By: Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Jigawa State Council, has called on the state government to urgently provide support to farmers ahead of the rainy season to boost food security and protect livelihoods across the state.
The union also urged both the government and residents to intensify the clearing of drainages, waterways and culverts to avert possible flooding during the rainy season.
These formed part of resolutions reached during the NUJ Congress held on Wednesday at the Union’s State Secretariat in Dutse.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the congress, the journalists stressed the need for timely distribution of farm inputs, fertilisers and extension services to farmers to avoid delays capable of affecting agricultural productivity.
The congress, attended by members from various chapels across the state, deliberated on issues affecting the media profession, governance, security and citizens’ welfare.
On security, the union commended the efforts of the Jigawa State Government and security agencies in maintaining peace across the state, while calling for stronger collaboration with local communities to tackle emerging security challenges, particularly in rural areas.
The congress also reaffirmed the commitment of journalists in the state to ethical, accurate and balanced reporting in line with the NUJ code of conduct.
The union further applauded the state government for the recent recruitment of workers into the Ministry of Information, describing it as a major step toward addressing decades-long manpower shortages in the sector.
According to the communiqué, the shortage of personnel had over the years affected effective dissemination of government policies, public sensitisation and documentation activities.
The NUJ, however, urged the government to extend similar recruitment exercises to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) where there is still a shortage of Public Relations and Information Officers.
The congress also expressed concern over rising cases of drug abuse among youths and called on the government and security agencies to intensify enforcement and adopt proactive strategies to curb the menace.
The union appealed to government agencies, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to make use of the NUJ State Secretariat Conference Hall for press conferences, media briefings and ceremonial activities to enhance professionalism and improve the union’s internally generated revenue.
The congress equally commended the state government and the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board for restoring Hajj seat allocation to journalists after six years of suspension.
It also praised the Ministry of Livestock for successfully organising the recent Kalgwai Fishing Festival in Auyo, noting that the event promoted cultural heritage and showcased the economic potential of the fisheries and livestock sector.
The NUJ State Chairman, Comrade Ismai’la Ibrahim Dutse, reiterated the union’s commitment to promoting democracy, accountability and development through responsible journalism.(Truthfinder.com)
