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  • AI will only replace journalists who refuse to learn – NUJ Chairman

    AI will only replace journalists who refuse to learn – NUJ Chairman

    Comrade Akeem Abas, Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, says Artificial Intelligence (AI) can only replace journalists without updated digital skills.

    Abas said this in Ibadan on Wednesday at a two-day AI training, organised by the state council in collaboration with the American Open University, Nigeria.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the training is entitled “Empowering Journalists with Artificial Intelligence for Ethical, Innovative and Future-ready Journalism”.

    According to Abas, a digitally empowered journalist is not a threat to national development, but a strategic partner in nation-building.

    He said that with AI competence, journalists could become media consultants, offering data analysis, content strategy, and communication advisory services to governments, institutions, and the private sector.

    He added that they could build media and technology startups, fact-checking platforms, local data hubs, investigative journalism labs, digital storytelling studios, and AI-assisted news platforms that serve niche audiences.

    According to him, journalists can also function as policy advisors and public communication experts, supporting government agencies, legislators, and development institutions with research-based insights, public engagement strategies, and evidence-driven narratives.

    Abas noted that the training was, in its truest sense, not for charity, but capacity building.

    “This vision aligns squarely with Nigeria’s Digital Economy Agenda, which prioritises digital skills, innovation, entrepreneurship, and human capital development as drivers of national growth.

    “As the country pushes towards a knowledge-based economy, journalists must not be excluded from this transformation.

    “During our electioneering campaign, we promised to move beyond symbolic leadership to policy-driven unionism, pledging to equip our members with skills that translate into relevance, sustainability, and dignity in a changing economy.

    “This training of 120 journalists is a direct fulfilment of that promise; AI will not replace journalists, it will only replace journalists who refuse to learn,” he said.

    Abas urged the participants to move from routine reporting to analytical and solution-oriented journalism.

    He called on journalists to interrogate data, interpret policies, and enlighten citizens in ways that strengthen democracy and accountability.

    “To policymakers and stakeholders present, this initiative sends a strong message; investing in journalists is investing in transparency, stability and informed governance.

    “A technologically competent press is not a luxury; it is a national necessity.

    “Let us remember that journalism has survived every technological disruption because it adapts without surrendering its soul.

    “Artificial Intelligence must amplify human judgment, not replace it; it must serve democracy, not undermine it,” Abas said.

    Meanwhile, the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, described the emergence of AI as a good development.

    Oyelade, however, said, like any other global innovation, AI comes with its own gamut of minuses, as it could be deployed by netizens or online users for alarming negative uses.

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    According to him, studies have shown that AI is indeed a quintessential part of journalism, as it is today and in the future.

    “In Oyo State, the key factor behind the success of the Seyi Makinde-led administration is the religious deployment of science and data in governance.

    “The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development is deploying digitisation of its land transactions, such that financial leakages have been blocked.

    “Fraud has been brought to the barest minimum, and it has helped tremendously to increase the state’s IGR, reaching a phenomenal N103 billion in 2025.

    “This figure alone represents more than the total IGR of the past two administrations in the state,” he said.

    Oyelade implored journalists to seize the opportunity to use the benefits and knowledge provided at the two-day event for personal and corporate use.

    He also commended the new Oyo NUJ executives for organising the training in less than two months of assuming office.

    Also, Dr Seyi Akanbi, the acting Vice-Chancellor (VC) of American Open University, Nigeria, described AI as a solution, only in the hands of good people.

    Akanbi identified misinformation, disinformation and propaganda as threats to journalism.

    He, therefore, urged journalists to learn and deploy AI for content integrity, social responsibility, professional excellence, innovation and adaptation.

    The VC advised them to partner with organisations such as Google to create a fact-checking platform for accuracy.

    (NAN)

  • The Nation correspondent emerges Oyo Chapel’s chairman

    The Nation correspondent emerges Oyo Chapel’s chairman

    The Oyo State Correspondent of The Nation Newspapers, Yinka Adeniran on Tuesday emerged the Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council.

    Adeniran was declared winner after polling 31 votes to defeat his closest rival, John Alabi of Silverbird Television who scored 10 votes.

