New Media Journalists have been described as critical stakeholders in the fight against, fake news, disinformation and misinformation.
The Office in-charge, Open Source Intelligence Department (DSS) Kano Command, Usman Muhammad made the assertion today in Kano during the swearing-in in ceremony of Association of Kano Online Journalists which took place at the NUJ Press Centre Kano.
The Assistant Director, who represented the State Director, Alhassan Indasu, said, without Online Journalists, even services like the DSS won’t deliver as expected.
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According to him, the Association will also help a great deal in combating fake news and positive perception management of the public and as such appeal to the new excos for their support while assuring them of every support needed.
In his remarks, the Honourable Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Kano State, Halilu Baba Dantiye MNI who was represented by the Director of Special Service, Kano State Ministry of Information, Mal. Aminu Yassar said, the Commissioner who was attending to another public function with the Governor deemed it worthy to be part of the event considering the contributions of the association to the state government.
He thanked members of the association for their support to the state government and called for more and better projection of government policies and programmes as it concerns the people and state at large.
He assured the Association of continued support and urge other members of the same profession to emulate ASKOJ in ensuring sanity in the profession.
Furthermore, the Director General of Media and Publicity to Governor Abba Kabir, Sanusi Bature applauded ASKOJ for their immense contributions to the state government and the society at large.
He said, their role in timely dissemination of positive information about the Government cannot be overemphasized.
The DG, represented by the Director, Public Enlightenment, Kano State Government House, Aliyu Yusu wished the new excos success and pledged government’s support in their field of endeavour.
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While admonishing the Officials of the Association, Barr. Kabir Yusuf urged them to be faithful to the constitution of the group adding that the oath which they have taken must be respected and taken seriously.
Yusuf emphasised that any member who goes against the oath would be queried and appropriate disciplinary measures would be meted according to the constitution.
In his goodwill message, the Public Relation Officer, Nigeria Customs Service Training College, Kano, Isa Danbaba wished ASKOJ progress and a successful tenure for the new executive.
“On behalf of my Commandant and the National PRO, we wish you a successful tenure. You have been our partners and we hope the tempo of cooperation will be sustained”.
Other dignitaries at the event include representative of Kano/Jigawa Customs, Triumph News Paper, and other Correspondents and Media Houses within the State.