GOVERNOR Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has reaffirmed his administration’s firm commitment to press freedom, constructive dialogue with the media, and the promotion of democratic values and public accountability.
The Governor made this known on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the newly elected executives of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kano Correspondents’ Chapel, held at the Government House.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor, the Director General, Media and Publicity, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, emphasized that the Yusuf administration holds the media in high regard as a strategic partner in governance.
“Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is media-friendly and highly values the role of journalists in promoting transparency and good governance,” Bature said.
“We welcome constructive criticism not propaganda or misinformation but criticism that aims to build and support a democratic culture rooted in accountability.”
Sanusi Bature congratulated the new leadership of the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, led by Murtala Adewale of The Guardian Newspaper, for emerging victorious through a peaceful and democratic election.
He commended the chapel’s continued commitment to bridging the gap between the government and the people, especially in ensuring that citizens receive accurate, timely, and objective information about government policies, programmes, and development efforts.
“We see the media not just as watchdogs, but as allies in delivering good governance. Our doors remain open to all accredited journalists who operate with professionalism and integrity,” he added.
He further assured that the Kano State Government would continue to grant unhindered access to public information, promote mutual respect in engagements with media professionals, and invest in initiatives that build the capacity of journalists in the state.
In his remarks, the newly elected Chairman, Correspondents’ Chapel, Adewale, appreciated the existing cordial relationship between the state government and the media, and reaffirmed the chapel’s resolve to uphold journalistic ethics, balance, and fairness in reportage.
“We are here to deepen the partnership with government and reinforce our role in advancing democratic accountability through objective and factual reporting,” he said.
He called for a more structured framework for collaboration between the state and media professionals, urging the government to support training opportunities and engagement platforms that enhance journalistic performance.
The visit also served as an avenue for open discussion on strengthening government-media relations, enhancing the capacity of correspondents in Kano, and ensuring consistent access to credible and official information.
Both sides acknowledged the critical need for an informed citizenry as a cornerstone of democracy and resolved to continue working together to ensure that the people of Kano are kept aware of developmental strides, challenges, and reforms across sectors.
Governor Yusuf, since assuming office, has repeatedly emphasized transparency, people-focused governance, and citizen participation values that, according to his media aides, align perfectly with a free and responsible press.