Gov Lawal Invests Tinubu as Grand Patron at Inaugural State House Press Corps Dinner

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, was among senior government officials and distinguished guests who attended the maiden State House Press Corps Presidential Dinner held on Thursday night at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The event marked a significant milestone for journalists covering the Presidency, bringing together members of the media and top government functionaries in an atmosphere designed to encourage greater engagement between both sides.

One of the defining moments of the evening was the formal investiture of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the Grand Patron of the State House Press Corps. The investiture was performed by Governor Lawal, symbolising the administration’s acknowledgement of the critical role the media plays in promoting accountability, transparency and democratic governance.

The inaugural dinner was organised by the State House Press Corps as a platform to recognise excellence in presidential reporting while fostering closer interaction between journalists and key policymakers outside the formal setting of official engagements.

Addressing guests at the event, President Tinubu urged media professionals to remain committed to the principles of truth, fairness and responsible journalism, describing the press as an essential pillar of Nigeria’s democratic development. He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the constitutional rights of journalists, including press freedom and freedom of expression.

The State House Press Corps, which comprises journalists accredited to cover activities at the Presidency, hosted the historic gathering.

Among those in attendance were First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu; the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; ministers in charge of Finance, Education, Health, Agriculture and Information; as well as the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack.