The Kaduna State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists(NUJ) has called for strict transparency and proper utilisation of the proposed N19 billion monthly security fund by the 19 Northern States Governors, warning that the money must not be used to “pacify bandits.”
This was contained in a communique issued at the end of it’s monthly meeting in Kaduna, North West Nigeria which also addresses pressing state infrastructure issues and union affairs.
The Congress, attended by past leaders, veterans, and members from all chapels, expressed confidence in the newly appointed Minister of Defence, former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, while urging Northern Governors to establish a “strike force” in strategic areas to contain banditry.
The congress emphasised that the hefty N19bn monthly security levy from the 19 states must be deployed to eliminate insecurity, not negotiate with criminals.
“The Congress observed that the N19 Billion which will be gathered from all the 19 Northern States every month, though on the high side, the governors should therefore adopt proper utilization measures and transparency,” the communique stated.
It further resolved: “The money should not be used to pacify bandits but put in proper use to eliminate the menace.”
On local governance, the NUJ commended the Kaduna State Government for restoring monthly sanitation and for proactive school closures as a security measure.
However, it raised an alarm over non-functional water infrastructure, noting worries that “there is no water flowing on the pipes” despite the installation of new ones at great cost.
The Congress also called on the state government to enforce its development plan and halt ongoing constructions near major roads, specifically citing Ibrahim Yakowa Way in Chikun LGA.
It further urged its members to complement government efforts in the fight against insecurity through responsible reporting.
Regarding internal union matters, the Congress resolved to request the NUJ National Secretariat to immortalize former Governor Colonel Tanko Ayuba for his instrumental role in actualizing the Kaduna NUJ Secretariat in 1984.
It also assured members that the full accreditation of the NUJ International Institute of Journalism was at a final stage, which would aid career progression.
The resolutions from the Congress highlight the NUJ Kaduna Council’s active engagement with both national security strategies and local governance issues, positioning itself as a stakeholder advocating for accountability, practical solutions to insecurity, and infrastructural development in the state and region.
The Congress also deliberated on issues of development of the Council especially the upcoming press week which is scheduled for 13th of December 2025 to feature sporting activities, Chairman’s night, road work, conference, Muslims and Christian prayers in mosques and churches among other activities.
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