The Nigerian union of journalist on the14th December 2019 celebrated it day, giving awards to deserving persons.
The event which holds it team for the year “investigative journalism and the fight against corruption in Nigeria” took place at the nurses’ house in Jalingo Taraba state.
Speaking at the event the national chairman of the union who was represented by Mr. Jovita Shafe the state chairman applauded the initiative of organizing the event which can be recalled to have last taken place about 6-7 years ago.
He further noted that the awards given are not aimed at inciting sentiments, saying that the awards are based on merit. He urged that they should be a good rapport between NUJ members and wished everyone in attendance a happy stay.
While at the event the chairman of Nigeria labor congress Taraba state chapter comrade Peter Gambo expressed gratitude to God and also counted it a privilege been present at the event. He went further to appreciate the NUJ chairman for making the day a reality.
Still speaking at the event, the NLC chairman pointed out that journalist are not people to be toiled with, saying that they propagate the activities of good governance, as such they should be embraced by the government and also their demands should be met so as to create a good and conducive working atmosphere for an effective job to be done. To this end, he called on the governor of the state Arch Darius Ishaku to “take the bull by the horn” and address the issues at hand.
The NLC chairman emphasized professionalism among journalists and stated that all faulting members should be punished so as to maintain the honour and respect the profession has in the public domain.
The chairman concluded by congratulating the awardees saying that for them to be awarded by such a strong union is a proof of significant impacts they have made to the society and also a call for greater works.
Hon Mark Useni Bako while speaking on behalf of the state NUJ chairman said that it has been a long time that such an event has taken place he therefor applauded the effort of the NUJ chairman and his team. He went further emphasizing that the awards are based on merit. The chairman expressed dismay toward the recent condition of the press center and on this note appealed for funds to help erect a befitting press center for the state. He ended up by congratulating all the nominees.
Few amongthe nominees are: Arch. Darius Ishaku as the Taraba man of the year, Rt Hon Abel Peter Diah as the legislator of the year , Chief David Sabo Kyente as the icon of human development , chief G.T kataps as the political par excellence, among others.
Also at the events donations were made by dignitaries and bodies among which are; from the Chief launcher 250,000, 500,000 from Hon Mark Bako Useni, 500,000 from Sen. Emmanuel Bwacha among others.
The event had in attendance, Chief Sabo Kyente, Hon Mark Bako Useni , Hon Peter Gambo among other dignitaries. Speaking on behalf of the nominees , Chief David Kyente said that at their own end they will not relent but ensure that the needful is done to attain the set goals.
The NUJ chairman Mr. Jovita Shafe ensured that all the donations made will be utilized to achieve the target goal. Also giving the closing remark on behalf of the governor of the state, the NUJ chairman appreciated everyone in attendance and wished them well in all endeavors.
