Kaduna NUJ Lauds Gov Uba Sani’s Robust Leadership Style

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kaduna State Council, has commended Governor Uba Sani for his commitment, diligence, doggedness and sincerity of purpose in piloting the State’s affairs thus far.

According to the Council, the governor has clearly demonstrated and redefined what leadership is all about by taking into cognisance the interest and value of the people at all times.

These were the submissions by the Council Chairman, Comrade Asma’u Yawo Halilu, in a speech to mark the 2024 NUJ Press Week in Kaduna state.

She further said; “His administration in Kaduna state, based on observation by journalists so far, is geared towards providing good governance to the people of the state without blowing his own trumpet.

“We, members of the NUJ greatly and sincerely commend your commitment, diligence, doggedness and sincerity of purpose in piloting the affairs of the State. Congratulations Your Excellency”.

While applauding the State government’s efforts leading to the release of the two abducted Journalists and their family members, Comrade Asma’u also urged the President Bola Tinubu-led administration to as a matter of urgent national importance, address the spate of kidnappings, hunger and poor living conditions bedeviling the nation.

Delivering a lecture titled; “The Role of the Media in holding government accountable: Emerging Challenges and Prospects“, Dean School of Communications and Media Studies, Kaduna State University, Professor Ayodele Joseph noted that journalists should rise to the occasion as the forth estate of the realm and take their roles seriously in order to meet the Society’s expectations.

He counseled thus; “Your report must be factual and evidence based. The challenge before the media therefore is how to balance the demand for freedom, with the pursuit of truth and up holding ethical values”.

The University Lecturer praised the media, particularly in the years past for holding government accountable and urged practitioners to do more, in the areas of investigative journalism and following up on events.

On his part, Chairman of the occasion, NUT President, Comrade Titus Audu Amba charged media practitioners to use the occasion of this year’s Press Week to reflect and honour journalists around the world who have lost their lives while discharging their duties, while also working to check the infiltration of journalism profession by quacks.

“Encourage and develop further in investigative journalism because, if we don’t dig deep to get the fact and background of the news, you may not inform the people properly”, he said.

Addressing NUJ members at the occasion, Governor Uba Sani said the role of the media in the society cannot be over emphasized, adding; “The media plays a critical role in holding government accountable. As the watchdog, and conscience of the society, the media must at all times uphold the truth.

“They must dig deep to unveil what is hidden in order to protect the society from law breakers and unaccountable leaders”.

He assured that his administration is committed to carrying the people along and he will continue to work for the progress of the people.

Going down memory lane, the Governor highlighted his contributions to nation-building as a former spokesperson to the ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo and a former lawmaker where he pushed for bills that would protect and safeguard the lives of Nigerians.

He listed the bills as that for State policing and proliferation of small arms, promising that he will continue doing his best in serving the people.

The NUJ Press Week celebration was graced by Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal; NUJ National Executive Committee (NEC) members, Executives of Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and members of NUJ, Kaduna State council.

The Week featured Awards presentations to both government officials and chapels members of the union in recognition of their contributions to the growth and development of Kaduna State and the media profession.