Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, on Tuesday, attended the opening ceremony of the 2024 Press Week organized by the Kaduna State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) with the theme “The Role of Media in Holding Government Accountable: Emerging Challenges and Prospects.”
The Kaduna State NUJ Chairman, Hajia Asma’u Yawo Halilu commended our administration for its people-centered and inclusive approach to governance, and sustained efforts in ensuring the safety of lives and property.
She also appreciated the state government for its proactive efforts in ensuring the prompt release of some journalists who were abducted.
Gov Sani said “In my remarks, I acknowledged the pivotal role members of the journalism profession played in the struggle for independence, battle against military authoritarianism, and growth and development of democracy. I also noted the critical role the media plays in holding government accountable.
“I however drew the attention of the media professionals to some key issues that have led people to question the integrity, objectivity and neutrality of media organizations and practitioners.
“The media has been accused of sensationalism and allowing itself to be used as a tool for damaging the reputation of people.
“The challenge before the media therefore is how to balance the demand for freedom with the pursuit of truth and upholding of ethical values and behavior.
“The only way the media can push back the forces of media regulation is to effectively self – regulate its activities. It must strengthen its internal mechanisms for sanctioning erring journalists.
“In Kaduna State, we place great premium on transparency and accountability. A major pillar of our Governance Agenda is Nurturing Citizens Engagement. We are committed to carrying the people along in decision making processes, especially on how their resources are allocated and expended.
“We recognize the important and strategic role of citizens and the media in holding government accountable and accelerating growth and development.
“Consequently, we have been holding regular meetings with Kaduna State Elders Forum, religious leaders, youth and women groups to share thoughts on development issues, current and emerging security issues, and fashion strategies on how to address developmental challenges and win the hearts and minds of the people. The people are the greatest weapons against enemies of progress and development.
“During the event, the Kaduna State Council of the NUJ honored me with the Grand Patron of the Council. The Kaduna State Government will continue to work with the Kaduna State Council of the NUJ to accelerate the growth and development of our dear state and advance the frontiers of journalism.”
