“Don’t Turn the Pen into a Sword” Henry Mbadiwe Warns Media, Urges Ethical Journalism

“Don’t Turn the Pen into a Sword” Henry Mbadiwe Warns Media, Urges Ethical Journalism

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Registrar-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria (CIPMN), Henry Mbadiwe, has emphasized the urgent need for ethical journalism, strategic project thinking, and responsible communication in a time plagued by misinformation and global security challenges.

Mbadiwe gave the charge recently while delivering a stirring lecture during the DICAN Bi-Annual International Conference 2025 held in Abuja.

Held under the theme “Nigeria’s 4Ds Foreign Policy Strategy Amidst Global Security Challenges, Strategic Misconceptions, and the Age of Disinformation: The Role of Diplomacy, Intelligence and Media in Shaping National and Global Stability,” the conference brought together key figures from the diplomatic, intelligence, and media communities to reimagine their roles in maintaining peace and cohesion both in Nigeria and globally.

Speaking passionately, Mbadiwe noted that in every sector including diplomacy sound project management principles remain vital. He called for goal setting, stakeholder analysis, resource alignment, and strategic communication to guide national and international initiatives.

“In everything we do, especially in diplomatic and security sectors, we are managing projects. Whether it’s a foreign policy rollout or counterterrorism partnership, the tools of project management planning, risk management, and stakeholder engagement are indispensable,” he stated.

Turning to the media, Mbadiwe issued a reflection on the weaponization of journalism. Quoting the timeless adage, “The pen is mightier than the sword,” he warned that in Nigeria today, the pen is increasingly being used as a sword a tool of harm rather than truth.

He recounted personal experiences of being the target of unverified and damaging media reports, noting, “I returned from the UK to serve my country, not to be destroyed by false headlines.”

“The media must remember their sacred role in nation building,” he said. “Journalists and media houses must verify, research, and reflect before publishing. Once the pen becomes a sword, it becomes as destructive as any weapon.”

The CIPMN boss also praised the DICAN Chairman for his determination in launching the conference, citing “grit” consistency and courage in the face of obstacles as a crucial leadership quality.

Mbadiwe’s keynote message resonated with participants, especially media representatives, many of whom acknowledged the urgent call for professionalism, ethical standards, and a shift from sensationalism to solution-based reporting.

As Nigeria grapples with complex international relations and internal instability, the conference and voices like Mr. Mbadiwe’s serve as a critical reminder that diplomacy, intelligence, and media are not just tools of statecraft but pillars of societal integrity.