By Khalid Idris Doya
The Bauchi Field Office of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has commended journalists in Bauchi State for their discipline and professionalism in carrying out their responsibilities.
The UN agency also praised the cordial and professional relationship between UNICEF and media practitioners in the state, describing it as healthy and beneficial to the wellbeing of women and children.
The Chief of Field Office, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, made the commendation during a condolence visit to the Secretariat of the Bauchi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) yesterday over the recent death of two journalists who lost their lives in a road accident while on a national assignment.
She noted that journalists in the state have demonstrated exceptional professionalism in their work.
Dr. Rafique said that since her arrival in the country and her assignment to the Bauchi Field Office, the level of collaboration between UNICEF and journalists in Bauchi has been remarkable.
She described the media as a critical pillar in society, noting that journalists have the power to shape public opinion and influence positive change.
According to her, journalists can play a vital role in addressing harmful practices while promoting values and initiatives that protect and advance the rights and wellbeing of women and children.
Responding, the Chairman of the Bauchi State Council of the NUJ, Comrade Umar Sa'idu, expressed appreciation to Dr. Rafique and her team for the visit, describing it as a sign of strong partnership and solidarity.
He explained that members of the union were together during the incident and witnessed the circumstances that led to the crash.
According to him, although the union lost two members, the situation could have been more devastating. "We thank God that the casualties were limited. Had the vehicle caught fire, the tragedy could have been far worse," he said.
The NUJ chairman also appreciated the support provided by the Bauchi State Government and the North East Development Commission (NEDC), particularly in ensuring that injured journalists received prompt medical attention.
He added that all those who sustained injuries in the accident have now been discharged from the hospital and are continuing their recovery at home.
Sa'idu further acknowledged the various capacity-building trainings organised by UNICEF for journalists in the state and appealed for more specialised training to enhance professional skills in different areas of journalism.
He also commended UNICEF officials, including communication specialists who have supported media engagement and strengthened the partnership between the organisation and journalists in Bauchi State.
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