By Abdulkareem Haruna


Maiduguri, Nigeria – Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate and representative for Borno North, was lauded by the Borno State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) for his pivotal role in establishing the Court of Appeal’s Maiduguri Division. 

The Senator was presented with a letter of commendation and a plaque of Honor  in Maiduguri in recognition of his  unwavering commitment to improving Nigeria’s judicial system, particularly in the Northeast.

Ambassador Abdulkareem Haruna, Chairman of the NUJ, Borno Council, presented the award, commending Senator Monguno’s exceptional leadership and his consistent delivery of legislative contributions and developmental projects that directly impact citizens’ lives.


“Since your time in the House of Representatives up to your elevation to the upper chamber of the National Assembly, most of us have closely followed your developmental strides and the kind of leadership you provide,” Ambassador Haruna remarked.

“We have witnessed how you have deployed integrity, humility, and knowledge with zero controversy as you continue to legislate for your people and indeed all Nigerians. We are immensely proud of your good works.”


Haruna highlighted the public’s appreciation for the senator’s efforts, noting job opportunities created and numerous constituency projects, including critical urban development initiatives like roads and water infrastructure.

“I was amazed by the kind of urban development projects you carried out in your constituency even when you were in the House of Reps,” he said. “And you still remain calm; you don’t make too much noise. You maintain that comportment as a gentleman. We are truly proud of the leadership you are providing.”


He further underscored the significance of the new Court of Appeal division for journalists. “Most of us who report judicial activities only cover the lower courts. When cases are appealed, we are disconnected because we cannot easily travel to Jos, Gombe, or Kano due to logistical issues,” Haruna explained. “This effort you have made now, sir, means we are going to see a new generation of judicial reporters.


Responding to the bundle of Honor done to him, the senator emphasized the importance of public scrutiny by  journalists, stressing that “the fact that you have recognized our humble contribution to society will spur us to do more. I implore you to continue to monitor our activities and serve as a watchdog. Constructive criticism of our actions, where we err, serves as an avenue for us to correct our mistakes. Any democracy worthy of its name, and any democrat worth their salt, must be receptive to constructive criticisms because this is part and parcel of democracy.”


He added, “I sincerely thank you for all the kind words and for monitoring our activities. It keeps us on our toes to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people and will equally encourage us to do more, which is a way of holding us accountable.”

Senator Monguno concluded by pledging to “jealously guard and protect” the award, viewing it as a “veritable tonic” to further serve his constituents, as “the whole essence of democracy is representation.” He also assured journalists of his continued support in their constitutional duties.

“Regarding the National Industrial Court, I assure you that before the year’s end, it will commence operations in Maiduguri,” Senator Monguno stated. He recalled his efforts as former Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, where he championed the establishment of both the Court of Appeal and the National Industrial Court.

“The Court of Appeal has taken off, and I am actively following up to ensure the National Industrial Court also sees the light of day.”