    For the position of the Secretary, Rotimi Agboluaje of The Guardian polled 31 votes to defeat Musliudeen Adebayo of Daily Post who had 10 votes.

    Also in the election, Remi Koleosho and Sheu Sulaimon both of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) were elected Vice Chairman and Treasurer respectively.

    The election was monitored by officials of the state Council including, Comrade Temiday Adu (Secretary), Comrade Moses Morenikeji (Treasurer) and Comrade Khalid Imran (Ex-officio).

    In a brief remark before swearing-in the new leaders, the Chairman, Oyo State Council of the NUJ, Comrade Akeem Abas who was also present to participate in the process which held at the  Correspondent Chapel Secretariat, Mokola, Ibadan, expressed gratitude for the peaceful conduct of the Correspondent Chapel members and the success the election.

    He said the Chapel where he is also a member has conducted one of the best elections recorded in the history of state Council, while charging members to be of good conduct and professional in all their endeavours.

    He charged the new leadership to promote professionalism and ethical practice while showing concern for the interest of their members.

    The election was the first to be so monitored and conducted by the Akeem Abas led leadership having just spent barely one month in office as the State Chairman.

    In his acceptance speech, the new Correspondent Chapel Chairman, Adeniran appreciated all leaders, elders and members for their support, commending them for giving him the opportunity to lead the Chapel at a time like this.

    He said while he works to build a common front for the Chapel, he will, with the collaboration of all members work to restore the lost glory of the profession among the members while ensuring that their interest is protected every time.

    He assures that himself and other members of his team are firstly members of the Chapel before assuming the position of leaders, while assuring the members that his team will serve for the good of humanity and for the progress of the Chapel, and the Union at large.

    Adeniran also called on the members to support and work with the executive members to attain success for the Chapel.

    Out of the 48-members register, 42 members were accredited to vote while one vote was voided in both the Chairmanship and Secretary election of the Chapel.

  • NUJ commends Hajj Commission on 2025 pilgrimage

    NUJ commends Hajj Commission on 2025 pilgrimage

    The President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Comrade Alhasan Yahya Abdul, has said that the 2025 Hajj operation is one of the best in the history of Nigeria.

     Abdul stated this at the 2025 post Hajj Lecture and Recognition by the Independent Hajj Reporters

     The event with the theme “For the Interest of Pilgrims” was held at Auditorium Hall, National Mosque, Abuja on Thursday and was meant to analyse some of the happenings during 2025 Hajj operation.

     The President said that the 2025 Hajj exercise was conducted smoothly despite challenges and deadlines, saying no Nigerian pilgrim missed the exercise.

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    Abdul cautioned against displaying political posters and holding political meetings during pilgrimage, saying Saudi authorities frown at such activities.

    He said: “As journalists, we must also do our job in line with constitutional provision. The constitution clearly states that we must hold leaders accountable. I will refer to an incident last year in which a woman was arrested.

    “All journalists covering the Hajj operation must be mindful of Nigeria’s image. They must conduct themselves appropriately and project a good image of the country.

    “For me, last Hajj operation was one of the best in the history of Nigeria. I thank the organizers, the officials and the journalists who represented Nigeria during the exercise. Hopefully next year’s operation will be better than what we had.

    “I must commend the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), the officials and the journalists who represented Nigeria during the operation.”

  • NUJ seeks stronger media role in oversight of public debt

    NUJ seeks stronger media role in oversight of public debt

    The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has called for greater collaboration between the media, civil society organizations, and parliament to strengthen oversight of public debt and enhance accountability in Nigeria.

    In her presentation at the ongoing 11th Annual Conference and General Assembly of the West Africa Association of Public Accounts Committees (WAAPAC), organised by the House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee on Tuesday, Ike stressed that the media remains the mirror of society and a vital watchdog in holding public officials accountable. 

    She noted that without the active involvement of journalists, the work of parliamentary committees such as the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) would not achieve the desired impact.

    “The media acts as an intermediary between parliament, government institutions and the public. Public awareness is necessary, and how can we achieve this if not through information sharing and capacity building?” she said.

