Journalists tackle Governor Bago, Information Minister Over Unfulfilled Promises

Journalists in Niger State have expressed disappointment over the failure of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago and Minister of Information Mohammed Idris to fulfill financial pledges made over a year ago during the launch of the state NUJ Press Week magazine.

At a recent congress of the Niger State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), members were informed that despite multiple follow-ups, the promised donations—₦5 million from Governor Bago and ₦1 million from Minister Idris—remain unredeemed.

The governor’s pledge was made through the Secretary to the State Government, Usman Abubakar, while the minister’s promise was delivered by the Director General of the Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Baba Ndace. However, efforts by the committee to secure the funds have been unsuccessful, leaving journalists frustrated.

Some members criticized the Information Minister, noting that as a media professional himself, his failure to fulfill such a modest pledge reflects poorly on the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. They also lamented the state government’s approach, alleging that journalists covering national dailies have been largely shut out of Government House activities, contradicting the administration’s supposed open-door policy.

The NUJ Chairman, Comrade Abu Nmodu, acknowledged the concerns raised and assured members that he would seek an audience with the governor and minister to address the matter.