The Kano State Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has reiterated his administration’s unwavering dedication to the protection of press freedom and the empowerment of media practitioners across the state.

The affirmation was made through the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Malam Ibrahim Garba Waiya, during the official inauguration of the newly elected executive members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents’ Chapel, Kano State chapter.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner emphasized the state government’s readiness to support capacity-building and professional development initiatives for journalists operating within Kano and beyond.

“Very soon, the Ministry will unveil historic and transformative initiatives that will positively impact working journalists and uplift the practice of journalism in Kano State,” Waiya disclosed.

Congratulating the new executive council, Waiya described their emergence as a clear testament to the confidence reposed in them by their colleagues. He also lauded the immediate past leadership of the Chapel for its meritorious service and purposeful engagement.

Waiya underscored the strategic role played by the Correspondents’ Chapel in shaping narratives around government policies and the broader socio-political climate in the state.

“As representatives of reputable national and international media houses, you are the lens through which the world views Kano. Journalism is a noble profession one that thrives on truth, public interest, and national progress,” he said.

The Commissioner urged journalists to remain firmly guided by the core tenets of the profession accuracy, objectivity, and fairness particularly in a digital era overwhelmed by misinformation and fake news.

Acknowledging the longstanding cordiality between the Ministry and the Correspondents’ Chapel, Waiya expressed optimism that the newly inaugurated leadership will build on the legacy of partnership and mutual trust.

He further extended gratitude to the national leadership of the NUJ for recognizing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf as the “Media Friendly Governor of the Year 2025” at the Union’s 70th Anniversary Gala held recently in Abuja.

“The national honour is a reflection of Governor Yusuf’s principled stance on press freedom, media independence, and transparent governance,” Waiya noted.

In his inaugural address, the newly elected Chairman of the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, Murtala Adewale, pledged to lead with integrity, rebuild unity, and prioritize members’ welfare.

“We will focus on restoring cohesion within our ranks, while aggressively pursuing capacity-building opportunities through partnerships with institutions such as NITDA, MacArthur Foundation, and the Daily Trust Foundation,” Adewale stated.

He also announced plans to upgrade the Chapel’s secretariat with modern infrastructure, including internet connectivity, a functional newsroom, and sustainable revenue-generation platforms such as annual media summits, journalism awards, and professionally managed sponsorships — all without compromising editorial independence.

Representing the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, ACP Suleiman Gusau commended the media for its vital role in promoting peace and public order. He pledged the continued cooperation of the Kano State Police Command with journalists in the state.

“The media remains a key stakeholder in our collective effort to ensure safety, unity, and justice in Kano State,” Gusau affirmed.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by journalists, government officials, civil society actors, and representatives of security agencies.

Signed:
Salim Umar Ibrahim
Secretary, NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, Kano State