The Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan, Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin, has urged media professionals to uphold truth, promote peace, and inspire hope in their work, especially in an era of misinformation, fear, and division.
Most Rev. Abegunrin made the call while addressing newsmen in Ibadan on activities lined for the 59th World Communications Day, with the theme: “Share with Gentleness the Hope that is in Your Hearts”, a message drawn from the first Peter 3:15–16 and chosen by Pope Francis.
Describing communication as both a vocation and a responsibility, the Archbishop noted that media professionals and digital content creators have a sacred duty to shape public opinion with empathy and not hostility.
“Our mission is not just to inform, but to inspire; not only to speak, but to listen with compassion. As communicators, we must not incite fear or conflict, but foster peace and understanding,” he stated.
Archbishop Abegunrin, while warning against using media platforms to divide rather than unite, stressed that in such times, the Church and its communicators must become calm and courageous voices echoing the eternal truth of the Gospel.
He also cautioned against the unchecked rise of artificial intelligence and digital platforms devoid of ethical values, urging media practitioners to remain deeply human in their approach.
“Technology must serve humanity, not the other way around. Communication must not lose its soul,”.
Highlighting the role of the Ibadan Archdiocese in advancing positive media culture, he explained that the Communication Directorate has lined up several activities including workshops, reflections, and youth-focused media engagements aimed at deepening ethical and creative communication.
Present at the event included the Chancellor of the Archdiocese, Rev. Father Anthony Omolade, Secretary, Rev. Father Richard Omolade, Director of Communication, Rev. Father Anthony Ogunyale and Chairman, 2025 World Communication Week, Dr. Paul Emokhare.
