By Adamu Yusuf
The Kanwan Katsina District Head of Ketare, Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara has emphasized the need for continuous training and capacity building for journalists, particularly in digital journalism, Artificial Intelligence, and global best practices.
He made this known while delivering his address at this year’s World Radio Day celebration organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Katsina State Council.
The theme, which focuses on the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the media industry, the traditional leader observed that AI is already transforming news gathering, editing, and dissemination.
Alhaji Usman Bello, however, stressed the importance of professionalism, ethical standards, and responsible application of the technology to safeguard credibility and sustain public trust in journalism.
The monarch described radio as the most accessible and people-oriented medium of communication, especially in rural communities.
He noted that despite the rapid growth of the internet and other digital platforms, radio remains the closest medium to the grassroots.
Kanwan Katsina further stated that improving journalists’ welfare through timely payment of salaries, regular promotions, and better working conditions is essential to strengthening professionalism and integrity within the media industry.
He also urged the Katsina State Government to expedite action on the establishment of additional FM radio stations across the three senatorial zones of the state.
According to him, setting up state-owned FM stations in Katsina, Daura, and Funtua would enhance public awareness of government policies and programmes, improve sensitization on security, health, and education, boost revenue generation, and create employment opportunities for youths and media professionals.
The Kanwan Katsina commended the NUJ Katsian State Council for consistently inviting him to its annual event and congratulated the union for joining the rest of the world in commemorating World Radio Day, a day set aside to highlight the importance of radio in education, public enlightenment, social cohesion, and democratic development.
In their separate presentations at the event, Dr. Samaila Balarabe and Dr. Kurfi who are lecturers from the Department of Mass Communication Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic delivered papers on the theme of the day, outlining both the opportunities and challenges that Artificial Intelligence presents to modern broadcasting and journalism.
Other important dignitaries that grace the occasion include the Special Adviser to the Katsina State Governor on Cultural Orientation Alhaji Isa Mohammed Musa and the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Information Comrade Tukur Hassan Dan Ali who is the immediate past chairman of the NUJ Katsina State Council.
World Radio Day is observed annually on thirteen February to recognize the vital role of radio as a powerful medium for information dissemination and community development.
