By Nworisa Michael
The Kano State Government has launched a two-day capacity-building retreat for online media publishers, organized under the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs. The retreat is taking place in Dutse, Jigawa State, bringing together digital journalists from across the region.
Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, inaugurated the retreat, describing online media practitioners as critical stakeholders in Nigeria’s information ecosystem and key partners in democratic governance.
Comrade Waiya emphasized that the retreat aims to strengthen professionalism, ethical journalism, and responsible use of digital platforms, especially as online reporting continues to shape public opinion and governance discourse. He urged participants to adhere strictly to accuracy, ethics, and legal frameworks, warning that irresponsible digital journalism could undermine public trust.
Highlighting the Kano State Government’s commitment, Comrade Waiya assured that under the leadership of His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, the administration remains devoted to press freedom, democratic values, and the development of journalism practice. He encouraged media practitioners to embrace ICT, artificial intelligence, and modern technologies while maintaining integrity and professionalism in reporting.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kano State Council, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Dederi, praised the government for prioritizing the training and retraining of media personnel, describing the retreat as timely and impactful. Likewise, Comrade Abubakar Dangambo, Chairman of the Online Media Association, expressed appreciation to the government for recognizing online publishers and investing in their professional development.
Other dignitaries present included the Chief Press Secretary to the Kano State Governor, Mustapha Muhammad, the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Ibrahim Garba, and the Chairman of the NUJ, Jigawa State Council, alongside other stakeholders.
The retreat is expected to equip participants with modern skills, ethical orientation, and practical knowledge necessary to enhance responsible online journalism and strengthen democratic governance in Kano State and beyond.