NUJ Honours Prof. Sunday Paul Bako for Media Support and Academic Openness

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Taraba State Council, has conferred a prestigious award on the Vice Chancellor of Taraba State University, Jalingo, Professor Sunday Paul Bako, in recognition of his consistent support for the media and commitment to transparency, academic freedom, and constructive engagement with journalists.

The award was presented at a special ceremony held at the NUJ Press Centre in Jalingo, drawing media professionals, university delegates, government functionaries, and civil society actors. The event underscored the vital role of collaboration between academia and the press in advancing democratic values and national development.

Prof. Bako, a vocal advocate for openness in university governance, has been instrumental in building bridges between the institution and the media. His administration has prioritised regular press briefings, inclusive academic dialogues, and open-door policies—a leadership style that reflects the ethos of responsible governance seen in recent times at other institutions such as the University of Lagos and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

Accepting the accolade, Prof. Bako expressed gratitude to the NUJ for the honour and reiterated his dedication to promoting a university system where free expression and responsible journalism thrive. “The media is an important progressive partner in nation-building. We must continue to provide them the space to operate freely, as long as it is guided by truth, objectivity, ethics and the public good,” he said.

The NUJ described Prof. Bako’s leadership as exemplary, especially at a time when misinformation and restricted access to public institutions pose threats to press freedom in Nigeria. The Union commended his proactive media engagements and called on other public office holders to emulate his transparency and accessibility.

This recognition comes amid growing calls for university administrators across Nigeria to adopt more open and accountable practices. Prof. Bako’s approach, grounded in engagement and academic liberty, presents a model for positive town-and-gown relations.