Northeast Publishers Forum (NEPF) commends NEDC for Swift Support to Journalists After Bauchi Road Accident

North East Publishers Forum (NEPF) Commends NEDC for Swift Support to Journalists After Bauchi Road Accident

By Yusuf Ali

The North East Publishers Forum (NEPF) has commended the North East Development Commission (NEDC) for its prompt and compassionate intervention following a road accident involving 13 journalists in Bauchi State.

The journalists were reportedly covering the commissioning of NEDC projects when the unfortunate incident occurred. Although no lives were lost, several of the media professionals sustained injuries, while critical working tools—including cameras, tripods, microphones, LED lights, and mobile phones—were damaged in the crash.

In a formal Letter of Commendation, the NEPF expressed deep appreciation to the Commission for its swift response. The NEDC replaced the damaged equipment and provided ₦5 million in financial assistance to support the medical treatment of the affected journalists.

The Forum described the gesture as a demonstration of institutional responsibility and a clear acknowledgment of the vital role the media plays in promoting transparency, accountability, and public awareness of development initiatives across the North East.

According to the NEPF, the intervention reflects the leadership of the Managing Director/CEO of the Commission, Mohammed G. Alkali, as well as the supportive oversight of the Honourable Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu.

The Forum noted that the Commission’s action has further strengthened confidence in the NEDC’s commitment to partnership with critical stakeholders, particularly the media, in advancing recovery, rebuilding, and sustainable development efforts in the region.

The NEPF added that the NEDC’s response sets a commendable example for other public institutions in fostering constructive engagement and solidarity with journalists in the line of duty.