Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has commended journalists for their sacrifices and contributions to Nigeria democracy, peace and national unity describing them as critical partners in nation building.

The governor gave the commendation on Tuesday when he received members of the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists who visited him at the Government House in Benin City.

Okpebholo said journalists have played significant roles in defending democracy and keeping Nigerians informed often working under difficult and dangerous conditions to ensure the public receives information about events across the country.

You people have contributed to Nigeria democracy. You fought for what we are enjoying today. You fought for the peace of Nigeria. You fought for the unity of this country and you remain in our hearts, he said.

He added that journalists deserve recognition for their commitment to information dissemination noting that their work remains essential to the functioning of democracy.

I will continue to take you as one of us because of what you are doing day and night. Even during the war you go in there just to get information so that people will know what is happening. That is very serious and you are highly commended, he said.

He described the visit as the beginning of a lasting partnership between his administration and the union expressing optimism that the relationship will bring a turning point for Edo State and usher in a new era for the NUJ.

Today we have started our relationship. We have started a partnership. This meeting will last long and it will bring about a turning point for Edo. It is a new dawn for NUJ, the governor said.