World Press Freedom Day: Kaduna Chief of Staff Emphasizes Open Door Policy for Press
From Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Chief of Staff to the Kaduna State Governor, Sani Liman Kila, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to a robust relationship with the press.
Speaking after being decorated as the Grand Patron of the Kaduna NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel on Friday, Kila emphasized that the government’s doors are always open to members of the press.
Kila acknowledged the significance of the press in a democratic society, stating that “any government that ignores the press does so at its own peril.” He highlighted the long-standing relationship between the state government and the media, dating back to Governor Uba Sani’s days as an activist.
This relationship, he noted, has been maintained over the years, and the government is committed to continuing it.
The Chief of Staff expressed his admiration for the large number of pressmen present at the government house, attributing it to the strong connection between the government and the media.
He assured the press of the government’s continued partnership and support, citing Governor Uba Sani’s media-friendly approach as a key factor.
Kila noted that he has known 75 percent of the members of the press union for over twenty years, and this familiarity has helped to foster a robust relationship.
He also praised the press for their role in holding the government accountable, saying “we have a governor who has known many of you for over two decades, and we are enjoying a robust relationship with the media.”
Earlier, the Chairman of the Chapel, Abdulgafar Alabelewe, explained that the Chief of Staff was chosen as the Grand Patron due to his capacity to carry the load and his contributions to the development of media and practitioners in the state and beyond.
Alabelewe expressed confidence that Kila would continue to support the press in his new capacity, and that his decoration as Grand Patron would further strengthen the relationship between the government and the media.
Other executives present during the decoration included Vice Chairman Maryam Suka, Secretary Muhammad Sabiu, Assistant Secretary Habila Darofai, Treasurer Aisha Gambo, and journalists from other chapels.
