NUJ urges Jigawa govt to support farmers, intensify flood prevention measures

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Jigawa State Council, on Thursday in Dutse called on the Jigawa State Government to provide urgent support to farmers across the state ahead of the 2026 rainy season farming activities, while also urging residents and authorities to step up efforts to prevent flooding.

The call was made by the NUJ during its congress held at the union’s State Secretariat in Dutse, where journalists from different chapels gathered to review governance, security, media practice, and public welfare issues affecting the state.

In a communiqué issued at the end of the congress, the union said government support for farmers is needed early enough to ensure smooth preparation for the farming season.

It specifically urged timely distribution of fertilisers, agricultural inputs, and extension services, noting that delays in such interventions often affect productivity and food security.

The NUJ also called for stronger action on flood prevention, asking both government agencies and residents to intensify the clearing of drainages, waterways, and culverts across the state. It said such measures would help reduce the risk of flooding during the rainy season, especially in flood-prone communities.

On security, the congress commended the Jigawa State Government and security agencies for what it described as sustained efforts in maintaining peace and stability across the state.

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However, it stressed the need for closer collaboration between security operatives and communities to address emerging threats, particularly in rural areas where incidents are often underreported or delayed.

The communiqué also highlighted concerns about youth involvement in drug abuse, calling it a growing challenge in the state.

It urged government and security agencies to strengthen enforcement and adopt preventive strategies that focus on awareness and community engagement.

The union further praised the state government for the recent recruitment of staff into the Ministry of Information, describing it as a step toward addressing manpower shortages that have affected public communication and sensitisation efforts.

It noted that inadequate staffing had over time limited the effectiveness of government information dissemination.

In addition, the NUJ called for similar recruitment exercises in other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies facing shortages of Public Relations and Information Officers, arguing that effective communication is key to public understanding of government policies and programmes.

The congress also reaffirmed the commitment of journalists in Jigawa State to ethical and professional reporting, stating that members would continue to adhere to the NUJ code of ethics in their coverage of events and governance issues.

It further appealed to MDAs, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to make use of the NUJ State Secretariat Conference Hall for press conferences and media-related activities.

According to the union, this would not only promote professionalism but also support revenue generation for the council.

The NUJ commended the Jigawa State Government and the State Pilgrims Welfare Board for restoring Hajj seat allocation to journalists after six years of suspension, describing the move as encouraging and inclusive.

It also praised the Ministry of Livestock for the successful organisation of the Kalgwai Fishing Festival in Auyo, noting that the event highlighted both the cultural heritage and economic value of the fisheries sector in the state.

The communiqué also addressed issues of governance and development more broadly, with the union reiterating its role in holding authorities accountable while supporting policies that promote growth and public welfare.

The NUJ State Chairman, Comrade Ismai’la Ibrahim Dutse, reaffirmed the union’s commitment to promoting democracy, accountability and development through responsible journalism.

He said journalists in the state would continue to play their watchdog role while also supporting initiatives that improve the lives of citizens.