By Shafa’atu Suleiman, Sokoto
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sokoto State Chapter, has elected new executive members to steer the affairs of the union for the next three years.
The newly elected members include Usman Muhammad Binji from Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) Sokoto Network Centre, who was elected Chairman, while Nasiru Muhammad Bello from News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) returns for a second term as Secretary of the council.
The election, which was conducted peacefully under the supervision of the Vice President (Zone A) of NUJ, Abdulrazak Bello Kaura, saw Binji emerge victorious with 86 votes, defeating Comrade Surajo Dalhatu Sifawa of Rima Television, who secured 29 votes.
In his inaugural speech, the newly elected chairman pledged to work tirelessly to promote the interests of the union. He affirmed his commitment to upholding the principles of unity, solidarity, advocacy, professionalism, and collective purpose, which the union is built upon.
“I will work towards a more vibrant, inclusive, and effective union,” he said.
Other executive members of the union emerged unopposed in their respective positions. They were presented with Certificates of Return and administered the oath of office shortly after the elections at the NUJ Press Centre on Saturday.
Earlier, in his speech, the outgoing chairman of the NUJ in the state, Dalhatu Abdullahi Safiyal Magori, noted that his tenure, which began on December 22, 2021, had been historic yet challenging. He stated that the records of his accomplishments speak for themselves and offered his unwavering support and best wishes to his successors.
Magori urged the new chairman to lead with courage, serve with integrity, and always remember that the strength of the NUJ lies in the collective will of its members.