Hassan Turaki.
The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, has paid a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Emir of Dutse, His Royal Highness, Alh. Dr. Hamim Nuhu Sanusi, with members of his delegation.
The visit took place ahead of the Union’s annual national conference scheduled to hold in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital.
Speaking during the visit, the Chairman of the Jigawa State Council of the NUJ, Comrade Isma’il Ibrahim Dutse, introduced the delegation to the Emir.
In his remarks, Comrade Yahaya prayed for the repose of the soul of the late Emir of Dutse, Muhammad Nuhu Sanusi, before outlining the purpose of the visit.
He said the National Union of Journalists is seeking for His Royal Highness to accept the role of Patron of the NUJ at the national level.
“We are in Jigawa State to host our annual national conference here in Dutse city,” Yahaya stated.
The NUJ President also expressed appreciation to the Emir and members of the Emirate Council for granting the delegation access to view the historical artifacts in the Dutse Palace.
Responding, the Emir of Dutse, Alh. Dr. Hamim Nuhu Sanusi, commended the leadership of the NUJ for the visit to the historic palace.
The monarch noted that journalism is a risky profession, adding that journalists deserve commendation for their sacrifices in news gathering.
He, however, observed that the profession is facing serious challenges in the digital age where “everyone has become a journalist.”
“And it is you who have the responsibility to provide guidance in order to curb the spread of fake news,” the Emir said.
On security, His Royal Highness assured the Union that Jigawa State remains one of the most peaceful states in the country, and that participants of the NUJ Summit would enjoy a safe and conducive environment.
The visit ended with prayers and exchange of pleasantries.
