The Union of Journalists of Nigeria (NUJ), the State Council of Sokoto, has expressed a deep sadness for the approval of its pioneering president, Alhaji Ibrahim Biu, describing it as a dedicated and mentor professional to many in the journalism industry.
Alhaji Biu, who also served as a member of the Nigerian dental technologists (DTRBN), died on Friday, January 31, 2025.
In a statement signed by the president of Nuj Sokoto, Usman Mohammed Binji, and secretary, Muhammad Nasir Bello, the union extended the condolences to his family, the people and the government of the state of Borno.
“The news of his disappearance was a great shock for us. It was an icon of hope and a guardian for many journalists. His legacy of excellence, professionalism and tutoring will be remembered forever, ”reads the statement.
Born on April 4, 1944, in the state of Borno, Alhaji Biu had an illustrious career that covers decades. He began his journalism trip in 1964 on Radio Televisión Kaduna (BCNN) before moving to Nigeria Broadcasting Corporation (now FRCN) in Lagos from 1973 to 1975. He later worked at Nigeria Television, Sokoto, between 1976 and 1980.
Beyond Nigeria, Biu also served as a fixation of information at the Nigeria General Consulate in New York (1982-1983) and in the Nigeria embassy in Washington, DC (1984-1985).
A pioneer in the profession was elected first president of the State Council of Nuj Sokoto from 1977 to 1978, establishing a base that continues to shape journalism in the state.
Alhaji Biu survives his wife, 14 children and 16 grandchildren.
The NUJ prayed for Allah Almighty to grant Jannatul Firdaus and urged journalists to defend the values he defended throughout his career.