Zulum honoured with NUJ ‘Media-Friendly Governor’ award at 70th anniversary celebration

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has been honoured with the Media-Friendly Governor Award by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) during a special event marking the union’s 70th anniversary held on Saturday in Abuja.

The NUJ recognized Governor Zulum for his consistent support for press freedom, open communication, and his collaborative relationship with the media. The award adds to his growing list of accolades, including the NUJ Good Governance Award (2024), NUJ Most Promising First-Term Governor (2019), and the Forbes African Leadership Award (2024).

Represented at the event by his Acting Chief of Staff, Dr. Babagana Mallumbe, Governor Zulum expressed deep appreciation for the recognition, stating that the award was not just personal but symbolic of the strong partnership between the Borno State Government and the media.

“This award underscores our unwavering commitment to fostering an environment where a free, vibrant, and responsible press can flourish,” Zulum said.

He praised the NUJ for its decades-long role as a pillar of democracy, commending journalists for their courage in informing the public, holding leaders accountable, and shaping national discourse, especially in conflict-affected regions like Borno.

“In Borno State, we have witnessed firsthand the invaluable role journalist’s play, often at great personal risk, in bringing to light the challenges we face and celebrating our resilience,” he added.

Describing the media as an “indispensable ally,” the governor emphasized how accurate and objective reporting helps bridge communication between the government and the public, enabling feedback and encouraging transparency. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to media development in Borno and across Nigeria.

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Zulum also encouraged media professionals to embrace emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance productivity, personalization, and audience engagement. However, he cautioned against the risks of misinformation and ethical lapses, urging journalists to maintain professional standards.

Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, assured the media of the Federal Government’s commitment to upholding freedom of speech and supporting a thriving press.

“The administration of President Tinubu will continue to advance policies that promote media freedom and partner with the NUJ in navigating the evolving media landscape,” Malagi said.

Governor Zulum’s delegation included his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Internal Security, Alhaji Aminu Chamalwa.

The NUJ 70th Anniversary Awards Ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries including deputy governors of Kano, Bauchi, Oyo, and Ondo States, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, heads of federal media agencies, past NUJ presidents, veteran journalists, and other media professionals from across the country.