The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Niger has made Governor Mohammed Umaru-Bago its grand patron.

The NUJ national president, Chris Isiguzo, conducted the governor’s investiture on Thursday at the Government House in Minna.

The honour was in recognition of his exemplary leadership qualities, according to NUJ.

Mr Umaru-Bago described journalists’ role as vital to the development of any society, adding that journalists have helped shape democracy in Nigeria through their reportage.

He said that, as the fourth estate of the realm, journalists should carry out their duties as the watchdog of society and ensure objectivity in their reports.

The governor called for the introduction of censorship on social media content to checkmate the spread of fake news and hate speeches. He appreciated the NUJ for finding him worthy of the award and honour, saying that the award had set a benchmark for him to do more.

The governor assured that his administration would not rest on its oars in its quest to transform Niger.

Mr Isiguzo said the investiture followed his transformative and developmental strides in the areas of infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, good governance and education, among others.

The NUJ national president commended the governor for the cordial relationship between his government and journalists and called for continuous collaboration that would advance the profession for Niger’s benefit.

(NAN)