Journalists in Niger State have criticized Governor Mohammed Umar Bago and Minister of Information Mohammed Idris for failing to redeem financial pledges made over a year ago during the launch of the NUJ Press Week magazine.
During a recent NUJ Congress, members were informed that despite repeated follow-ups, the governor’s ₦5 million pledge—announced through the Secretary to the State Government, Usman Abubakar—and the minister’s ₦1 million promise—made via the Director General of the Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Baba Ndace—remain unfulfilled.
Frustrated journalists expressed disappointment, particularly with Minister Idris, noting that as a media professional, his reluctance to honor such a modest commitment sends the wrong message about the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Beyond the unfulfilled pledges, concerns were also raised about limited media access to Government House and official events, contradicting the state government’s supposed open-door policy. Journalists warned that shutting out the press is detrimental to democracy and transparency.
In response, NUJ Niger State Chairman, Comrade Abu Nmodu, assured members that he would engage the governor and minister to address their concerns while urging patience.