By Suleiman Anyalewechi
In a rare,but commendable display of the spirit of camaraderie, the Kebbi State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists has feted the families of about 18 of its fallen colleagues with food items and cash gifts to ameliorate the prevailing harsh economic situation in the country.
At the official presentation of the relief materials comprising a 25kg bag of rice and #15 000 each to the beneficiaries, in Birnin Kebbi on Monday March 1 2024 ,Kebbi State NUJ council Acting Chairman Alhaji Garba Muhammad – Yelda noted that though a yearly ritual for some time now,this year’s intervention remains unique and auspicious going by the hard economic situation in the country.
He emphasized that it is the NUJ’s modest way of showing commitment to the welfare of the families of departed working journalists in the state .
“We are here to once again observe an annual ritual by the Kebbi State council of the NUJ, to show love to those who lost their loved ones in the course of serving humanity” the Acting Chairman stated
Alhaji Muhammad- Yelda while calling on journalists and other public spirited individuals in the society to assist the families of departed professional colleagues,through visits and donations to their families particularly during trying periods ,said that the decision to donate the items was informed by the need to support the beneficiaries at this critical moment in the life of most Nigerians.
The Kebbi NUJ Acting Chairman announced that the gesture was secured from some corporate entities and individuals,.
He particularly appreciated Gaanou Farms LTD ,Rilwanu Usman Zagga,the Engineer In-Charge of the Federal Road Maintenance Agency FERMA in Kebbi State ,as well as Labana Rice Mill and others .
Alhaji Ahmed Idris ,the Media aide to the Kebbi state Governor ,while describing the NUJ gesture as a Godly deed ,particularly at this period of Ramadan ,noted that it will go a long way in cushioning the hardship being faced by the families of the deceased journalists in the state .
” This gesture is not only highly commendable ,but also encouraging .We have nothing to say ,but to thank you for this initiative.” Ahmed Idris said.
