President of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters (SNB), Prof. Umar Pate, has called on broadcasters across the country to be socially responsible in discharge of their professional duties.

Speaking during induction of 150 broadcasters sponsored by the Kano State government recently, he, however, cautioned that “power without responsibility is dangerous.”

Pate, who is also Vice Chancellor Federal University Keshere, Gombe State, described ethics as backbone of broadcasting, adding that moral values are deeply embedded in the nation’s cultural and religious traditions.

To the don, “our cultural values promote good morals, while both major religions in the country emphasise good conduct. These principles are synonymous with the ethics of broadcasting.”

Saying broadcasting is a noble profession with numerous opportunities, he also urged practitioners to be
digitally competent and intellectually active to remain relevant in today’s evolving media landscape.

He cautioned broadcasters against misinformation and dangerous speech, stressing that media professionals must be knowledgeable enough to guide their audiences appropriately.

He added, “broadcasters should be humble, just like teachers. They must understand that their words shape opinions and influence society.”

The don advised broadcasters to exercise caution in the use of AI. adding that the technology lacks human emotions and must, therefore, be handled responsibly. He, thereafter, formally inducted the Commissioner as a member of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters in recognition of his continued support to the media profession.

In his speech, Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, said the sponsorship of the 150 broadcasters for induction was part of the government’s commitment to promoting quality and professional media practice in line with present-day realities.

On his part, Vice Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), Prof. Haruna Musa, represented by Prof. Ahmad Muhammad Tsauni, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to strengthening the communication field. He cited the establishment of radio and television stations within the university campus as evidence of that commitment.

The SNB Kano Coordinator and General Manager of Muhasa Radio and Television, Hajiya Aisha Sule, commended Kano State governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf for being media-friendly.