In a strong reaffirmation of democratic principles, the Kano State Government has pledged its unwavering commitment to upholding press freedom and ensuring the welfare of working journalists within the state.
Denial of Harassment Allegations
Speaking at a Tea Break session organized by the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Kano, the Director-General of Media and Publicity, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, directly addressed and dismissed claims that journalists are being silenced or harassed under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf's administration. Bature, who also serves as the governor's spokesperson, insisted that the media enjoys ample freedom to perform its constitutional role as the Fourth Estate of the Realm.
He categorically denied allegations from opposition elements that the state government is using the police and the courts to intimidate reporters. "At no point in time has Kano state government under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration, used police or the court of law to harass or threaten any journalist who is performing his duties within the ambit of the law and ethics of the profession," Bature stated emphatically.
Partnerships and Welfare Initiatives
Bature expressed regret that some organizations outside Kano were drawing conclusions based on "falsehood and misinformation concocted by elements of the opposition." He outlined the administration's concrete efforts to support the media, highlighting the provision of seasonal relief materials and various capacity-building initiatives for journalists.
The government is actively exploring partnerships with institutions like the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and other foundations to provide professional training and development opportunities. This commitment to investment in journalists' skills underscores the administration's view of the media as a partner in progress.
Further solidifying this cordial relationship, Bature emphasized the governor's open-door policy, which guarantees journalists access to government information and officials. "We do not discourage constructive criticisms because through that way, the government stands on its feet and improve upon its achievements and progress," he added.
National Recognition and Future Commitments
The administration's pro-media stance has not gone unnoticed. In June 2025, the national body of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) honored Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf with the prestigious ‘Journalist-Friendly Governor’ award. Furthermore, the immediate-past National President of the NUJ, Comrade Chris Isiguzo, personally traveled to Kano to decorate Governor Yusuf as the Grand Patron of the NUJ Kano State Chapter.
As the Special Guest of Honour at the event, Bature commended journalists in Kano for their professional reporting. He assured them that the Yusuf administration will continue to do everything within the law to protect their freedom and welfare. He, however, urged media practitioners to always adhere to the profession's code of ethics and to view the government as a vehicle for delivering democratic dividends, not as an adversary.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Kano State NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, Murtala Adewale, appreciated Bature's presence at the second special edition of the Tea Break session. He described the forum as both a social gathering and a vital platform for fostering dialogue between journalists and key stakeholders.
