The Kano State Government and the leadership of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) convened on Tuesday evening to discuss and resolve the ongoing impasse between the two parties.
Daily News 24 reports that the meeting took place at the NUJ press centre, with top government officials and Correspondents’ Chapel executives in attendance.
The government’s delegation, led by Commissioner for Information Hon. Halilu Baba Dantiye, expressed a commitment to addressing the issues that led to the disagreement.
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Dantiye conveyed Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s acknowledgment of the crucial role of a free and independent press in a democratic society, assuring journalists of the administration’s readiness to listen to and address their concerns.
He emphasized that the governor was concerned about the situation and had directed immediate discussions for an amicable resolution.
“I want to first convey the goodwill of the governor, who is ready for an amicable resolution of the matter. As a member of the State Executive Council and Commissioner for Information, it is my duty to meet with you on behalf of the government. After our deliberation, I will write a comprehensive report and recommendations to the governor, which will lead to a larger meeting, hopefully with His Excellency, to hear directly from you and take action. I am very pleased with how you received me. The meeting was indeed fruitful, and by God’s grace, we will reach a resolution,” Dantiye stated.
The leadership of the Correspondents’ Chapel, headed by Chairman Aminu Ahmad Garko, appreciated the government’s gesture and reaffirmed their commitment to professional and factual reporting.
Garko expressed optimism about the state government’s willingness to address the concerns of the chapel members, highlighting the importance of the meeting in paving the way for further discussions in the coming days.
“We still maintain our stance not to participate in all government affairs until the issues at stake are resolved amicably,” Garko reiterated.
The meeting is expected to lead to another round of discussions aimed at fully resolving the matter.
