The Chairman, Lagos State National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Musiliu Akinsanya, also known as MC-Oluomo, has donated locally-made face masks to the leadership of Lagos State Chapter of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to combat COVlD-19 in the state.
Akinsanya, who presented the items to Lagos Council Chairman of NUJ, Dr. Quasim Akinreti, who paid a courtesy visit alongside his delegate to NURTW Secretariat in Agege, said the gesture was in reaction to the media’s contributions to the pandemic.
“The face masks are part of our support for journalists as one of the vulnerable groups in the frontline, reporting and educating the COVlD-19 situation.
According to him, “The media is one of the cardinal groups in winning the battle against COVID-19 pandemic. They have been informing and educating us on how to prevent contracting the virus as well as halt its spread.
“That is why I deemed it fit to lend my support to what you are doing; for your dedication, and steadfastness among others. You are doing a great job that must be commended and encouraged,” he commended.
Speaking further, the NURTW boss lauded the media for keeping the public abreast with activities of government in the fight against the virus ravaging the nation and the state.
He pledged his support. “I, hereby, express my readiness to partner the media in impacting positively on the society at large. Do not hesitate to call on me whenever the need arises.”
Having lent his support, the chairman urged journalists to adhere strictly to the precautionary measures aimed at preventing them from contracting the virus. He listed: regular hand washing, use of face masks, and alcohoI-based hand sanitisers.
Reacting to the gesture, the State NUJ Chairman, Qasim Akinreti applauded the leadership of Akinsanya in the state so far and the gesture, even at a very short nonce.
While noting that the face masks would go a long way in ensuring the safety of journalists as they go about their duties, he called on well-meaning individuals, groups and organisations to emulate Akinsanya’s gesture.