THE Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has conferred the “Media-Friendly Governor of the Year” Award on Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, in recognition of his administration’s commitment to press freedom, open governance, and strategic engagement with the media.
The award was presented to the Governor at the NUJ’s 70th Anniversary Gala/Award Night and Book Presentation, held at the Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja.
The event was chaired by veteran journalist and former Governor of Ogun State, Chief Segun Osoba, and attended by leading figures in government, media and civil society.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya, represented by Commissioner for Environment, Water and Forest Resources, Hon. Mohammed Saidu Fawu, accepted the award and expressed profound appreciation to the NUJ for the honour.
He dedicated the award to all hardworking journalists in Gombe State and the entire citizenry.
“I am humbled and honoured to receive this prestigious recognition. I dedicate this award to the tireless media professionals in Gombe State who continue to uphold truth, transparency and the principles of responsible journalism.
“We will continue to work together to build a better society through open communication and accountability,” the governor stated in his message.
He also congratulated the NUJ on its 70th anniversary and commended the National President of the Union, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, for steering the body with purpose and professionalism.
In a goodwill message on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, lauded the NUJ for its role in strengthening democracy and governance in Nigeria.
He described journalists as “indispensable partners in national development,” urging them to continue to uphold ethics and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
NUJ President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, in his welcome address, said the awards for Governor Inuwa Yahaya and other recipients were in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the development of journalism and society at large.
Governors of Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Imo, Borno, Kano, Ondo and Oyo were among recipients of various categories of awards.
