Key Demands: Shuttle Bus and Land Titles
Despite the celebrations, the Chairman utilized the presence of government representatives to make two critical appeals for the council's development:
Alabelewe pointed out that Kaduna is virtually the only council in the Northwest without a functional shuttle bus, which has hindered members from conducting tours of developmental projects.
On the NUJ secretariat complex, the Chairman noted that despite occupying the premises for four decades, the union lacks the necessary legal documentation and urged the state government to grant the C of O to enable the union to carry out further development on the befitting edifice.
Alabelewe maintained that his executive team has not disappointed its members, citing the successful restoration of a positive relationship with the state government and the implementation of welfare schemes, such as the recent distribution of cows to members for the Christmas celebration.
Government Commends Journalists as "Backbone of Discourse"
The State Commissioner for Information and Culture, Malam Ahmed Maiyaki, represented at the event by Malam Yunusa Mohammed Abdullahi, praised the Kaduna NUJ as the "backbone of public discourse in our state". In a speech read on his behalf, the Commissioner emphasized that the relationship between the government and the press is strongest when built on mutual trust.
"Tonight isn’t for press releases or deadlines," the Commissioner remarked. "It is for us to let our hair down". He encouraged journalists to continue writing the state’s story with truth and passion while enjoying the night's festivities.
Recognition and Awards
The evening concluded with an award presentation ceremony. The Council recognized various members and government representatives who have supported the union over the past year.
Chairman Alabelewe expressed hope that these awards would spur the winners to even greater responsibility in their professional duties.
The event was attended by various partners, friends, and members of the press, who gathered to "wine and dine" in a relaxed atmosphere designed to foster the exchange of ideas and professional solidarity.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) Zone A, supported by the leadership of Elder Sunday Aibe, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (Northwest), brought Christmas cheer to some women journalists who are widows.
The presentation took place during the NUJ Kaduna State Council Chairman's Night. Rabi Muhammad Gwadabawa, Vice Chairperson of Zone A, was represented at the event by the Zonal Secretary, Daharatu Ahmed Aliyu.
Hajiya Farida Abubakar, former Chairperson of NAWOJ in Kaduna State and current Executive Director of Radio Services at the Kaduna State Media Corporation (KSMC), presented gift envelopes to eight NAWOJ widows. The support for the initiative came from KSMC, NTA, FRCN, as well as the Correspondents', Information, and NUJ council chapters.
The beneficiaries expressed their deep appreciation to NAWOJ Zone A and CAN Northwest for remembering them and restoring their hope.