The Director-General of Media and Publicity to the Kano State Governor, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, has reiterated that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf remains firmly committed to protecting press freedom and improving the welfare of working journalists in the state.
Dawakin-Tofa made this known during a Tea Break Session organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Correspondents’ Chapel, Kano, where he dismissed allegations of media harassment under the present administration.
He described Governor Yusuf as “the most media-friendly governor in Nigeria”, citing several awards and recognitions conferred on him for supporting journalists and upholding transparency in governance.
“At no point in time has the Kano State Government under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf used the police or the courts to harass or threaten any journalist performing his duties within the law and ethics of the profession,” Dawakin-Tofa stated.
He said some of the claims being circulated by opposition elements were baseless and aimed at tarnishing the image of the government through misinformation.
The DG emphasized that the Yusuf administration operates an open-door policy that encourages constructive engagement with journalists, stressing that constructive criticism helps the government to “stand on its feet and improve on its achievements.”
According to him, the state government continues to support media professionals through seasonal relief packages and capacity-building initiatives designed to enhance their skills and professional development.
Dawakin-Tofa disclosed that the government is exploring partnerships with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and other organizations to provide ICT training for journalists, ensuring they stay competitive in the digital era.
He recalled that in recognition of his support for the media, the NUJ National Bodyconferred the “Journalist-Friendly Governor Award”on Governor Yusuf in June 2025, while the immediate past NUJ National President, Comrade Chris Isiguzo, personally decorated him as the Grand Patron of the NUJ, Kano State Chapter.
He further assured that the present administration will continue to guarantee access to government information and officials to promote transparency, accountability, and responsible journalism.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, Murtala Adewale, commended the Governor’s spokesperson for participating in the session, describing the Tea Break initiative as a platform for journalists, politicians, and corporate leaders to share ideas in an informal atmosphere.
“This is not just a social gathering, but a space for dialogue and collaboration between the media and key stakeholders,” Adewale said.