Kano State Government has reiterated its commitment to the development of journalism and the protection of press freedom as it hosted a two-day retreat for online newspapers in Dutse, Jigawa State.
Speaking at the opening ceremony on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, described the retreat as a historic milestone, being the first of its kind for the Kano Online Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
Comrade Waiya said the retreat, organized and sponsored by the Kano State Government through the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs, underscored the administration’s recognition of the growing role of digital journalism in the media landscape.
He noted that the initiative reflected the belief of the government in the potential and contributions of online journalists to information dissemination and democratic governance in the state.
The commissioner expressed profound appreciation to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for approving and funding the training, describing the gesture as a demonstration of visionary leadership and strong commitment to professional journalism practice.
According to him, the governor’s consistent support for manpower development across sectors has continued to strengthen institutional capacity in the state.
Addressing participants, Comrade Waiya reminded online journalists that they represent the future of journalism and therefore must uphold ethical values, professionalism, and accuracy in news gathering and reporting.
He cautioned against sensationalism and the “quick-breaking news syndrome,” stressing that online journalism must be distinguished from unregulated social media activity by adherence to legal and ethical standards.
Comrade Waiay emphasized that digital journalism has come to stay and should be recognized as a critical component of journalism practice in Nigeria.
He also highlighted the need for self-development and competitiveness in the face of rapid global technological advancements, including artificial intelligence.
The Commissioner further noted that building a credible media brand at local, national, and global levels depends on integrity, honesty, and consistency. He urged online publishers to emulate those who have earned recognition through dedication and professionalism.
Comrade Waiya congratulated the NUJ Kano State Council and other stakeholders for the successful establishment of the Kano Online Chapel, urging its leadership to focus on capacity building, unity, and teamwork to make the chapel a model for other states.
He assured participants of the Kano State Government’s continued support for journalism development and press freedom, revealing that the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs is advocating for the establishment of a state Freedom of Information law in line with the federal FOI Act.
While calling on journalists to sustain responsible journalism, especially given Kano’s cosmopolitan and politically sensitive nature, the commissioner stressed that ethical standards must never be compromised.
He then welcomed participants to the retreat and formally declaring the retreat open.
