By Tobore Jerome
In the complex ecosystem of governance and public communication, a few individuals stand out not just for their credentials but for the tangible impact they make in shaping public discourse and engagement. Mr Fred Itua, is one such figure, a cerebral communicator whose blend of journalistic excellence, strategic insight, and public relations mastery has made him an indispensable asset to the Edo State government.
Fred Itua carved his professional foundation over more than a decade as a respected journalist and media strategist before transitioning into governance communication. Having worked many years with the Sun newspaper where he rose to the position of an Assistant Political Editor, Itua built a reputation for incisive reporting and thoughtful analysis on issues ranging from humanitarian crises and national governance to health, migration, and anti-corruption topics. His broad coverage gave him a deep understanding of public policy, national affairs, and citizens’ concerns, skills that translated impeccably into his role within government.
In November 2024, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo appointed Itua as his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), the first appointment of the incoming administration, underscoring the premium placed on effective communication from the outset. Itua’s appointment represented a strategic choice to bridge governance and the public through clarity, transparency, and articulate messaging.
What sets Fred Itua apart is not merely his journalistic pedigree but the analytical mindset and communication finesse he brings to government narratives. Itua has a proven knack for breaking down complex policies and governance issues into relatable narratives that citizens can understand and engage with a critical skill set that has made him indispensable.
Beyond press releases, his strategies involve active engagement with citizens through media channels and digital platforms, ensuring that government actions are explained, welcomed, and accurately represented. The weekly government house newsletter and the inside government house with Fred Itua are some of the laudable initiatives initiated by him that projected the image and policy of the Okpebholo led administration in good light and brought first-hand information to Edo people. Itua champions responsible political discourse and constructive governance engagement, a role that goes beyond routine press functions.
Itua’s excellence isn’t accidental, it is rooted in rigorous academic grounding. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Ambrose Alli University, a Master’s degree in Media Arts from the University of Abuja, and he was in the final stages of a Ph.D. in Development Communication at Veritas University, Abuja, at the time of his appointment. Such scholarly depth enhances his ability to craft communication strategies that are not only practical but also informed by theory and research.
His efforts did not go unnoticed. In 2025, Fred Itua received a prestigious award for “Digitalization” in recognition of his role in leveraging digital platforms to highlight government activities and achievements, strengthening transparency and public awareness in Edo State.
Peers and industry professionals have likewise celebrated his professionalism. Notably, his induction into the “Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR)” was praised as a testament to his mastery in public communication and his role in enhancing the interface between government and constituents.
Fred Itua’s journey reflects how thoughtful communication backed by intellectual depth and professional integrity can shape not just government messaging but the very way public governance interacts with the people it serves. For a state focused on growth, transparency, and engagement, Itua’s brain, his analytical mind and strategic communication has proven, and continues to be, a resource the Edo State government cannot easily do without.
With the recent development that saw him (Fred Itua) been replaced as the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, it is therefore imperative on the Okpebholo led administration to as a matter of urgency reassign Itua to a position where his intellectual prowess can once again benefit the Edo State government, as he is an asset that the Edo State government cannot do without.
