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The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has named Kano Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf its grand patron in recognition of his development strides in the education and health sectors.
NUJ National President, Comrade Chris Isiguzo, conferred the title on the Governor during a visit of the union’s leadership to Kano on Sunday.
Yusuf pledged support for the media in fulfilling its social responsibilities.
Speaking to the visiting delegation, he said: “We hold the media in very high regard, and our relationship with journalists in Kano and beyond is excellent,” Governor Yusuf declared.
“I am honoured to accept the role of Grand Patron of the NUJ in Kano, and I pledge to provide all necessary supporting to the union.”
According to a statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature, Isiguzo and his deputy, Comrade Alhasan Yahaya, presented the newly elected leadership of the NUJ Kano chapter to the state governor.
The NUJ is the second professional body to award Governor Yusuf for his commitment to education in recent weeks.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers also named Governor Yusuf, the “Most Teacher-Friendly Governor of the Year,” a fact noted by the NUJ president
Isiguzo also pointed to the governor’s Fellowship from the United States Institute of Management and Leadership as clear evidence of his commitment to good governance.
He said “Your Excellency, if the teachers say you are the best, we should all take that as a true reflection of your performance.
Usually, teachers take to the streets with placards to demand their rights, but in your case, they have commended your efforts in reforming the education sector.”
While congratulating the Governor on the awards, the NUJ president offered words of encouragement for the continuation of the excellent work started the Governor Yusuf, particularly in the areas of health and education.
According to the statement, the NUJ President also requested the Governor’s support in hosting the first National Council of Women Journalists in Kano this November and called for the renovation of the Kano Press Centre to meet modern standards.
He also urged the Governor to prioritise foreign training opportunities for Kano-based journalists to enable them to compete on a global scale and take their rightful position as trail blazers.