    The NUJ chairperson emphasized the need for training and retraining of journalists to deepen their understanding of audit processes, public debt issues, and the technical aspects of legislative oversight.

    She proposed periodic workshops, roundtables, and joint briefings with Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) and civil society groups to improve the quality of reporting.

    While commending the Chairman of the House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee, Hon. Bamidele Salam, for working closely with the media, she insisted there was room for improvement. 

    She suggested that before the end of the 10th Assembly, a comprehensive training session should be organized for journalists covering parliament to build their technical knowledge on debt and oversight issues.

    Read Also: NUJ FCT, Rotary Club Maitama partner to drive humanitarian projects, amplify fight against polio

    Highlighting the growing importance of investigative and undercover journalism, Ike said journalists must be equipped with resources and specialized training to expose corruption and mismanagement of public resources.

    “Investigative journalism is not easy. It requires funding, time and skills. We need to train journalists who can confidently carry out undercover reporting on public accounts and debt management. This will ensure we provide accurate information, not misinformation, at a time when fake news dominates social media,” she said.

    She also urged SAIs and parliamentary committees to facilitate access to audit reports and data, stressing that timely, simplified, and publicly available information would improve transparency and accountability.

    According to her, the media and CSOs also have a duty to embark on joint sensitization campaigns to educate citizens about public debt, its implications, and their right to demand accountability from government.

    “Most people do not even know they have the right to demand accountability. It is the duty of the media to remind citizens of this right and to hold those in power to their promises,” she added.

    Ike further called for advocacy for legislative and policy reforms that would strengthen the role of parliamentary committees in debt oversight. 

    She argued that by publicizing both successes and challenges, the media could stimulate wider civic engagement and pressure for reforms.

    She concluded that effective oversight of public debt must be seen as a collective responsibility involving the parliament, civil society, and the media.

    “One thing is to write reports and pass resolutions. Another is implementation. As gatekeepers of information, the media stands ready to work with all relevant stakeholders to ensure citizens are empowered, public resources are protected, and sustainable development is achieved,” Ike said.

    The NUJ FCT Chairman expressed optimism that continued synergy between the Public Accounts Committee and the press would not only enhance transparency but also ensure that Nigerians are better informed about how public debt is managed.

  • NUJ FCT condemns alleged harassment of NTA journalist by NRC MD, demands public apology

    NUJ FCT condemns alleged harassment of NTA journalist by NRC MD, demands public apology

    The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council has strongly condemned the alleged harassment and intimidation of Comrade Ladi Bala, former President of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and Transport Reporter with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Mr. Kayode Opeifa.

    According to a statement signed by the Council’s Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, the incident occurred on August 27, 2025, while Bala was on assignment covering the aftermath of a train derailment along the Abuja-Kaduna rail line.

    The NUJ said the NRC boss disrupted Bala’s live reporting, hurling derogatory remarks at her, including “you are stupid, your management is stupid, foolish woman,” and other demeaning language.

    He allegedly ordered security operatives to bundle her out of the scene and threatened to report her to security agencies, the Presidency, and NTA management with the intention of getting her dismissed.

    Other journalists present at the scene confirmed that Opeifa verbally assaulted Bala, questioning her appearance, professionalism, and right to cover the incident.

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    “When NUJ officials contacted the Managing Director, he claimed he was acting on security grounds but went further to threaten that Comrade Bala would never again be allowed to cover NRC events,” Oyekunle said.

    The NUJ FCT Council described the conduct as a flagrant violation of the journalist’s fundamental rights and an affront to press freedom as guaranteed under Sections 22 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

    “This behaviour is not only dehumanising but also undermines democracy and the rule of law. It represents growing hostility against the media in Nigeria and the increasing intolerance of some public officials to accountability and scrutiny,” the Council stated.

    The union expressed solidarity with Bala, insisting it has zero tolerance for the harassment and intimidation of journalists, especially women in the profession.

    “The NUJ demands an immediate and unreserved public apology from Mr. Kayode Opeifa and calls on the Nigerian Railway Corporation to take decisive steps to prevent a recurrence. We also urge relevant authorities to support a safe and respectful working environment for media practitioners,” the statement added.

