The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Chris Isiguzo, has praised the remarkable accomplishments of Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, particularly highlighting his efforts in the health and education sectors.
This commendation was made during a visit to the Governor in Kano on Sunday, where Comrade Isiguzo, along with his deputy, Comrade Alasan Yahaya, conferred the title of Grand Patron of the NUJ on Governor Yusuf.
The purpose of the visit, according to a statement released on Monday by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, was also to present the newly elected leadership of the NUJ Kano chapter to the Governor.
During the event, Comrade Chris Isiguzo lauded Governor Yusuf for his recent recognition as the “Most Teacher-Friendly Governor of the Year” by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), as well as for receiving a prestigious Fellowship from the United States Institute of Management and Leadership.
These recognitions, he noted, are clear indicators of the Governor’s dedication to good governance and development, especially in sectors critical to the well-being of Kano State residents.
“Your Excellency, when the teachers say you are the best, we should all accept that as an accurate reflection of your performance,” said Comrade Isiguzo. “Usually, teachers would be out on the streets with placards, demanding their rights. But in your case, they have recognized and applauded your efforts to reform the education sector.”
The NUJ President went on to acknowledge the evolving role of the media in governance. He explained that journalism has moved beyond mere criticism and is now embracing development journalism a model that appreciates good governance while also pointing out areas needing improvement for the overall benefit of society.
He urged the Governor to keep up his good work, particularly in health and education, areas where his reforms have already had a noticeable positive impact.
“I want to congratulate you on these well-deserved awards and urge you to continue the excellent work you have begun in Kano State, especially in health and education,” Comrade Isiguzo added.
In the course of their meeting, the NUJ President made additional requests on behalf of the union.
He sought the Governor’s support in hosting the first National Council of Women Journalists in Kano this November, a significant event aimed at promoting gender equality and empowering female journalists.
He also called on Governor Yusuf to consider renovating the Kano Press Centre, which he described as in need of modernization to meet contemporary standards.
Furthermore, Comrade Isiguzo encouraged the Governor to prioritize training opportunities for journalists based in Kano, suggesting that foreign training programs would help local journalists compete on a global scale and improve the quality of journalism in the state.
In his response, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the media in fulfilling its essential role in society.
The Governor emphasized the important role that journalists play in ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.
“We have immense respect for the media, and our relationship with journalists in Kano and beyond is excellent,” Governor Yusuf said. “I am deeply honored to accept the role of Grand Patron of the NUJ in Kano, and I assure you that my administration will continue to support the union and the broader media community.”
Governor Yusuf concluded by pledging his support for the union’s initiatives, including the proposed hosting of the National Council of Women Journalists and the renovation of the Kano Press Centre.
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