By Ankeli Emmanuel, Sokoto
Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu has reassured that journalists are worthy partners in the business of ensuring good governance, hence the hold leaders accountable and also set agenda.
The governor who stated this Thursday night during a special Ramadan Iftar with executives of the Nigeria Union (NUJ) Sokoto State chapter, as well as the chairmen, Secretaries and Treasurers from each of the 7 Chapels in the State, said both
the conventional and social media are promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance.
He however appealed for adherence to the ethics of the profession, saying, his government cherish constructive criticism as he is always ready to deliver on his promise of ensuring a new Sokoto State.
While admonishing Nigerians to always embrace peaceful coexistence, the governor admitted that this year’s fasting was a special one because both Muslims and Christians began the Ramadan and Lent same day.
In his promise of running an all inclusive and open door policies, the governor urged journalists to feel free in reaching to his office through the Director General Media and Publicity to seek clarification to have a balanced perspective on any matter that requires their response before going to the press.
Governor Ahmed further said his government has shown serious concern for the security situation in the State by providing over 200 vehicles and hundreds of mortocycles as well as other logistic support to security agencies in the State.
In appreciation of the cooperation he has enjoyed from journalists in the State, the governor therefore donated an official vehicle to the NUJ, adding, some of the request from the NUJ such as rehabilitation of the Press Center and inclusion of members in State Commitees would be handled by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
Speaking earlier on behalf of journalists in the State, the State Chairman of NUJ, Comrade Usman Mohammed Binji thanked the governor, noting however that such avenues provides opportunities for constructive engagement between the government, conventional media practioners as well as the new media stakeholders on how best to strengthen collaboration and address challenges faced by members.
Comrade Binji who admitted that the governor is making huge progress in transforming Sokoto State, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, security, youth and women empowerment, and rural development, made special reference to several completed and ongoing projects just within 3 years.
Highlight of the event was the presentation of an Award of Appreciation to Governor Ahmed Aliyu by the NUJ in recognition of his support and commitment to the media in Sokoto State.
