By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano
Kano state government has promised to run an open-door policy in its bid to ensure even distribution of democratic dividends across the nooks and crannies of the state.
The state government also appealed to journalists and media organizations to keep adhering to the ethical standards guiding the noble profession so as to maintain robust relationships with the government and its ministries, agencies, and parastatals.
The State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, who stated this also pledged his commitment to transforming information dissemination as part of the Ministry’s mandate to ensure good governance.
He made this statement during a dinner organized by the Renaissance Coalition in honor of his honor and his counterpart, the Commissioner of the Ministry of Public Procurement, Projects Monitoring, and Evaluation.
Comrade Waiya emphasized the importance of publicizing the developmental projects and people-centered policies being implemented by the current administration to enhance the living standards of citizens.
He assured attendees that his Ministry would actively collaborate with members of the Renaissance Coalition, recognizing them as a vital force in supporting government success and advancing the state’s progress.
The Commissioner reiterated his commitment to adopting an open-door policy, encouraging public input to advise and support the government in implementing its programs.
He also expressed gratitude to the Renaissance Coalition for organizing the event to celebrate their appointments as Commissioners.
Speaking at the dinner, the Commissioner for Public Procurement, Projects Monitoring, and Evaluation, Comrade Nura Iro Ma’aji Sumaila highlighted the role of civil society organizations in fostering democracy and good governance.
He pledged to uphold accountability and transparency in supporting the state government and thanked the organizers for the honor bestowed on them.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Renaissance Coalition, who is also a former Special Assistant to the president on political Affairs, Abdurrahman Baff a Yola stated that the dinner was held to honor and congratulate the newly appointed Commissioners, who are esteemed members of the Coalition.
He described their appointments as well-deserved, citing their capacity, hard work, competence, and extensive experience.
“Our organization is focused on the overall development of the North, transcending differences in opinions or politics. It comprises businessmen, scholars, and politicians dedicated to progress,” Baffa Yola said.
He urged the newly appointed Commissioners to remain dedicated to their responsibilities, highlighting that they are not only ambassadors of the Renaissance Coalition but also representatives of platforms advocating democracy and good governance.
Waiya, has also called on media organizations to strictly adhere to the ethics of journalism. He emphasized that this is crucial for ensuring professionalism and preventing the misuse of media platforms.
The Commissioner made this appeal while receiving members of the Renaissance Coalition, who paid him a courtesy visit in his office.
Comrade Waiya reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to collaborating with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to sensitize media organizations on responsible content development.
He also stressed the need for a robust framework to guide political commentators, particularly the Sojojin Baka (verbal warriors), in making constructive and responsible contributions during radio political programs.
The Commissioner revealed plans to revive the Gautan Baka platform, a strategic initiative aimed at promoting responsible journalism and ensuring that media outlets are not used to ridicule or tarnish the reputation of individuals, especially those with integrity.
Waiya appealed to Kano elders and residents in major cities such as Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt to contribute to the progress and development of the state.
The Chairman of the Renaissance Coalition, Baffa Yola, a former Special Assistant to the President on Political Affairs, congratulated Comrade Waiya on his appointment.
He commended Governor Abba Yusuf for his visionary leadership in appointing someone with proven excellence, resilience, and dedication to public service.
Baffa Yola expressed concern over the increasing use of unguarded utterances by some politicians on media platforms, warning against their potential to incite chaos or damage the reputation of respected personalities.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism and ensuring that media programs educate, enlighten, and entertain the public responsibly.
He prayed for Almighty Allah’s guidance for the Commissioner to achieve a successful tenure and encouraged him to continue his efforts to improve media standards in Kano State.