The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kebbi State Council, has continued its decade-long tradition of providing succour to the families of its deceased members, distributing food items and financial assistance in a poignant ceremony held on March 24, 2025.

Amidst emotional scenes at the Kebbi State Television premises, the NUJ distributed 22 bags of 25 kg rice and a substantial sum of approximately one million naira to the bereaved families. 

Additionally, each of the six NUJ chapels received two bags of 15 kg rice and ₦80,000 as part of the Ramadan and Sallah support package.

Kebbi State Commissioner for Information and Culture, Hon. Yakubu Ahmed Birnin Kebbi, lauded the NUJ’s enduring commitment, now in its tenth year.

“When you talk about the welfare and development of journalists, it brings me great joy,” he said, pledging the state government’s support for future editions.

“We will step in to support and expand this programme.”

He urged the union to engage both governmental and non-governmental organisations to broaden the initiative’s reach, noting its alignment with Governor Nasir Idris’s palliative distribution efforts. 

“This initiative mirrors the governor’s commitment to alleviating hardship,” he stated.

Malam Yahaya Sarki, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, echoed these sentiments, commending the NUJ for its humanitarian efforts. 

“This reflects the compassionate spirit of Governor Nasir Idris’s administration,” he said, pledging his personal support for future distributions.

Comrade Bello Sarki Abubakar, Chairman of NUJ Kebbi State Council, reaffirmed the union’s dedication to this tradition, initiated by former chairman Alhaji Aliyu Jajirma. 

He acknowledged the generous contributions of various donors, including Alhaji Umar Idris Buro, Engineer Rilwanu Usman of Ganou Rice Farm, Labana Rice, and the Kebbi State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

“Each of the 22 benefitting families received a 25 kg bag of rice and N10,000,” Comrade Bello Sarki announced, “while each NUJ chapel received N80,000 and two bags of 15 kg rice as a Ramadan and Sallah package.”

He also expressed gratitude to Governor Nasir Idris for his ongoing support and developmental projects across the state.

Hadiza Usman Ribah, a widow who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries, was overwhelmed with emotion. 

“I am deeply grateful for this kindness, especially during Ramadan,” she said, praying for blessings upon the NUJ members.

The event, which saw goodwill messages from Aminu Sani Kamba, General Manager of Kebbi Television, and representatives of the chapels, culminated in the presentation of cash and palliatives to the beneficiaries.