The Editor-in-Chief of ASHENEWS, Mr. Abdallah Elkurebe, has urged student journalists at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), and across Nigeria to uphold truth, accuracy, and fairness in their reportage.
He gave the advice on Sunday, August 31, 2025, during the Northern Nigeria Campus Journalism Conference and NACJ Award Ceremony held at UDUS.
“Don’t lie, don’t fabricate news”
Speaking at the event, themed “Future of Nigerian Journalism Amid Rising Attacks on Journalists” with the sub-theme “The Hope and Opportunities for Campus Journalists,” Mr. Abdallah reminded students of their responsibility to be the voice of their peers.
“As a campus journalist, first and foremost, you are the voice of the students. Don’t lie and don’t fabricate news; be innocent in whatever you are reporting,” he said.
Why I started writing
Sharing his personal journey, the ASHENEWS Editor-in-Chief explained that he ventured into journalism after observing how politicians repeatedly failed to fulfill their promises.
“I picked up my pen to write and enlighten the public for proactive change,” he recalled.
He noted that avoiding greed and prioritizing integrity helped him and his colleagues succeed in journalism. “My first mentor was Adamu Adamu, a former Minister of Education. Money will come when you are committed to your work,” he added.
Academics commend campus journalists
Dr. Abdulhakim Abdulganiyu, a lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication, UDUS, said he first learned about the university through the works of campus journalists.
“Before I came to Sokoto, I knew what was happening on campus through reports by campus journalists. Their association is the most popular on campus,” he said.
He commended NACJ and its members for reshaping narratives within the university and stressed that journalism remains the pillar of democracy, despite global threats and killings of journalists, especially in Gaza.
Opportunities in campus hournalism
Also speaking, Sokoto-based investigative journalist, Shafa’atu Suleman, highlighted career opportunities for young reporters.
She cited the success of Abdurasheed Hammad and Sherifdeen Ahmad, who advanced in their careers through student fellowships.
“Many organizations, such as Campus Reporter and the UDEME programme of CJID, directly target student journalists for mentorship and professional growth,” she explained.
She urged students to remain consistent: “Be consistent and focused; that is what will help you achieve your goals. With consistency, you will succeed.”
