FUNKE ODUWOLE and FLORENCE UDOH

Head, Public Affairs Section of the American Consulate in Lagos, Mr Tim Gerhardson, who made the pledge also disclosed that policy governing the issuance of U.S visas is the same worldwide.

The policy, he said, is nondiscriminatory, transparent and allows non-Americans visit the U.S. without hinderance.

Speaking when he paid a courtesy visit to Champion House, the corporate headquarters of Champion Newspapers Limited (CNL) in Lagos, Mr Gerhardson who was accompanied by Mr Femi Omowunni, said he had noticed with interest the commitment and dedication of the Nigerian media in promoting sustainable democracy.

He expressed the willingness of his country’s government to further encourage media practitioners with training and exchange programmes.

Mr Gerhardson stated that his office would be glad to work with the Nigerian media towards promoting good governance and entrenching the values of democracy.

He said Nigeria was a great country with wonderful opportunities: "Since I came here about three weeks ago, I’ve enjoyed good relationship with Nigerians and we’ll do everything we can to encourage Nigerians and promote democracy in the country.

"It is really a very interesting time to be here as elections are around the corner. We would like to work with the people, the media especially to ensure successful elections. I am happy to say that Nigerians are interesting and very talented people that are very serious about what they do," Mr Gerhardson stressed.

He said his office would be very happy and ready to give whatever assistance that might be required by the media to promote good relationship between Nigeria and the U.S: "One important thing for the U.S. Government is that we have a good relationship built on trust".

The Public Affairs Officer noted that the media, especially the newspaper is like oxygen without which, one cannot breathe.

He commended Champion newspapers for supporting programmes and activities of the consulate: "We are very impressed by all you have been doing and we really appreciate it."

Group Managing Director (GMD) Champion Group, Mr Emma Agu who received the visiting officers said Champion newspapers is committed to the ideals of good governance and democracy.

He told the diplomat that the way he approached his job in Nigeria matters.

"We want to see the seriousness with which you approach your responsibility in Nigeria. You need to have an open mind to help. You approach your duty to the satisfaction of your government," he stressed.

The GMD stressed that Nigeria is truly a country of opportunities, "it is a great country, it is possible you face some challenges, because it may not always be rosy but I assure you, you will find your stay very interesting."

Earlier, General Manager, Publications, Mr Sam Ibemere who conducted the officers round Champion facilities had informed the visitors that the company was committed to the pursuit of developmental journalism which also strives to keep pace with modern democracy.

He also noted on-going efforts to reposition the company.

According to him, "this is very important because Champion newspapers is being repositioned as a brand leader in the industry.