  • Ondo: Aiyedatiwa’s govt open to constructive criticism, Ajanaku tells journalists

    Ondo: Aiyedatiwa’s govt open to constructive criticism, Ajanaku tells journalists

    The Ondo state government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting constructive criticism and ethical journalism under the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

    The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, gave the assurance on Thursday while hosting members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, led by their Chairman, Comrade Tosin Ajuwon, at his office in Akure.

    Ajanaku, who acknowledged the critical role of the media in a democratic society, encouraged journalists in the state to hold the Aiyedatiwa-led government accountable through fact-based and responsible reporting.

    “Do your job without fear. Ask questions, criticise constructively, and report responsibly,” the Commissioner said, emphasising that the current administration embraces transparency and accountability.

    He noted that, unlike previous administrations, the current government is determined to operate an open-door policy, using the Ministry of Information and Orientation as a vehicle to foster government-press relations.

    Commending the dedication and professionalism of journalists covering the activities of the present administration, Ajanaku expressed appreciation for the fair and balanced reportage by the media in the state.

    “You will have it better now than ever before. We consider you essential partners in development communication,” he added.

    He further assured that journalists would enjoy a more enabling environment under his leadership in the ministry, saying the government is committed to supporting their welfare and professional development.

    Also speaking, the ministry’s Administrative Secretary, Mr. Lanre Akarakiri, lauded the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel for their consistent support and pledged continued collaboration.

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    Comrade Ajuwon described the Correspondents’ Chapel as a crucial arm of the journalism profession in the state.

    He commended Ajanaku for his media expertise, noting that his background in print journalism would enhance communication between the government and the public.

    Ajuwon, however, formally invited the Commissioner to appear on the chapel’s flagship programme, The Platform, to speak on the ‘OUR EASE’ development mantra of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration and other governance issues.

  • Bago orders closure of radio station over alleged incitement

    Bago orders closure of radio station over alleged incitement

    Niger Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has ordered the immediate closure of Badeggi FM 90.1 Radio Station in Minna, accusing it of inciting violence against the government.

    The directive, during an expanded APC caucus meeting at the Government House, Minna, also called for the revocation of the station’s license. 

    Bago alleged that the daily activities of the station had been unethical and promoted violence, instructing the Commissioner for Homeland Security and the Commissioner of Police to seal the station and profile its owner.

    The move has sparked outrage from individuals, journalists, media groups and rights organisations, who describe it as a blatant attack on press freedom. 

    Amnesty International in a statement condemned the action as misguided and unjustifiable, accusing the governor of abusing his power and targeting independent media instead of tackling insecurity ravaging the state.

    “Under Nigerian laws, the Governor has no power to order the closure of a radio station. Choosing to blame a broadcaster for the inexcusable security failures of the government is an open attack on media freedom,” Amnesty International stated.

    The Wadata Media and Advocacy Centre (WAMAC) also denounced the decision, calling it an attempt to gag the press and urging the government to instead exercise the right of reply if aggrieved by the station’s content.

    The Niger chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Niger State Council cautioned Bago to tread with caution and in accordance with democratic tenets in issuing orders adding that the Governor needs to understand the role of the media in holding public officers accountable and not see every action taken by media organisations in the state to be against his government.

    In a statement by the Secretary of the state chapter, Usman Chiji after an emergency State working Committee meeting, NUJ stated that it is only the National Broadcasting Commission that has the legal powers to issue license to radio and television stations and to also revoke same through judicial interpretations when such stations err.

    The Union called on the Governor to approach NBC and formally lodge his complaint rather than outright directive to close down the station whose licencing is not within his executive power.

    “The Governor would have made effective use of the NUJ as professional body to table issues relating professional misconducts. In as much as the Union will not support gagging of the media houses by the authorities, it urges practitioners in the State to always abide by the ethics of the profession to uphold public confidence.”

    The NUJ further reminded the Governor on the need to carry media practitioners and houses along through partnerships instead of ordering for their closure that is against democratic principles calling for the immediate withdrawal of the order in the interest of democracy, invariably press freedom.

