Bauchi Invests Over ₦3bn to Modernise Radio, TV Stations — Bala Mohammed

By Umar Usman Duguri

BAUCHI — Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has disclosed that his administration has invested more than ₦3 billion in the comprehensive overhaul and modernisation of state-owned radio and television stations.

The governor made the disclosure on Monday while declaring open the 3rd Annual Conference and Induction of New Members of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters (SNB) at the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Conference Centre, Bauchi.

Represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Muhammad Auwal Jatau, Governor Mohammed said the investment was part of efforts to reposition the state-owned broadcast media for the demands of modern broadcasting.

He disclosed that work was ongoing on the installation of state-of-the-art digital broadcasting facilities, which he said would strengthen the technical capacity of the stations and improve their effectiveness in an increasingly digital and competitive media environment.

According to the governor, the modernisation programme is expected to enable the state-owned broadcasters to respond more effectively to technological changes while improving the quality and reach of their services.

‘Bauchi Is Pearl of Tourism’

Welcoming members of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters to the state, Mohammed described Bauchi as the “Pearl of Tourism,” pointing to its cultural heritage, diversity and tradition of hospitality.

He said the state was honoured to host professionals whose voices, images and platforms have contributed significantly to public understanding and national discourse.

The governor also used the occasion to underscore the importance of professional associations in strengthening institutions and promoting responsible leadership.

He said an annual general meeting of a professional body should not be viewed merely as a statutory requirement, but as an opportunity for institutional reflection, assessment of achievements, confrontation of emerging challenges and development of a responsible path for the future.

Mohammed Commends Broadcasters

Governor Mohammed commended the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters for sustaining an institutional process through which members periodically renew their leadership.

He described leadership transition as an important test of an institution’s strength, maturity and commitment to democratic principles.

He urged broadcasters to continue upholding professionalism, responsibility and ethical standards, particularly as the industry faces rapid technological, structural and economic changes.

The governor stressed the need for practitioners to remain conscious of the influence and responsibility that come with broadcasting, urging them to contribute positively to society through credible and responsible journalism.

The conference brought together broadcasting professionals and stakeholders for discussions on the future of the industry, professional development and the changing demands of broadcasting in Nigeria.