By Ahmed Ahmed
The Newly elected officials that will run the affairs of Bauchi State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) have been inaugurated
The inauguration ceremony was held on Tuesday at the NUJ Press Center, Bauchi.
Those sworn in are: Comrade Umar Sa’idu Chairman, Ahmed Kaigama of News Agency of Nigeria NAN, Isah Garba Gadau of the State Television BATV as Secretary, Danjuma Sarki Saleh of Bauchi Radio Corporation BRC Treasurer, Adama Ibrahim of the state Ministry of Information Assistant Secretary.
Others are Isiyaka Ismail Wunti of Radio Nigeria Globe FM Bauchi Auditor, Salisu Bala Halliru of also from BATV as financial Secretary as well as Sani Mu’azu as Ex-officio.
The oath of office was administered by the Vice Chairperson of Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Bauchi State Chapter Barr Sadiya Saleh, who charged the new officials to work in accordance with the Union’s constitution.
In his remarks, the National President of the NUJ, Chief Chris Isiguzo said that, “Today is a momentous occasion as we gather here to inaugurate the new State Working Committee of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Bauchi State Council. I am truly honored to stand before you as the Representative of the National President of this esteemed Union to witness the transition of leadership.”
He said that,”First and foremost, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists for entrusting us with the responsibility of leading this union. It is a privilege that we do not take lightly, and we pledge to serve you with dedication, transparency, and unwavering commitment.”
According to him,”The role of Journalists in our society cannot be overstated. We are the watchdogs of democracy, the voice of the voiceless, and the guardians of truth. In a world flooded with information, our duty to provide accurate, unbiased, and ethical reporting is more critical than ever. We must continue to uphold the principles of journalism that define our noble profession.”
The NUJ President added that,”As we embark on this new journey with the incoming Exco, I urge all members to support them wholeheartedly. Leadership is a collective effort, and it is only when we work together that we can achieve our goals. Let us foster an environment of collaboration, openness, and mutual respect within our Union.”
According to him,” In the face of evolving challenges and opportunities, we must adapt and innovate. The media landscape is constantly changing, and as journalists, we must embrace new technologies, digital platforms, and diverse storytelling techniques. Let us not be afraid of change but use it as a catalyst for growth and improvement.”
“Additionally, we must remain unwavering in our commitment to the safety and protection of journalists. In many parts of the world, journalists face threats, harassment, and violence simply for doing their jobs. We must advocate for press freedom and the safety of our colleagues both within Nigeria and beyond,” he added.
He concluded saying, “I have full confidence in the capabilities of the new Executive Committee. Together, we will continue to champion the cause of journalism, defend the rights of journalists, and promote excellence in our profession.”
The NUJ President stressed, “I thank you all for your support and dedication to the Nigeria Union of Journalists. Let us work hand in hand to uphold the principles of journalism and contribute to the betterment of our society.”
Speaking on behalf of the new officials the Chairman, Comrade Umar Sa’idu pledged to consolidate on introduction of laudable initiatives aimed at redefining the practice of journalism in the state.
Umar Sa’idu said that, “you are very much aware that election is a process of choosing leaders through popular votes and what we are witnessing today is not only historic but the first of its kind in the history of NUJ in the state where all the Executives emerged unopposed in their bid.”
He also said that,”This might not be unconnected with the confidence reposed in us having seen what we have done in our first term in office. I want to assure my members that insha Allah we would not disappoint you, instead we are going to improve on our previous performance.”
The Chairman added that, “You may recall that during my first tenure, I outlined Five points agenda which included promoting inclusive governance, making our elders relevance in running the Union, observing professionalism, promoting training and retraining as well as promoting transparency and accountability in our activities.”
“My respected colleagues, it was during our thank you visit to all the eleven chapels and other units that I realized that the exco have fulfilled these promises, that resulted to a vote of confidence passed on us by the former Chairmen of the council as well as the entire congress during our meeting on 17th May, 2023,” he added.
He further said that,”I must use this opportunity to appreciate members of this union, Media Executives, former council chairmen and other senior colleagues for given us all the necessary support and encouragement to succeed, for more of such support.”
“However, I want to assure you that the re-elected exco would double its efforts to give you the best leadership throughout our tenure. But I want to advice those who think they would find us very cheap by disrespecting the mandate given to us, to think twice as we will not fold our arms and allow anybody to distract our attention no matter his or her status,” The Chairman said.
He assured that,”our new journey in the second term will definitely focus on training and retraining, improving the facilities within the secretariat and maintaining peace among members.”
He also said that, “Let me thank and appreciate all those who served In one committee or the other for your selfless service, assuring you that very soon we would establish functional committees to support our leadership.”
“Based on these, permit me to announce that all appointments and committees appointed by the former exco are here by dissolved with immediate effect,” he concluded.
