Niger State Governor Farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago has been decorated as the Grand Patron of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, (NUJ) Niger State Council.

The investiture of the Farmer Governor was done at the Council Chamber of the Government House Minna by the NUJ National President, Dr. Chris Isiguzo who also presented him with a certificate.

The honour was in recognition of his exemplary leadership qualities.

Farmer Governor Umaru Bago in his remarks described the role of journalism as vital to the development of any society adding that journalists have helped in shaping democracy in Nigeria through their reportage.

He said as the fourth estate of the realm, journalists should carry out their duties as watchdogs of the society and ensure the objectivity in their reports.

The Farmer Governor called for the introduction of censorship on social media content to checkmate the spread of fake news and hate speeches.

He appreciated the NUJ for finding him worthy of the award and honour, pointing out that it has set a benchmark for him to do more and that his administration will not rest on its oars in its quest to transform the State.

The leader of the delegation and NUJ National President Dr. Chris Isiguzo said the conferment on the Farmer Governor followed his transformative and developmental strides in the areas of infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, good governance and education among others.

The NUJ National President commended the Farmer Governor for the established cordial relationship between his government and journalists and called for continuous collaboration that will advance the Profession for the benefit of the State.

Also speaking, the NUJ Chairman, Niger State Council, Comrade Abu Nmodu said they were at the government house to also strengthen synergy with the state government.

Bologi Ibrahim

Chief Press Secretary

to the Governor of Niger State

07/03/2024.