Election: NAN MD tasks journalists on political reporting

The Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Ali M. Ali, has urged journalists to uphold professionalism and neutrality in reporting political activities ahead of the 2027 election.

Ali said this when he briefed newsmen on the sidelines of a courtesy visit to the Jigawa State Deputy Governor, Aminu Usman.

During the visit on Wednesday in Dutse, he said journalists must be factual, balanced, and objective in their reportage as the credibility of the profession depends on fairness and ethical practice.

“As reporters, our duty is to remain neutral, report all sides, and ensure fairness without prejudice to anyone,” he said.

Ali described journalism as a noble profession that requires discipline and commitment, and warned against partisanship among media practitioners.

“The political season is here, and journalists need to be thorough as professionals,” he said.

He said there is a distinction between mainstream media and social media, and expressed concern over the growing irresponsibility in citizen journalism.

He said: “Citizen journalism has given rise to irresponsibility, especially on social media. 

“That is why the mainstream media must be very circumspect, uphold the ethics of the profession and avoid being news hunters.”

Ali said he was in the state to inspect the NAN facility in Dutse and interact with members of staff of the agency.

He said Jigawa State was increasingly becoming attractive to investors, particularly in agriculture.

He said: “Jigawa is now seen as a destination for investors and agriculturalists. 

“It has a functional airport and enjoys relative peace.”

The NAN helmsman commended the state government for maintaining political stability and harmony in leadership.

He said: “There is coordination between the number one and number two citizens of the state, which is quite commendable.”

Meanwhile, Ali tasked the newly-recruited staff of the agency on dedication, urging them to thrive to success in the discharge of their duties.

He said: “There is no shortcut to success. 

“You cannot take a lift to success.

“You have to patiently climb the steps.”

Ali enjoined them to remain focused, dedicated, and professional in the discharge of their duties.

Aisha Ahmed, the State Correspondent, commended the performance of the newly recruited staff, noting that they were fast learners.

She said the staff had demonstrated commitment to duty, noting that each of them had their stories published in the various daily newspapers.

Ahmed expressed optimism that the young journalists would continue to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the agency and the journalism profession.