By: Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto.

The commendation followed the recently organised Congress by the state council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

The Chairman, Muhammad Usman Binji, while delivering his speech, said he was deeply honoured to attend the important Congress and public lecture organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sokoto Chapter.

“Let me begin by commending the leadership and members of the NUJ for sustaining this platform where ideas are exchanged, professionalism is strengthened, and national consciousness is deepened,” he said.

He noted that the theme of the lecture, “Patriotism, Journalism and National Development,” is timely and essential, especially at a period when the nation faces diverse social, economic, and security challenges, adding that the role of the media has become even more central in shaping public understanding, strengthening unity, and promoting responsible citizenship.

Binji was of the view that journalism is not merely a profession but a national duty.

“A patriotic journalist upholds truth, fairness, and balance, and reports with a deep sense of responsibility to the nation. Patriotism in journalism does not mean concealing the truth; it means telling the truth constructively, accurately, and in ways that contribute to peace, development, and public trust.

“It is worthy of note that our state, and indeed our nation, desires this commitment now more than ever. Our precarious security situation requires that we conduct our duties with the utmost consideration for the promotion of peace and progress in our society. Journalists are generally viewed as custodians of the conscience of society; we must therefore do all we can to justify the confidence that society has reposed in us,” Binji averred.

The State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Alhaji Sambo Bello Danchadi, in his remarks, said that in Sokoto State, under the leadership of Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, PhD, the government recognises the media as a vital partner in the implementation of its Nine-Point Agenda. To strengthen the media landscape and enhance public information services, the state government has embarked on upgrading its media outlets.

He further stated that the state government has transformed the Sokoto State Media Corporation, including the installation of new transmitters for Rima FM and the provision of modern broadcasting equipment for both Rima Radio and Rima Television. According to him, these interventions are already improving signal quality, expanding coverage, and enhancing content delivery to the people.

Similarly, a new modern studio has been provided at the Ministry of Information headquarters, strengthening its capacity for content production and public enlightenment. In addition, the ministry has commenced the publication of a quarterly bulletin, alongside several radio programmes designed to highlight and propagate the achievements of the administration across all sectors.

“Let me use this opportunity to sincerely thank the NUJ Sokoto State Chapter for the recently concluded State Government Projects Tour. The tour has greatly boosted the dissemination of accurate and reliable information on government activities and achievements across both urban and rural communities. Your commitment to professionalism and factual reporting is truly commendable.

“As journalists, you hold the power to inform, educate, and unify society. I therefore urge the NUJ and all media practitioners to continue promoting patriotism by combating misinformation, adhering to ethical standards, and highlighting developmental efforts that strengthen public confidence in governance,” he said.

Sambo Bello added that the Ministry of Information will continue to support the media through collaboration, capacity building, and open access to information that promotes transparency and accountability.

He expressed confidence that the insights shared during the lecture would further enrich understanding of the vital link between journalism, patriotism, and national development.

Professor Tanko Yahaya Baba of the Department of Political Science, Usman Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, delivered the lecture titled “Patriotism, Journalism and National Development.”