The Spotlight Magazine, established to unveil the activities, achievements and contributions of leaders in Nasarawa State and beyond, has been officially launched in the state.
The ceremony held at Gaji Luxury Hotel, Agwanga area of Nasarawa State, which attracted journalists, politicians, traditional rulers, community leaders, members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Nasarawa State Correspondents’ Chapel and other stakeholders.
Speaking at the event, the guest speaker and veteran journalist, Hon. Muktar Wekeel, commended the Editor-in-Chief of the magazine, Moses Yusuf, for the initiative, describing its establishment as a welcome development in the media industry.
He revealed that Yusuf was one of his former students, expressed delight at seeing him venture into publishing and make meaningful contributions to journalism and society.
He urged political leaders, public office holders and other stakeholders in Nasarawa State to support indigenous media organisations by patronising their services and recognising their role in informing the public and promoting accountability.
According to him, politicians who want to build lasting political relevance and maintain effective communication with the people must see journalists as important partners.
“If you are a politician and you want to go far, you must bring journalists close and make them your friends. You must also be generous to them,” he said.
He stressed that quality publicity and professional media services require adequate financial support, adding that politicians and individuals seeking effective media coverage must be willing to invest in the industry.
Wekeel, warned journalists against laziness and unprofessional conduct, urging them to embrace investigative journalism, carry out proper research and verify information before publication.
He noted that the growing influence of social media had created a situation where almost everybody claims to be a journalist, making it important for trained professionals to distinguish themselves through accuracy, credibility and adherence to ethical standards.
He urged media practitioners to remain committed to responsible journalism, particularly fact-checking, balance and verification, warning that publishing unverified information could erode public confidence in the profession.
Speaking on the 2027 general elections, Wekeel advised politicians and aspirants to maintain good relationships with their communities, particularly their neighbours and people within their immediate environment.
He urged them not to neglect those closest to them when sharing opportunities and benefits, noting that members of their immediate communities are often the first to stand by them during difficult times.
The veteran journalist also prayed for politicians aspiring to occupy elective positions in 2027, wishing them success in their political ambitions. He, however, reminded them that political power ultimately comes from God.
The Editor-in-Chief of The Spotlight Magazine, Moses Yusuf, said the publication was established to inform, inspire and promote principled leadership through credible journalism.
Yusuf explained that the magazine would provide independent analysis of politics, public policy and culture, with the aim of helping readers understand the ideas, personalities and developments shaping society.
He said the publication would also provide a platform for highlighting leadership activities, governance issues, public policies and other developments that could contribute to the growth and development of Nasarawa State and Nigeria at large.
He assured readers and stakeholders that the magazine would uphold the laws, ethics and professional standards of journalism in carrying out its responsibilities.
Yusuf appreciated everyone who attended the launch, describing their presence and support as a demonstration of confidence in the vision and future of the publication.
The event also featured the presentation of awards to selected individuals in recognition of their achievements and contributions in their respective fields.
The organisers said the awards were intended to appreciate the recipients and encourage them to sustain their efforts towards making positive contributions to society.
They described the establishment of The Spotlight Magazine as a welcome development, expressing optimism that the publication would make meaningful contributions to the media landscape in Nasarawa State.