Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to upholding press freedom and promoting the welfare of journalists in the state.
The Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House, Kano, Malam Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, gave the assurance on Tuesday during a Tea Break session organised by the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Kano.
Dawakin-Tofa said the governor remained one of the most media-friendly leaders in the country, as attested by various awards conferred on him by media organisations.
“Contrary to allegations of media harassment in Kano, Governor Yusuf has never used the police or courts to intimidate or threaten any journalist performing his duties within the law and the ethics of the profession,” he said.
He dismissed insinuations that journalists in the state were being harassed, describing such reports as falsehoods spread by opposition elements to discredit the administration.
The media aide said the governor would continue to support journalists through welfare packages, seasonal relief materials, and capacity-building initiatives to enhance professionalism.
According to him, the administration is exploring partnerships with agencies such as the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and other foundations to organise training and professional development programmes for journalists.
“It is on record that in recognition of his support for the media, the NUJ national body honoured Governor Yusuf with the ‘Journalist-Friendly Governor’ award in June 2025.
“Also, the immediate past NUJ National President, Comrade Chris Isiguzo, decorated the governor as the Grand Patron of the NUJ Kano State Council during an official visit to the state,” he added.
Dawakin-Tofa noted that Yusuf’s open-door policy encourages constructive engagement with journalists, whom he described as partners in progress.
He said the administration had ensured unrestricted access to government information and officials to promote transparency and accountability.
He urged journalists to adhere to the ethics of their profession and view the government as a partner in driving democratic dividends to the people.