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 at the Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja.
A statement issued by the director-general, Press Affairs, Ismaila Uba Misilli, said 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 the 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 congratulated the NUJ on its 70th anniversary and commended Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, the union’s national president, 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 uphold ethics and professionalism in their duties.
In his welcome address, NUJ president, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, 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.
The governors of Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Imo, Borno, Kano, Ondo, and Oyo were among the recipients of various awards.
