As the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) marks its 70th anniversary, prominent Gombe State People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and former governorship aspirant, Alhaji Abdulkadir Hamma Saleh, has commended Nigerian journalists for their unwavering commitment to strengthening democracy and ensuring good governance.
In a statement issued in Gombe, Hamma Saleh praised journalists for their vital role in exposing corruption, educating the public on government policies, and fostering national awareness on critical issues.
He acknowledged the sacrifices and resilience of media practitioners in holding leaders accountable and promoting transparency.
“As the NUJ celebrates this milestone anniversary, I commend journalists for their hard work and dedication to truth-seeking. Their efforts in enlightening the masses and ensuring that those in power remain accountable are invaluable to the progress of our democracy,” he stated.
Hamma Saleh further urged media professionals to uphold ethical journalism and maintain their watchdog role despite challenges, emphasizing the need for fairness, objectivity, and courage in reporting.
“It is crucial for journalists to remain steadfast, professional, and fearless in their duty to the nation. By doing so, they will continue to safeguard democracy, promote good governance, and contribute to a more informed and enlightened society,” he added.
The PDP chieftain also called on the government and media stakeholders to support press freedom and protect journalists from intimidation, harassment, and undue influence. He emphasized that a thriving democracy depends on a free and independent press that can boldly report the truth without fear or compromise.
