Yusuf, Bello bag media awards, pledge more support for journalists
The Federal Government has urged the media to take the lead in promoting narratives that reflect the country’s democratic progress and achievements.

President Bola Tinubu made the call at the 70th Anniversary Gala/Award Night and Book Presentation of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, in Abuja, on Saturday.

At the event, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, and former governor of Kogi State were honoured by the pen soldiers. While Yusuf was awarded the Journalist-Friendly Governor award, Bello bagged a Lifetime Achievement Award on Media Empowerment.

Tinubu, the Special Guest of Honour at the event, was represented by the Chief Host, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.

Pointing out his unparalleled affinity with the Nigerian press that is in the history of Nigeria as a nation, the President charged the media to use their platform to reinforce national unity, trust and democratic consolidation.

“As we mark the 26 years of continuous democratic governance in Nigeria, the media must champion the narratives that reflect the country’s democratic gains: stories of institutional reforms, infrastructural development, citizen engagement and socio-economic advancement. By constructively spotlighting these milestones, the media not only honours the sacrifices that birthed the nation’s democracy but also helps to promote national cohesion and public trust in democratic institutions. In doing so, the media solidifies its role as a key pillar in sustaining and deepening Nigeria’s democratic journey,” he said.

He reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to press freedom, noting that a vibrant and responsible media remained essential to Nigeria’s democratic stability.

President Tinubu highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance ethical journalism in Nigeria through a strategic partnership with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) to set up a Category-2 Institute for Media and Information Literacy (MIL), in Abuja.

While affirming that though one of the key responsibilities of the media was to hold the government to account, he said his administration was desirous of partnering with the media to foster peace, security and prosperity for the country.

NUJ, on its platinum jubilee, awarded people who stand tall in various capacities.

Chief Press Secretary to the Kano Governor, Mustapha Muhammad, said the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Abdussalam Gwarzo, received the award on behalf of the Governor.

Speaking at the occasion, Gwarzo noted that numerous initiatives were being introduced by the Yusuf-led administration to promote press freedom and ensure a conducive work environment for journalists in the state.

The Governor dedicated the award to Kano people and all who believe in freedom of information and responsible journalism.

He promised to continue partnerships with the media to strengthen democracy, good governance, and the free flow of information.