Bauchi State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Usman Shehu Usman, has assured journalists that the state government is ready to provide a conducive working environment for them.
He said that press freedom under democratic dispensation cannot be over-emphasised, hence the government’s resolve to continue to exhibit a high sense of decorum in respecting individual or group opinions in media platforms.
Addressing journalists as part of the activities marking the International Press Freedom Day in Bauchi weekend, the commissioner asked the practitioners to exhibit patriotism in the discharge of their responsibilities as watchdogs of the society.
He said, “With free and responsible press we will attain a free and responsible society within the state. And we as a government we have the responsibility to give you the necessary environment to operate”.
The commissioner told the journalists that they have the responsibility to tell the truth and be guided by the ethics of their profession.
Alh. Usman Shehu Usman recalled that the Bauchi State government has never harassed any working journalist operating in the state.
He emphasised that “Government and journalists are partners in progress, especially in a democratic setting. We understand that in Bauchi State, and that’s why we are committed to creating a conducive environment for people to carry out their businesses.”
He urged journalists always to verify their information and ensure accuracy before publication, noting that once misinformation causes damage, it can be challenging to undo.
The commissioner assured that the government has invested significantly in upgrading state-owned media organisations, Bauchi Radio Corporation (BRC) and Bauchi State Television (BATV) and that regular broadcast services are expected to resume by the end of May.
Regarding casual staff in both institutions, he stated that the ongoing recruitment process would provide permanent employment opportunities for all qualified individuals.
He added that, for now, allowances for these staff members have been increased to boost morale and productivity. “To get the best out of your staff, you need to motivate them and that’s exactly what we’ve done,” he said.
The chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bauchi State Council, Comrade Umar Sa’id, commended the commissioner for Information for visiting the union’s secretariat as part of the activities marking the celebration of World Press Freedom Day.
Represented by his vice, Ahmed Kaigama, Comrade Sa’id expressed deep appreciation for the existing cordial relationship between the state government and the media.
He noted that the sustained collaboration has created an enabling environment for journalists to operate freely and without undue interference.
He further emphasised the importance of press freedom in strengthening democracy and promoting accountability.
Umar Sa’id urged the state government to ensure that journalists are protected in the course of their duties.
