By PETER NOSAKHARE, Kaduna

Ahead of the National Delegates Conference/Congress of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) coming up later in the month in Owerri, Imo State, Senator Shehu Sani at the flag-off of the Kaduna GMP campaign at the NUJ Secretariat, Monday, pledged support for Garba Muhammad who is contesting for the position of National President. He also called on delegates from the state for the election to do same and ensure that the state takes the union to greater heights with its member at the helms of affairs.

Represented by Mohammed Suleiman, Comrade Sani while lauding the leadership abilities of Muhammad added that it is important that the candidate from the state becomes president of NUJ going by the role the council has played in the practice of the profession in time past.

Reacting to the statement of the aspirant to promote security of members of the profession by pushing and ensuring that after doing their jobs laws are put in place to protect the lives and properties of journalists.

“I recall that there was a time at a conference at NUJ when journalists were attacked and some injured. I prompted me to push for significant of the Freedom of Information Bill.

“Kaduna is like Lagos in terms of journalism and for decades, the state has remained at the forefront of the profession in northern Nigeria.”

On why he is seeking for Garba Muhammad, Managing Director, MD, KSMC Ahmed Maiyaki, said he has known the aspirant for years and believe that as national leader of the NUJ the interests and welfare of members will be paramount while also encouraging the promotion of professionalism in the practice.

“I know how he helped the family of one of our colleagues after he died.

“He helped the family to source for refund of a Hajj seat, which money got stolen in the custody of late Sahabi in his car boot.

“He is still helping the family today and for this and more I believe members will be better for it”, the MD stated.