THE Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sokoto State Council, says it is deeply saddened by the passing of its pioneer Chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Biu.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Biu died at 81 on Friday in his hometown in Borno.
Biu, who was also a member of the Governing Board of the Dental Technologists Registration Board of Nigeria, is survived by his wife, 14 children, and 16 grandchildren.
In a statement on Saturday, signed by the council Chairman, Usman Binji, and Secretary, Muhammad Bello, the union described Biu’s death as a great loss to the journalism profession.
“The council received the news of his demise with profound shock and sorrow.
“His passing has created a huge vacuum, as he was a mentor and guardian to many journalists.
“His legacy is worthy of emulation, and his contributions to the profession will always be remembered,” the statement read.
It further described the deceased as “a distinguished gentleman known for his exemplary character and dedication to journalism.
“Biu was an icon of hope for many practicing journalists within and outside Nigeria.
“He served as the pioneer chairman of NUJ, Sokoto State Council, from 1977 to 1978,” it noted.
The council prayed to Almighty Allah to grant him Jannatul Firdaus and extended its heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, as well as the people and government of Borno over the great loss.
The late octogenarian worked in several media organisations, including Radio Television Kaduna from 1964 to 1972, the Nigeria Broadcasting Corporation, Lagos (now FRCN) from 1973 to 1975, and Nigeria Television Authority, Sokoto, from 1976 to 1980.
He also served as an Information Attaché at the Consulate General of Nigeria in New York, USA (1982-1983) and at the Nigerian Embassy in Washington, DC (1984-1985), among other notable positions.
