The National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) commenced in Kano on Tuesday, with union leaders praising the state’s infrastructural transformation and cordial relationship with the media.
NUJ President, Alhassan Yahaya, who led members of the union’s national leadership to the Government House, said the decision to host the meeting in Kano was informed by the state’s developmental progress and media-friendly policies.
During an inspection tour of Kano metropolis, Yahaya and his delegation expressed satisfaction with the level of ongoing infrastructure projects, describing the transformation as commendable. “We are overwhelmed by the progress made in terms of infrastructural transformation taking place in Kano,” Yahaya stated.
The NUJ President also commended the Kano State Government for creating a supportive environment for journalists, urging that such positive engagement be sustained. He stressed that a free press was essential for democracy and societal development.
Governor Abba Yusuf, represented by his deputy, Aminu Gwarzo, welcomed the NUJ leadership to Kano and pledged to continue safeguarding press freedom in the state. He assured journalists of an enabling environment to operate without interference or intimidation.
Yusuf highlighted the administration’s achievements across infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and youth and women empowerment, noting that most campaign promises had been fulfilled. He pledged that more impactful projects were in the pipeline.
The governor described the NUJ’s choice of Kano as a venue for the NEC meeting as a testament to the cordial working relationship between the government and the media, urging continued collaboration for the benefit of the people.
Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, also welcomed the NEC delegates, emphasising the importance of strong government-media cooperation in advancing state development.
The NEC meeting is expected to deliberate on key issues affecting journalism practice in Nigeria, including media welfare, journalist safety, and strategies to protect press freedom.
Governor Yusuf called on journalists to remain professional, objective, and committed to their constitutional responsibilities while assuring that his administration would continue to support the growth of a free and credible press in Kano.
