Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Malam Muhammad Bello on Thursday charged members of the fourth estate of the realm to expose those working against the government.
Bello gave this charge at the official commissioning of the secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalist (NUJ).
He tasked journalists to always engage in diligent reportage of events and happenings around them in accordance with their mandate and responsibility to society as the watchdog of the society.
The minister was represented by the Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Umar Jibrin.
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He said ” That Abuja today stands as one of the most beautiful capital cities and the symbol of Nigeria’s oneness is a testament to the dreams of our founders.
“The media has a huge role to play in this quest by engaging in diligent reportage of events and truly being the watchdog of society. It is essential that you dig deep to expose negative elements working against our collective efforts of building not just the FCT but indeed Nigeria of our dreams.
“I want to use this opportunity, therefore, to stress that we in the FCTA appreciate your efforts in keeping residents informed of events around the territory as well as holding the government to account on its responsibilities to the people.
“It is, therefore, our fervent hope that you will take care of this beautiful edifice which I dare say is one of the best NUJ Secretariats across Nigeria and utilise it effectively so that it stands out as a place of professionalism, excellence and symbol of truth, unity and strength of our country”.
Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ Abuja FCT Council, Emmanuel Ogbeche commended the FCT Minister adding that: “This event has been 28 years in the making, and it has pleased God that the #FRESH START Team which I lead as Chairman, should wear the badge of honour.
“Mr Minister, Sir, all of these will not have happened if were not for your policy of seeing government as a continuum, and we are grateful.
“For long, it seemed as if the NUJ FCT was a castaway despite its pride of place as the Federal Capital City Council. Today, all of that has changed given that over the past few weeks, those who have had cause to visit this complex, have remarked of the conducive environment and the respect the secretariat has brought not only to journalists but also the FCT administration.
“Going forward, Sir, while we appreciate the paucity of funds in the FCTA and in general, we appeal that the NUJ be considered for a monthly grant as is done for the National Council of Women Society and other similar bodies. This will go a long way in enabling the council meet up with some of its obligations”.
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