By Mu’awuya Bala Idris, Katsina
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has donated a brand-new bus to the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Katsina State Council, to enhance journalists’ mobility and improve media coverage of government activities across the state.
Presenting the vehicle, Governor Radda said it is the responsibility of every responsible government to ensure that information reaches the people, describing the media as a critical partner in promoting transparency, accountability and good governance.
He noted that journalism plays a vital role in shaping public opinion and providing constructive feedback that enables government to improve its policies and programmes.
“The responsibility of any responsible government is to provide a means of disseminating information to the people.
“Journalism enhances good governance because diverse opinions help us identify the right direction. Our collective responsibility is to move the state forward for the benefit of our people,” the governor said.
Governor Radda also urged journalists to continue promoting peace through responsible reporting, particularly as Katsina State faces security challenges.
“We have security challenges, and the role of the media is very significant in enlightening the public.
“We must avoid anything capable of hindering the growth and development of our dear state,” he added.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Yusuf Ibrahim Jargaba, expressed appreciation to the governor for the donation, describing it as timely and invaluable.
He recalled that the chapel’s previous bus, donated during the administration of former Governor Ibrahim Shema more than a decade ago, had become old and unreliable, making it difficult for journalists to cover some official engagements.
“Our previous bus served us for about 10 years and had become very old.
“Sometimes we could not attend important events because of its condition. With this new bus, Insha Allah, wherever you go for official engagements, we will be there to provide comprehensive coverage,” Jargaba said.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance and protection for Governor Radda and his administration, while assuring him of the chapel’s commitment to professional, balanced and responsible journalism in the service of the people of Katsina State.