As part of activities marking the 38th anniversary of the creation of Katsina State, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Katsina State Chapter, organized a one-day public lecture titled “Democracy and Developmental Journalism: A Case Study of Northern Nigeria.”

The lecture, held in Katsina, brought together media professionals, government officials, security agencies, and academics to reflect on the role of journalism in promoting democracy and development in northern Nigeria.

The Governor of Katsina State, Dr. Dikko Umaru Radda, was represented by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Dr. Bala Salisu Zango. Also in attendance were the Commissioner for Rural Development, Abdul Hamid Ahmad, representatives of key security agencies including the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Customs Service, and the NDLEA, as well as the Grand Patron of NUJ, Professor Sani Abubakar Lugga (Wazirin Ilimin Kasar Hausa), Alhaji Bello Muhammad Kankara (Hakimin Ketare) and other dignitaries.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Bashir Usman Rawan Godiya in his lecture, made a great comparison on traditional and contemporary journalism. He examined the evolution of journalism from conventional reporting to the modern digital era, identifying key challenges and ethical principles that guide the profession.

Dr. Bashir stressed that the primary role of journalists is to “report, analyze, and direct.” He emphasized that as the fourth tier of the government, journalists must maintain objectivity and balance in their reporting. According to him, journalists should not focus solely on the actions of government but must also give voice to the ordinary citizens and grassroots communities.

He further called on government at all levels to support the media sector through capacity building and professional training. This, he said, would enhance transparency, accountability, and responsible journalism.

Speaking on the significance of journalism in a developing nation like Nigeria, Dr. Bashir described the profession as “a bridge that provides a vital link between the people and the government.” He urged journalists to serve all segments of society without bias, ensuring fairness and credibility in their reportage.

In his closing remarks, the Governor, through his representative, Dr. Zango, commended the NUJ Katsina Chapter for organizing the lecture in commemoration of Katsina at 38. He also extended appreciation to the NUJ Chairman, Malam Tukur Hassan Dan Ali, for his leadership and commitment to promoting professionalism among journalists in the state.

The event concluded with renewed calls for collaboration between the media, government, and civil society in advancing democracy and sustainable development in Katsina and across northern Nigeria.