The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sokoto State Council, has called on media practitioners to remain committed to the core principles of accuracy, balance, fairness and responsibility in the discharge of their professional duties.
The Chairman of the Council, Usman Mohammed Binji, made the call on Saturday during the NUJ Congress held in Sokoto, where he stressed the need for journalists to promote unity, peace and mutual understanding through responsible reportage.
Addressing members of the union, Binji described the Congress as more than a routine statutory meeting, noting that it serves as a platform for professional reflection, reawakening and engagement on issues affecting society and the media profession.
He said the growing volume of information in the digital age has increased the responsibility of journalists as custodians of truth and credibility.
“The integrity of journalism rests upon the pillars of accuracy, balance, fairness and responsibility. In a plural and diverse society such as ours, our reportage must consistently promote unity, peace and mutual understanding,” he said.
The NUJ chairman also highlighted the importance of the lecture presented during the Congress, titled “The Role of Zakat and Waqf in Poverty Alleviation and Humanitarian Service: The Responsibility of the Media.”
According to him, the theme addresses the persistent challenge of poverty and social inequality while drawing attention to the role of Islamic social finance instruments such as zakat and waqf in supporting social welfare, wealth redistribution and community development.
Binji said journalists have a responsibility beyond reporting events, adding that the media must provide context, deepen public understanding and highlight initiatives that advance human dignity and social progress.
“As practitioners of the media, our duty extends beyond mere reportage. We are called upon to provide context, deepen public understanding, and highlight initiatives that promote human dignity and social progress,” he stated.
He expressed confidence that the lecture, delivered by the Chairman of the Sokoto State Zakat and Endowment (Waqf) Agency, , would enhance journalists’ understanding of the impact and relevance of zakat and waqf institutions.
The NUJ chairman further urged media professionals to develop reports, features, radio and television programmes that encourage governments, businesses and individuals to strengthen social welfare and humanitarian services in their communities.
Binji also commended for his support to journalists in the state, particularly his approval of vehicles for the NUJ Sokoto State Council announced during a special Iftar at the Government House ahead of the 2026 Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
He thanked members of the union for their commitment and support, expressing optimism that the Congress would achieve its objectives of promoting professional excellence and constructive engagement among journalists in the state.
