By Khalid Idris Doya
The State Executive Council (SEC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bauchi State Council, has commended its immediate past chairman, Comrade Umar Sa’idu, for his leadership and contributions to the development of the union during his six-year tenure.
The commendation was made during the first SEC meeting of the newly elected leadership, held at the NUJ Press Centre in Bauchi.
Members of the council particularly acknowledged Sa’idu’s efforts in securing the approval of Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, for the ongoing remodelling of the NUJ Secretariat.
Speaking during the formal handover, Umar Sa’idu disclosed that he left nearly N2 million in the union’s coffers, compared with the N14,000 he inherited when he assumed office in 2020.
He said his administration had planned a colourful handover ceremony, which he described as the first of its kind in the history of the NUJ Bauchi State Council.
According to him, the handover documents included two large bags containing the union’s records and documents, two Peugeot 406 cars, two Hummer buses and other properties belonging to the council.
The former chairman also expressed appreciation to the Bauchi State Government for undertaking the remodelling of the NUJ Press Centre, describing the project as the outcome of six years of sustained efforts by his administration.
He explained that the project included shops and a 500-seat hall designed to improve the council’s revenue base and enhance its capacity to meet the needs of members.
Sa’idu, however, expressed concern over calls by some union members for an investigation into the contract, reportedly following the outcome of the recently concluded NUJ Bauchi State Council election.
He argued that NUJ members were not involved in the contract award process or the determination of the modalities for its implementation.
He cautioned members against actions that could undermine the union’s credibility or create unnecessary tension between the NUJ and the state government, which he said solely financed the project.
The former chairman urged members to separate personal grievances from the affairs of the union and avoid actions capable of damaging the NUJ’s reputation.
He emphasised that every member had the right to support and vote for a candidate of their choice during elections, but stressed that political differences should be managed with mutual respect and dignity.
According to him, the union is bigger than any individual, and members should prioritise its collective interests above personal differences.
He added that members seeking clarification on any issue could approach the current leadership for further information.
Sa’idu also assured members that he would continue to contribute ideas, advice and other initiatives aimed at advancing the union and improving the welfare of journalists in the state.
In his remarks, the newly elected NUJ Bauchi State Council Chairman, Comrade Isah Garba Gadau, thanked members for the confidence reposed in the new leadership and pledged to work towards moving the union forward.
Gadau also commended his predecessor for his dedication, commitment and contributions to the development of the council during his tenure.
He assured SEC members that his administration would remain open to constructive criticism, advice and suggestions capable of strengthening the union.
The chairman urged members to bring forward issues requiring attention and discussion rather than withholding concerns that could affect the effective administration of the council.
Highlights of the meeting included updates on the remodelling of the NUJ Secretariat, the second-phase report of the Auction Committee, and a petition submitted by the Ahmad/Muazu Campaign Council concerning the recently concluded NUJ Bauchi State Council election.
The meeting also considered condolence and sympathy visits to members, among other matters.
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