    Journalists practicing in the state have expressed fears that the move could set a dangerous precedent for silencing critical voices in the state. “If Badeggi FM can be shut down so easily, no newsroom is safe. This is intimidation, pure and simple,” a Minna-based reporter told our correspondent.

  • NUJ Kaduna mourns Tribune’s Leon Usigbe, Mass Comm scholar Fagbemi

    NUJ Kaduna mourns Tribune’s Leon Usigbe, Mass Comm scholar Fagbemi

    The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kaduna State Council, has expressed profound grief over the passing of two towering figures in Nigerian journalism and media education, Dr. Leon Usigbe and Dr Samson Fagbemi, describing their death as a monumental loss to the profession and the country.

    Dr Usigbe, the Abuja Bureau Chief of The Nigerian Tribune, died in the early hours of Saturday in Abuja. A respected journalist and former prominent member of NUJ Kaduna Council, Usigbe was widely admired for his depth, professionalism and generosity of spirit.

    The NUJ said the late Usigbe distinguished himself through unwavering dedication to the craft of journalism and played a vital role in mentoring and supporting his colleagues during his time in Kaduna and beyond.

    In a statement signed by the Council Chairman, Comrade AbdulGafar Alabelewe, and Secretary, Comrade Gambo Santos Sanga, the union also mourned the passing of Dr. Samson Fagbemi, a veteran Mass Communication scholar who died earlier in the week in Kaduna after a brief illness.

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    Dr. Fagbemi, a long-serving lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication, Kaduna Polytechnic, also served as a pioneer visiting lecturer at the Kaduna Study Centre of the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ), where he trained generations of journalists.

    According to the NUJ, both Usigbe and Fagbemi were not only accomplished professionals in their respective fields, but also builders of men and institutions who left a lasting legacy in the journalism profession.

    While condoling with the bereaved families and professional colleagues of the deceased, the NUJ Kaduna State Council prayed for the repose of their souls and strength for their loved ones to bear the painful losses.

  • Tompolo excited over partnership between NUJ, Tantita

    Tompolo excited over partnership between NUJ, Tantita

    Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Tantita Security Services Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemuokpolo has applauded the Nigeria media in its strategic role in the fight against oil theft.

    Tompolo, who received the National, Zonal and State leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in his country home at Oporoza, headquarters of Gbaramatu Kingdom, weekend, noted that the media has been pivotal in the achievements of Tantita.

    He said Tantita today is globally recognised among first rate security companies in the world due to unfettered media reportage of the activities of Tantita Security Services.

    “All over the world, it is because of your work that people are seeing what we’re doing. Considering what the media is doing for us (Tantita), what we came to commission (building of the NUJ Warri Correspondents Chapel Secretariat), is small compared to what they are doing.

    “We want to use this medium to thank the immediate past president and the incumbent for giving us this opportunity to serve our country.

    “You need to work more harder. We can only achieve our aims and objectives if we work together. We cannot achieve it alone.

    “We have to put in all that we have – everything – to see that Nigerian waterways are regarded as the most secured. We can only achieve this together “, the reverred Ijaw leader stressed.

    Earlier, the National President of NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahya told Tompolo that the leadership of the NUJ was in Oporoza to thank him for the state of the art Press Centre built by Tantita for the Union, was first of its kind in the country.

    Yahya also showered praises on Tompolo for his support towards the 2024 Delegate Conference of the NUJ in Owerri, where he emerged as the national leader of the union.

    He acknowledged the uncommon generosity and philanthropy of the Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation to humanity, adding that his contributions significantly eased the burden of the union during tbe Owerri gathering .

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    The NUJ president restated the Union’s commitment to unity and collective destiny of Nigeria and assured the Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited of NUJ’s continued partnership to ensure the company delivers on it set goals.

    The NUJ president was accompanied in the thank you visit by the immediate past president, Chief Chris Isiguzo, a distinguished veteran journalist, Asiwaju Sola Adebayo, the Deputy National President, Dr. Bimbo Oyetunde, Vice President and Secretary Zone F, Comrades Okpakamabo Dokubo and John Angese.

