national stability.
Speaking further, Ambassador Leenknegt has some reservation over what he described as “sloppy journalism” among Nigerian Journalists which needs to be corrected.
This unpalatable adjective, according to the envoy, stems from an experience he had when he visited the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
“It was a fruitful meeting I had with the FCT Minister with key areas of interest well highlighted.
“However, the next day I was surprised to find in over 13 print and online media that the meeting the previous day, was between the outgone Ambassador of the Embassy and with his photograph attached.
“This was a meeting I personally attended so how could they attribute it to my predecessor and attached his photo?
“That’s terrible and what it meant was that one person goofed and others copied from the original source without due verification,” he lamented.
Earlier in his remarks, DICAN Chairman, Comrade Idehai Frederick emphasised that the partnership will enhance cultural exchange between Nigeria and Belgium.
He said the role of media in promoting democracy, good governance and bilateral relations cannot be overemphasized.
“We will provide your country with the needed support in the area of quality and credible reportage for the sake of humanity,” Idehai said.
The visit also touched on the upcoming DICAN Diplomatic/Security International Conference, scheduled for June 19, 2025, in Abuja to brainstorm on how to make the world a better and safer place.
“We want to enhance bilateral relations through our engagement and agenda setting.
“When governments across the nations of the world know that journalists are interested in monitoring their programmes, they wake up and address their challenges,” Idehai stated.