Kaduna Commissioner Seeks NUJ Support to Fight Gender-Based Violence

 

The Kaduna State Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, Hajiya Rabi Salisu, has called for stronger collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to promote inclusivity and combat gender-based violence (GBV) in communities.

She urged journalists to use their platforms to raise awareness, amplify survivors’ voices, and drive social change, emphasising the media’s role in fostering a safer society.

Hajiya Rabi Salisu spoke when she hosted a combined Iftar( breaking of fast ) for members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Kaduna State Chapter and the Joint Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) communities in Kaduna State.

Hajia Salisu said; “the event was aimed at fostering greater collaboration and understanding between the media and the disability community in an inclusive environment.”

According to her, “It promoted inclusivity and diversity, providing a platform for persons with disabilities to share their experiences and perspectives with journalists in an interactive moment during Ramadan.”

The Commissioner urged Journalists to report on inclusive content, especially on disability issues, and promote accurate representation of persons with disabilities in the media.

Hajia Salisu emphasised building strong relationships and partnerships to foster greater collaboration and understanding between the media and the disability community.

Hajia Salisu also encouraged journalists to report on disability issues and promote accurate representation of persons with disabilities in the media.

“The combined Iftar was a resounding success, promoting inclusivity, diversity, understanding, and establishing partnerships and collaborations.

“We look forward to building on this momentum and promoting greater inclusivity and representation of persons with disabilities in the media,” she explained.

The Commissioner expressed gratitude for having the Journalists and others in her residence for the Iftar.

Hajia Salisu said that the Uba Sani led government has given her ministry tremendous support which enabled them to remain active and ensured that they execute their mandate appropriately.

The leadership of the PWD Association Cluster Baba, shared their personal stories and experiences, highlighting the importance of accessibility and inclusivity.

Cluster Baba said the event was unprecedented being the first time people living with special needs were invited to break fast with dignitaries.

He said that “We are grateful for this honour and shall continue to pray for your success. You are a Commissioner who came at a challenging period but was able to unite us and take care of us. You also made history by appointing one of us as a Special Assistant. All the PWDs are happy and proud of you.” 

Abdulgafar Alabelewe, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kaduna State Council, said that the Commissioner, Rabi Salisu has been a close associate of journalists since her active days in the Arida Foundation.

Alabelewe said; “the Commissioner is somebody very known to us for decades, before this appointment..She has a very long history of helping humanity, contributing positively to society.

“Having known her and the humanitarian works over the years, I can confirm that her appointment as a Commissioner was rightly done.”

Alabelewe said that, it was the duty of Journalists, as progressives to continue to support her ministry and the administration of Senator Uba Sani who’s running an inclusive government and building the capacity of human beings.

“All the developmental sectors in Kaduna State can testify to the positive impact of Senator Uba Sani’s government. We will continue to support this government and your ministry in particular, ” he assured.

Alabekewe prayed that the Commissioner will represent Kaduna State at the Federal level in due course.

There were goodwill messages from dignitaries and journalists at the event, all geared towards promoting peace and harmony in the state and Nigeria at large.

 

 

 

Mercy Chukwudiebere