For decades, journalists in Borno State have shaped public discourse, strengthened democracy, and informed citizens.
But many now face financial and professional challenges after years of service.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has stepped in to support them.
During the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Borno State Chapter’s 2025 Triennial Delegates’ Conference on Tuesday in Maiduguri, Zulum donated N2.5m to the League of Veterans, a group of retired journalists who served in the state for several decades.
The governor, represented by his spokesman Dauda Iliya, said the donation was a gesture of appreciation for their contributions to the state’s development.
He also announced a separate donation of N1.5m to delegates who attended the conference.
Zulum stressed the importance of free speech and press freedom in building a democratic society, assuring that his administration would continue to support journalism and media activities in Borno.
“Our government remains steadfast in promoting press freedom and supporting journalists’ work across the state,” he said.
“We urge members of the press to remain committed to the fight against fake news and misinformation.”
He congratulated the newly elected NUJ executives and encouraged them to uphold professionalism as they lead the union and nurture journalism in Borno.
Speaking to reporters after the event, Iliya revealed that the state government has set up a committee focused on capacity development for journalists.
“The committee is already working on training and retraining media professionals, especially those working in state-owned media platforms,” he said.
The initiative, according to the government, is part of a broader plan to strengthen journalism and enhance its role in promoting transparency and accountability in the state.
