A Journalist’s Report Saved My Life – Edo Ex-Deputy Gov Shaibu
The immediate past Deputy Governor of Edo State, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has paid glowing tributes to journalists, describing them as the backbone of democracy.
“You, as journalists, are the heart of our democracy. I experienced your courage during the struggle. If you had not done what was necessary, I might not be here today sharing this testimony,” said Shaibu, the current Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS).
He narrated how a journalist exposed the continued detention of some individuals after others had been released, a report that ultimately led to his own freedom.
“I may have died and been remembered as a fallen hero, but that story saved my life. That is why I am proud to associate with journalists,” Shaibu added.
Although Shaibu did not elaborate on his detention period and experience, TheNewsGiant recalls that the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in 2000 condemned the alleged arrest of its President, Comrade Philip Shaibu, and three others by the police in Abuja during Independence Day parade.
Shaibu spoke while serving as Chairman at the 2026 Public Health Awareness and Wellbeing Conference, organised by the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel in collaboration with Alliance Hospital and Dr. Physiq Global Health and Wellness Centre, at the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Utako, Abuja.
He commended the leadership of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT, for spearheading a timely public health awareness campaign.
The former Deputy Governor of Edo State described the initiative as both necessary and impactful in the current national climate.
“Our health is critical, owing to the situation we find ourselves in today. It demands regular medical check-ups because our mental health and stability are essential to our daily living. Whether you like it or not, health is wealth,” Shaibu said.
He called on all partners involved in the initiative to sustain their collaboration, urging professional bodies such as the Nigerian Medical Association to emulate the Correspondents’ Chapel.
Shaibu disclosed that since assuming office at NIS, he had introduced a culture of daily fitness within the institute, dedicating at least one hour on Tuesday and Thursday to exercise.
He attributed his appointment to the foresight of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and expressed appreciation to the President for his leadership.
In a passionate appeal to public office holders, Shaibu cautioned against complacency and overdependence on government funding.
“Leaders must stop making excuses and begin to think outside the box. We cannot always wait for government funding before doing what is necessary,” he said.
He revealed that NIS now had a trained and certified medical doctor specialising in marathon races, a milestone achieved without waiting for budgetary releases.
“Yes, the NIS budget has been passed, but we don’t have to wait for its release before carrying out meaningful reforms. What we are doing now is a replication of what I did as Deputy Governor in Edo State,” he explained.
The conference featured a keynote address by Dr. Abdulrahaman M. Huzaifa, while Dr. Christopher Otabor served as Guest Speaker.
The event was hosted by Comrade Felix Ojo, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Correspondents’ Chapel, with Comrade Grace Ike, Chairman of NUJ FCT Council, as Chief Host.
The programme also included free medical diagnostic services for participants, reinforcing its commitment to promoting preventive healthcare and public wellbeing.
