…pledges unwavering support for Journalists
The Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Saturday conferred Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon.Comrade Philip Shaibu, with the 2022 Sportsman of the Year Award.
The NUJ Chairman, Comrade Festus Alenkhe, while conferring the award on the sports-loving Deputy Governor, said Shaibu was the pillar behind the promotion of Bendel Insurance Football Club of Benin to the Nigerian Professional Football League, NPFL and the success story recorded so far in the premier league.
Receiving the award at a dinner party organized by the Edo NUJ, Shaibu vowed to continue to be a voice to young Nigerians, Nigerian sports and the football world, especially Journalists, who fought with their pens to ensure his release from prison during his unlawful detention by the Abacha military junta during a civil protest.
According to Shaibu, his relationship with Journalists was beyond political affiliation.
“Whether they write and attack me, I will always be part of them for all they’ve done in saving my life during our struggle as activists under the aegis of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS.
“I can never get intoxicated with power like others do. Journalism is one of the most important professions because of the risk involved in the job”.
“I will continue to do my job according to the will of God”, Shaibu assured.
The conferment of the 2022 Sportsman of the Year Award on the Deputy Governor, was held at the prestigious Uyi Grand Hotels and Suites, G.R.A, Benin City.
The glamorous event attracted dignitaries from all walks of life from within and beyond Edo State.