By Our Correspondent
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kano State Council, has sanctioned its Secretary, Abubakar Shehu Kwaru, over alleged administrative infractions and financial misappropriation.
This was part of resolutions reached at the Union’s third congress meeting held on April 27, 2026, at the NUJ Press Centre in Kano, which drew a large turnout of delegates from various media chapels.
Addressing members at the gathering, the Council Chairman, Suleiman Abdullahi Dederi, commended journalists for their continued commitment to strengthening unity and professionalism within the union. The congress also adopted the council’s secretariat and financial reports after deliberations.
A key highlight of the meeting was the adoption of the report of the Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, which found the Secretary culpable of misconduct. The congress unanimously endorsed appropriate disciplinary measures.
On professional conduct, the union stressed the need for responsible journalism, especially amid rising insecurity. It urged journalists to balance courage with accuracy and empathy, while avoiding reports that could incite panic or jeopardize security operations. Members were also encouraged to uphold ethical standards and prioritize personal safety in line with global best practices.
In a move to strengthen professional identity, the congress approved the introduction of official identification cards for all members and affiliated chapels across the state, noting that this would improve coordination, access to assignments, and security.
The NUJ further called for sustained training and retraining of journalists, particularly in digital journalism, fact-checking, conflict-sensitive reporting, and media ethics, to keep pace with the evolving demands of the profession.
Beyond media-related issues, the congress raised concerns over the growing problem of drug and substance abuse in Kano State. It called for stronger collaboration between government agencies, civil society groups, traditional institutions, and security outfits to address the challenge, emphasizing the media’s role in driving awareness and behavioural change.
The congress also urged authorities to support farmers ahead of the rainy season through timely training and equitable distribution of farm inputs such as improved seeds, fertilizers, agrochemicals, and irrigation facilities.
While acknowledging existing challenges, the union commended the Kano State Government under Abba Kabir Yusuf, alongside the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, for their support to media practitioners.
The congress observed a moment of condolence for late media veterans, including B.K. Gabari, Hajia Lami Hafsat Machiddo, Hassana Safiyanu Gimel, Maryam Abdulhameed Magani, and Arabiyu Garba, offering prayers for their repose.
It also honoured retired journalists, including Usman Bello and Abbas Ibrahim, for their service and dedication to the profession.
In addition, residents of the state were urged to participate in community sanitation efforts, particularly the clearing of drainage systems, to mitigate flooding as the rainy season approaches.
The communiqué was jointly signed by Council Chairman Suleiman Abdullahi Dederi and Acting Secretary Hauwa Suleiman Zahradeen, on behalf of the communique drafting committee chaired by Isiyaku S. Ahmed
