By Aliyu Usman | Birnin Kebbi | April 10, 2025
Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Nasir Idris, has approved the hosting of the Arewa Broadcast Media Practitioners Forum’s National Summit in the state, reinforcing his growing support for media development and press freedom in Nigeria.
The approval came during a courtesy visit by the Forum’s Executive Committee, led by its Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Umar Yelwa (Ajiyan Yauri), to the Governor at the Kebbi Governor’s Lodge in Abuja on Thursday.
The summit, which is scheduled to hold in Kebbi State, comes just two months after the governor hosted the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), further cementing his administration’s media-friendly reputation.
“Media Is Key to Democratic Growth” — Gov. Idris
Governor Idris emphasized that the media, as the fourth estate of the realm, remains a pivotal stakeholder in the advancement and sustainability of democracy.
“My decision to approve the summit is driven by my conviction that the media plays a patriotic role in shaping the socio-economic and political development of our country,” he said.
He noted that the successes recorded by his administration could only be validated or challenged through balanced reportage and critical analysis at all levels.
On the secret behind the accomplishments of his government so far, the governor highlighted judicious resource management, transparency, accountability, stakeholder engagement, and the prioritization of developmental projects.
He disclosed that sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and economic empowerment have been receiving focused attention, with measurable results.
In a key announcement, the Governor revealed plans to launch a comprehensive economic empowerment programme as part of the celebration of his second anniversary in office, scheduled for next month.
“This improved programme will expand access to economic opportunities across multiple sectors and increase the number of beneficiaries significantly,” he added.
Forum Applauds Kebbi’s Media-Friendliness
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Forum, Alhaji Abdullahi Umar Yelwa, said the courtesy call was prompted by the commendable developmental achievements recorded under Governor Idris’ administration.
“Your Excellency, it is against this background that we humbly request the inclusion of our national summit in the lineup of events marking your second year in office,” he stated.
Yelwa explained that the Forum comprises proprietors of over 100 licensed Radio and Television stations in Northern Nigeria, bureau chiefs of international media outlets, veteran columnists, and renowned public affairs analysts.
He expressed optimism that hosting the summit in Kebbi would give members an opportunity to amplify the state’s progress through their broadcast platforms and further strengthen collaboration between the government and media stakeholders.
Dignitaries Present
The visit was witnessed by top government functionaries, including the Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Hon. Muhammad Usman Ankwe, the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Yakubu Bala Tafida, and the Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Alhaji Abdullahi Idris (Saudakin Zuru).
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