By Chris Nyamtu
Leadership is often measured not only by the offices one occupies but also by the enduring impact left on the people and institutions entrusted to one’s care. In Nasarawa State, one name that has increasingly become synonymous with purposeful leadership within the journalism profession is that of the outgoing Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Nasarawa State Council, Comrade Salihu Mohammed Alkali.
To many in his hometown of Doma Local Government Area, Comrade Salihu Alkali is known as a grassroots mobiliser, a bridge-builder and a committed team player. Those who knew him during his days at the University of Maiduguri remember him as a disciplined, principled and hardworking individual with unwavering respect for constituted authority. These qualities have continued to define his personal and professional life.
Comrade Salihu Mohammed Alkali began his journalism career after joining the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) in 2006. He was posted to Radio Nigeria Precious FM, Lafia, where he commenced work as a reporter. Driven by passion and a strong desire to serve the public through responsible journalism, he quickly distinguished himself through diligence, professionalism and an exceptional commitment to excellence.
Within a short period, he mastered the art of news writing, reporting and editorial responsibilities. His reports from the Government House Press Crew and the Nasarawa State House of Assembly earned him respect among colleagues and stakeholders for their accuracy, balance and depth.
His consistency and dedication eventually earned him promotion to the position of News Editor, where he became known for mentoring younger journalists and insisting on the highest ethical standards. He constantly reminded reporters that journalism is a public trust and that every journalist must protect the integrity of the profession.
His leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to the welfare of journalists soon attracted widespread admiration across the various chapels of the NUJ in Nasarawa State. This confidence culminated in his emergence as Chairman of the NUJ, Nasarawa State Council, ushering in a new era of purposeful leadership focused on institutional development, members’ welfare and professional advancement.
During his six-year tenure, Comrade Salihu Alkali pursued reforms that significantly transformed the fortunes of the union. Through sustained engagement with the Nasarawa State Government and other critical stakeholders, he secured notable interventions that improved both the working environment and the image of the council.
One of the most remarkable achievements of his administration was attracting the attention of Governor Abdullahi Sule to the poor state of the NUJ Press Centre in Lafia. Following an inspection of the facility, the Governor directed its immediate remodelling, stressing that a state with growing national and international relevance deserved a befitting environment for journalists. The administration also facilitated the donation of an operational bus to the council, easing transportation challenges for members and improving the union’s operational efficiency.
Beyond infrastructure, Comrade Alkali consistently placed the welfare of journalists at the centre of his administration. Through regular engagement with government and development partners, he ensured that members benefited from various welfare initiatives, especially during festive periods. His administration demonstrated that a vibrant and motivated media workforce remains indispensable to democratic governance and sustainable development.
Perhaps one of his most commendable achievements was restoring unity within the Correspondents’ Chapel. The prolonged crisis that resulted in the emergence of a parallel chapel was peacefully resolved through dialogue and constructive engagement involving relevant stakeholders. Today, the Correspondents’ Chapel operates as one united body, reflecting his commitment to reconciliation, inclusiveness and institutional stability.
With a clear vision of building a financially independent union, Comrade Salihu Alkali also initiated the construction of the NUJ Guest House Project. The project is designed to serve as a long-term investment capable of generating sustainable revenue for the council, thereby reducing dependence on external support and strengthening the financial base of the union.
His tenure equally witnessed a cordial and mutually beneficial relationship between journalists and the Nasarawa State Government. Through continuous dialogue, he encouraged government officials to regard the media as partners in development rather than adversaries. This approach contributed to improved communication between government and the press while promoting responsible journalism founded on accuracy, fairness and constructive engagement.
Recognising that journalism thrives on knowledge and continuous learning, Comrade Alkali prioritised capacity building by facilitating training programmes, workshops and professional development opportunities for journalists within and outside the state.
He also maintained an open-door leadership style anchored on transparency, accountability and prudent management of the union’s resources. Furthermore, he remained resolute in promoting professionalism, discouraging unethical practices and standing firmly in defence of journalists whenever their rights or professional responsibilities came under threat.
As his tenure comes to a close, many journalists across Nasarawa State have continued to express the view that his wealth of experience, leadership capacity and communication skills would be valuable in public service. Consequently, there have been growing calls on Governor Abdullahi Sule to consider appointing Comrade Salihu Mohammed Alkali as the Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism.
Supporters of this position argue that his extensive understanding of the media landscape, proven ability to build consensus and commitment to responsible public communication could further strengthen the relationship between government and the media while enhancing public information management in the state.
Ultimately, the decision rests with the appointing authority. However, irrespective of future appointments, one fact remains evident: Comrade Salihu Mohammed Alkali leaves behind a legacy of visionary leadership, institutional reforms, professional excellence and unwavering commitment to the welfare of journalists. His contributions have undoubtedly left an enduring mark on the Nigeria Union of Journalists in Nasarawa State and established a foundation upon which future administrations can continue to build.
Nyamtu works the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria in Nasarawa State.
