NUJ Bauchi SEC commends Umar Sa’idu for his contributions to the union’s development
By Aliyu Adamu Faggo
The Bauchi State Executive Council (SEC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bauchi State, has commended its immediate past chairman, Comrade Umar Sa’idu, for his exemplary leadership and contributions to the growth and development of the union.
The commendation was made during the first SEC meeting of the newly elected leadership, held at the NUJ Press Centre in Bauchi, where members acknowledged Sa’idu’s efforts in securing government approval for the ongoing remodelling of the union’s secretariat.
During the formal handover, Comrade Umar Sa’idu disclosed that he was leaving nearly ₦2 million in the union’s coffers, compared with the ₦14,000 he inherited upon assuming office in 2020.
He said his administration had planned a colourful handover ceremony, which he described as the first of its kind in the history of the NUJ Bauchi State Council.
The former chairman explained that the handover included two large bags containing the union’s records and documents, two Peugeot 406 cars, two Hummer buses and other properties belonging to the council.
Comrade Umar Sa’idu also expressed appreciation to the Bauchi State Government for financing the remodelling of the NUJ Press Centre, describing the project as the result of six years of sustained efforts by his administration.
He explained that the project included shops and a 500-seat hall designed to improve the council’s revenue base and enhance its capacity to meet the needs of members.
However, the former chairman expressed concern over calls by some union members for an investigation into the contract, reportedly arising from dissatisfaction with the outcome of the recently concluded council election.
He argued that NUJ members were not directly involved in the contract award process or the determination of its implementation arrangements, cautioning against actions that could undermine the union’s credibility or create unnecessary friction between the union and the state government.
Comrade Umar Sa’idu urged members to separate personal grievances from union affairs and avoid conduct capable of damaging the reputation of the NUJ, stressing that the remodelling project was financed by the state government.
He maintained that members had the right to support and vote for candidates of their choice but advised them to manage political differences with mutual respect and dignity, emphasising that the union was greater than any individual.
He further encouraged members seeking clarification on any issue to approach the current council leadership, while assuring them of his continued support through initiatives, advice and other contributions aimed at advancing the union and improving members’ welfare.
In his remarks, the newly elected NUJ Bauchi State Council Chairman, Comrade Isah Garba Gadau, thanked members for the confidence reposed in the new leadership and pledged to work towards the continued growth and development of the union.
Isa Gadau also commended Sa’idu for his dedication, commitment and contributions during his tenure, assuring SEC members that his administration would remain open to constructive criticism and advice.
He urged members to bring forward issues requiring attention and discussion rather than withholding concerns that could affect the effective administration of the council.
Highlights of the meeting included updates on the remodelling of the NUJ Secretariat, the second-phase report of the Auction Committee, consideration of a petition submitted by the Ahmad/Muazu Campaign Council concerning the recently concluded NUJ Bauchi State Council election, and plans for condolence and sympathy visits to members, among other matters.
