Kaduna NUJ Demands Enhanced Urban Security, Urgent Road Repairs and Inclusive Education Reform

Kaduna NUJ Demands Enhanced Urban Security, Urgent Road Repairs and Inclusive Education Reform

The Kaduna State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has urged the state government to sustain and strengthen its newly established Taskforce on Urban Crime, highlighting the persistent threat of insecurity to residents, journalists, and the local economy.

In a communiqué released after its monthly congress held at the NUJ Secretariat on Monday, the union stressed the need for better equipment and reinforcement of the Taskforce to tackle insecurity hotspots across Kaduna metropolis and vulnerable communities.

The communiqué, signed by Chairman Usman Sani, Secretary Ango Bally, and member Lola Seriki-Idahosa, noted that insecurity continues to alter the daily lives of residents and disrupt business operations due to fear of criminal attacks.

Presided over by Council Chairman Alhaji AbdulGafar Alabelewe, the meeting also called for expedited action on key road projects, pointing out that poor infrastructure is exacerbating both economic and security challenges by cutting off communities and hampering emergency response efforts.

Among the roads listed for urgent intervention were Kabala Costain–Nuhu Aliyu Road (Barnawa), Television Garage–Sabon Tasha, Sabon Tasha–Unguwan Gimbiya–Juji Road, Kakuri–Nasarawa and Kabala West–Hayin Nariya Road.

The union also encouraged Governor Uba Sani to revisit and reinforce the Almajiri and Tsangaya education policies, which are aimed at reducing the number of out-of-school children and street beggars in Kaduna State. It emphasized that poverty, lack of access to education and social marginalization are major contributors to the region’s socioeconomic issues.

The NUJ called for an expansion of school enrollment campaigns and livelihood support initiatives for vulnerable families.

Despite these challenges, the union commended the Kaduna State Government for improving its relationship with the press, describing it as a step in the right direction for transparency and democratic governance. It urged continued collaboration with the media to build on these gains.

The union also congratulated Governor Uba Sani on his national recognition as Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), alongside other honorees including former military governor Colonel Dangiwa Umar (rtd) and Senator Shehu Sani, praising their contributions to democracy and national development.

Furthermore, the journalists applauded the successful hosting of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in June, where several key projects were commissioned to mark the governor’s second year in office. These included a new 300-bed Specialist Hospital in Millennium City, three new Skills Acquisition and Technology Centres in Igabi, Zangon Kataf and Soba, the launch of CNG-powered vehicles and multiple completed road projects.

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In its internal affairs, the Congress established several committees, including an Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, a Press Centre Management Committee, a Credentials Committee to oversee a bye-election for the Treasurer position, and an Expanded Welfare Committee to support members’ well-being.

The NUJ also reminded members to pay their professional dues and check-off fees regularly to facilitate effective union operations at all levels.

Meanwhile, the meeting acknowledged the NUJ National Secretariat’s efforts to secure accreditation for the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) programme from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), alongside its planned affiliation with the University of Maiduguri.

Reaffirming its commitment, the NUJ pledged to uphold ethical journalism, defend press freedom, and support policies that promote development and democracy in Kaduna and Nigeria.