*As a Citizenship Daily reporter bags professional excellence award
From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
The Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani has emphasized that his administration will focus on initiatives that benefit the people, acknowledging the media’s critical role as the watchdog of society.
Sani made this known at the Kaduna State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) 2024 Press Week with the theme: “The Role of the Media in Holding Government Accountable: Emerging Challenges and Prospects.”
He urged journalists to uphold the truth and investigate hidden matters to protect society from lawbreakers.
While exercising their constitutional rights, the media should avoid damaging the reputation of innocent people.
Governor Sani reiterated the state government’s commitment to partnering with the NUJ to accelerate the state’s development, describing journalists as “worthy partners.”
He also cautioned the media against politicizing security issues and stressed the importance of critically examining situations before reporting.
Governor Sani highlighted the need for the creation of state police to address the shortage of security personnel and cover ungoverned spaces within the region.
The governor noted the state government’s ongoing efforts with various security agencies to protect lives and property, including providing over 150 patrol vehicles to support their operations.
He called on the media to join the advocacy for state police creation and to update laws addressing security challenges.
Governor Sani also expressed concern over the circulation of illegal arms in Nigeria, urging the media to contribute to addressing this issue.
In her remarks, Asma’u Yawo Halilu, Chairman of the NUJ Kaduna State Council, noted the importance of the event, which celebrates journalists and raises awareness
Halilu emphasized the high societal expectations placed on journalists, recognizing their role as the voice of the voiceless and agenda-setters for a better society.
She reiterated the constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression, noting that journalists in Kaduna still struggle with access to information.
She appealed to the state government to create a more supportive environment for journalism and ensure the safety of journalists.
Halilu commended Governor Uba Sani for his leadership and commitment to good governance, urging the administration to address urgent issues like kidnappings and poor living conditions.
In his remarks at the event, Samuel Aruwa, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, emphasized the importance of factual and responsible reporting, while charging journalists to uphold integrity and ensure stability
Aruwa underscored the necessity for journalists to thoroughly verify information before publication to avoid causing instability or disrupting peace.
He stressed that while holding the government accountable, journalists must maintain integrity, be unbiased, and avoid corruption.
“As the mirror of society, we must ensure that we are free from corrupt activities and remain clean,” Aruwa stated, urging the media to lead by example in their professional conduct.
Meanwhile, the reporter of Citizenship Daily, Mr. Femi Mustapha has bagged
the Excellence in Professional Conduct award.
Mr. Femi Mustapha was applauded for his exceptional reportage and desire to better the state and the nation at large.
The Council lauded Mr. Mustapha for always rising to expectations in his reportage and being a shining light to the members of the fourth estate of the realm in the State.
