The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has honoured Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, with its prestigious Media Friendly Governor Award.
The award ceremony took place on Saturday at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Conference Centre in Abuja as part of activities marking the 70th anniversary of the Union.
Governor Zulum, who has received several accolades in the past for his exemplary leadership, was previously honoured with the NUJ Good Governance Award (2024), NUJ Most Promising First Term Governor (2019), and the Forbes Magazine African Leadership Award (2024), among others.
Receiving the award on the governor’s behalf, Acting Chief of Staff Dr. Babagana Mallumbe expressed gratitude to the NUJ for the recognition. He said the award symbolized the strong partnership between the Borno State Government and the media, reflecting a shared commitment to a free, vibrant, and responsible press.
“This award is not just an accolade for me personally, but a testament to the thriving partnership between Borno State Government and the media. It underscores our unwavering commitment to fostering an environment where a free, vibrant, and responsible press can flourish,” he said.
Zulum praised the NUJ for its enduring role as a defender of truth, a voice for the voiceless, and a vital pillar of democracy, adding that journalists have consistently informed, educated, and held leadership accountable, shaping national discourse and progress.
He noted that in Borno State, journalists have played a critical role, often risking their lives to report on the state’s challenges and resilience. Describing the media as an indispensable ally, Zulum said their objective reporting has helped communicate government efforts, address public misconceptions, and generate feedback from citizens.
“We believe that a well-informed citizenry is essential for good governance and sustainable development,” he added.
Reaffirming his commitment to supporting the media both within and outside Borno State, Zulum congratulated the NUJ on its 70th anniversary and expressed hope for the continued growth and integrity of journalism in Nigeria.
He also encouraged media professionals to embrace the opportunities presented by Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly in task automation, personalization, audience engagement, and operational efficiency. However, he urged caution regarding misinformation, disinformation, and ethical concerns associated with AI technologies.
Representing President Bola Tinubu at the event, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, assured that the administration remains committed to upholding media freedom and supporting policies that strengthen press freedom in Nigeria. He pledged continued collaboration with the NUJ in adapting to the evolving media landscape.
Dr. Mallumbe was accompanied by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dauda Iliya, and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Internal Security, Alhaji Aminu Chamalwa.
The NUJ at 70 anniversary ceremony attracted 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 establishments; past NUJ presidents; veteran journalists; and media professionals from across the country.
