NUJ asks Tinubu to address journalists welfare – National President, Alhassan Yahaya
NUJ Highlights Press Challenges at Annual Recognition Event in Abuja
ABUJA — Alhassan Yahaya, the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), addressed the ongoing challenges faced by journalists during the fourth Annual Milestone Recognition of Media Icons on Saturday. The event, themed “Strengthening Democracy Through Responsible Journalism and Good Governance,” took place in the nation’s capital.
Yahaya lamented the inadequate salaries that journalists earn despite their crucial roles in democracy, accountability, and national development, as well as the inherent risks associated with their profession. He emphasized the NUJ’s aim to extend successful welfare initiatives to journalists across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory through discussions with state governors.
In a keynote address delivered by his Chief of Staff, Johnson Erijo, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to press freedom, transparency, and accountability. He asserted that journalists should be free to hold the government accountable without facing intimidation or undue restrictions.
Oborevwori recognized the significance of a free and independent press in a democratic society. He underscored that journalists amplify citizens’ voices, facilitate public discourse, and ensure accountability from those in power. He also recalled the vital role that journalists played in Nigeria’s nationalist struggle, the fight against military rule, and the return to democracy in 1999, acknowledging the sacrifices many have made, including harassment and even death, in defense of press freedom.
Former NUJ President Christopher Isiguzo, who served as the chairman of the occasion, urged journalists to combat misinformation, propaganda, and divisive narratives in the lead-up to the next general election. He encouraged media professionals to inform the public without inciting division, hold officials accountable without bias, and report quickly without compromising accuracy.
“We must inform without inflaming, hold power accountable without becoming partisan actors, and report with speed without sacrificing accuracy and verification,” Isiguzo stated.
He warned against the politicization of information and stressed that journalists’ loyalty should lie with the truth, the public interest, and national stability. Isiguzo asserted that democracy extends beyond elections, emphasizing the need for accountable leadership, justice, security, and improved living conditions for citizens. “Regardless of who wins or loses elections, Nigeria must always win,” he concluded.
The ceremony also recognized several individuals for their contributions to journalism, public service, media leadership, and community development.
