Sultan identifies with Journalists, says ‘together, we strive to promote stability, comfort for all’
*Urges focus on unity, avoidance of divisive reporting *NUJ TO SULTAN: 'We acknowledge your dedication to national unity, peaceful coexistence among Nigerians'
By KEMI KASUMU
He further urged journalists to uphold the truth in their reporting and emphasised that leadership by example is crucial, reminding them that “charity begins at home.”
The Sultan of Sokoto Caliphate and Leader the Muslim Ummah of Nigeria, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has tasked Journalists how to participate in the project of ensuring peaceful coexistence among people of various religious and ethnic backgrounds in the country.
Prerequisite for successfully taking part in the patriotic assignment, the Sultan said, was for the journalism professionals to prioritise positive news and avoid reports that could undermine societal harmony.
The Co-President of World Religions for Peace, New York Headquarters, made this clarion call while receiving the newly elected leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sokoto State Council, at his palace, on Tuesday February 4, 2025.
The Sultan, who emphasised the importance of responsible journalism in maintaining peace and unity, cautioned against an excessive focus on negative news, noting that such reporting could disrupt the peaceful coexistence that Nigerians currently enjoy.
“As journalists, you must remain committed to the ethics of your profession and work towards fostering peace and unity in society,” he stated.
The Sultan described journalists as partners in nation-building, adding that, “I see myself as one of you. Together, we are striving to create an environment that promotes stability and comfort for all.”
He further urged journalists to uphold the truth in their reporting and emphasised that leadership by example is crucial, reminding them that “charity begins at home.”
Congratulating the newly elected NUJ executives, Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar assured them of the Sultanate Council’s continued support in their efforts to promote peace and social harmony.
“We are committed to supporting your success because it aligns with our collective goal of a peaceful society,” he added.
In response, NUJ Chairman, Mr Usman Binji, praised the Sultan’s dedication to national unity and peaceful coexistence.
He outlined the council’s plans to enhance journalists’ skills in Sokoto through training workshops and seminars on social media usage and intelligence gathering.
Binji also expressed appreciation for the Sultan’s reception of the NUJ leadership and reaffirmed the union’s commitment to upholding ethical journalism in promoting peace and unity.
