By John Odhe, YENAGOA
The Bayelsa Indigenous Publishers Association (BIPA), the umbrella body of indigenous newspaper publishers in the State, has elected Mr. Ebi Andy Ozegbe, publisher of The Light Newspaper, as its new chairman, with a pledge to reposition the association and restore its prominence in the state’s media landscape.
Ozegbe emerged at an election held at the conference hall of Niger Delta Herald Newspaper in Ekeki, Yenagoa, following the expiration of the tenure of the immediate past executive led by Dr. Francis Dufugha, publisher of Niger Delta Herald news tabloid.
The election also produced new officers to steer the affairs of the association for the new tenure.
In his acceptance speech after the swearing-in ceremony, Ozegbe thanked members for the confidence reposed in him, assuring them that his administration would work diligently to justify their trust.
The new chairman, who had previously served in the same capacity, said his administration would embark on a comprehensive repositioning of BIPA to move the association out of what he described as its present state of decline.
He promised to transform the association in line with contemporary trends in the media industry, stressing that members could no longer afford to remain on the sidelines of the rapidly evolving digital media space.
Ozegbe said his administration would ensure that all member-publishers embrace online and social media platforms as part of efforts to expand their reach, improve visibility and remain relevant in the changing media environment.
He also pledged to pursue programmes that would promote the welfare and professional interests of members, insisting that BIPA members deserved greater recognition and consideration in the affairs of the state.
According to him, the association must not only serve the interests of its members but also play a more active role in contributing to the development of society.
He expressed determination to deploy his experience and leadership capacity to make BIPA a stronger, more vibrant and respected professional body, with greater relevance in Bayelsa State and Nigeria.
Ozegbe called for the cooperation and support of all members, saying the success of the new administration would depend largely on their collective commitment and unity of purpose.
Speaking earlier, the immediate past chairman, Dufugha, thanked members for the support and cooperation extended to his administration throughout its tenure.
Dufugha congratulated the new executive and wished them a successful tenure, urging members to continue to work together for the growth and development of the association.
Other elected officers include: Mr. Ereku Bomolagon of The Atlantic Express Newspaper, Vice Chairman; Mr. Sheriff Hussain of Dialogue Newspaper, Secretary; Mr. Tamadu Eze of National Concept Newspaper, Treasurer; and Mr. Victor Christopher of Niger Delta Society Magazine, Publicity Secretary.
