By Amos Aar
THE GENERAL Manager of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Harvest FM, Makurdi, Mr. Shimataver Aondoakaa, has lamented the persistent challenge of epileptic power supply as a major constraint to effective broadcasting and service delivery at the station.
Aondoakaa made this known on Monday while receiving the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue State Council, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, who led members of the union’s executive council on a congratulatory visit to his office.
The General Manager disclosed that upon assuming office in August, the station was grappling with serious operational difficulties, including unstable power supply and a faulty generator, which adversely affected broadcast activities.
He noted, however, that the transmitter and generator have since been repaired, while a more robust and cordial working relationship has been established between management and staff.
Despite the improvements, Aondoakaa said the station continues to battle high diesel costs, underfunding and frequent power outages. He revealed that management is exploring partnership with a solar energy company, with a view to installing solar power facilities at the station, possibly by 2026, as a long-term solution to the power challenge.
Earlier, Comrade Ugber congratulated Aondoakaa on his appointment and appreciated the station’s support during the last NUJ elections. He urged the General Manager to sustain efforts at prioritising staff welfare, providing a conducive work environment and ensuring regular training to enhance professionalism and productivity.
Ugber assured that the Benue NUJ would continue to carry Harvest FM along in its programmes and activities, while praying for divine guidance, sound health and wisdom for the General Manager to successfully deliver on his mandate. He expressed optimism that Aondoakaa’s leadership would restore vibrancy to the station.
The Harvest FM General Manager, in his response, commended Ugber for sustaining monthly congresses to keep journalists informed on union affairs and for issuing communiqués at the end of such meetings as part of the union’s contribution to national development. He also appealed for stakeholder support to enable the NUJ chairman complete the ongoing renovation of the NUJ State Secretariat initiated at the start of his tenure.
Describing Ugber as a highly respected and determined leader, Aondoakaa pledged the continued support of Harvest FM to ensure the success of the NUJ under his leadership.