    Others were the Chairman and Secretary of NUJ Delta Council, Comrades Churchill Oyowe and Victor Sorokwu, Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and her vice, Delta Chapter, Comrades Sonia Unobunjo and Ruth Omigie, among others.

  • Tinubu tasks media on national unity, ethical journalism as NUJ celebrates 70 years

    Tinubu tasks media on national unity, ethical journalism as NUJ celebrates 70 years

    …ex-Gov Osoba challenges impostors, demands digital adaptation in the newsroom

    …our stories should aim to heal and unite, not to divide or incite – NUJ President

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has emphasised the pivotal role of the Nigerian media in fostering national unity, strengthening democracy, and shaping the country’s future, urging journalists to recommit to ethical journalism and nation-building.

    President Tinubu made the call at the 70th Anniversary Gala, Award Night, and Book Presentation of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.

    He was represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohamned Idris.

    The Minister, who was the chief host of the event, hailed the enduring relationship between President Tinubu and the media, describing him as a staunch ally of press freedom.

    “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not just a friend of the media, but one whose democratic credentials were shaped in solidarity with Nigeria’s most courageous journalists. From the trenches of the June 12 struggle to the presidency, his affinity with the press remains unmatched,” Idris said.

    He urged media professionals to spotlight Nigeria’s democratic gains and progress stories to help consolidate the nation’s 26-year democratic journey and foster civic confidence in public institutions.

    “The media must take the lead in telling the story of Nigeria’s democratic achievements, in governance reforms, infrastructure growth, civic engagement, and socio-economic development,” Idris said.

    While reaffirming Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to press freedom, Idris highlighted the growing threats of fake news, disinformation, and the disruptive influence of artificial intelligence on journalism practice.

    “The rise of generative AI and deepfakes poses a direct challenge to credible journalism. In this era, ethical journalism is not just important, it is essential,” he warned.

    He disclosed that the Federal Government, in partnership with UNESCO, is establishing a world-first Category-2 Media and Information Literacy Institute in Abuja, a landmark initiative aimed at promoting media responsibility and literacy in the digital age.

    “When operational, this Institute will serve as a transformative hub for building ethical journalism and informed citizenship in Nigeria,” he announced.

    He also pledged the government’s willingness to partner with the NUJ on matters of journalists’ welfare, digitisation, gender inclusion, and institutional support.

    Also speaking at the landmark event, elder statesman and veteran journalist, Chief Olusegun Osoba, called on the Federal Government and NUJ leadership to urgently tackle the menace of fake journalism in Nigeria.

    “Mr. President, you have a challenge. Can you ensure we now have an updated, verifiable database of genuine members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists? We must identify and weed out those parading themselves falsely as journalists,” the former Ogun State governor charged.

    Osoba warned that the credibility and future of the profession are at risk if impostors continue to undermine professional standards, noting that NUJ remains the mother body, describing other affiliates of NUJ as “clubs”.

    He stressed the importance of professionalism and integrity, especially as the country navigates the challenges of digital media.

    Reflecting on his career, Osoba recounted his transition from analogue to digital journalism, urging practitioners to embrace innovation. “I was once an analogue journalist, but today I can proudly tell you that I am a digital reporter. Change is inevitable. Journalists must adapt to survive.”

    He encouraged the media to stand firm against misinformation, uphold truth and public accountability, and honour the legacy of fallen heroes of the press.

    “Our profession is under siege from partisan interference and the erosion of ethical values. But we must continue to stand firm on the side of fairness and public interest.”

    Also speaking, NUJ President Comrade Alhassan Yahaya hailed the Union’s 70-year journey as a testament to professionalism, patriotism, and the power of journalism to shape national development.

    He recalled how the Union, founded on March 15, 1955, began as a platform to advocate for journalists’ welfare but evolved into a powerful institution at the forefront of national discourse and democracy.

    Abdullahi described the NUJ’s Platinum Jubilee as a historic moment of celebration, reflection, and renewed commitment to defending the role of journalism in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

    “Our 70th anniversary is more than just a commemoration of our past,” he said. “It is a rallying cry for the future we envision, a future rooted in ethical journalism, responsible innovation, and unrelenting advocacy for press freedom.”

    He noted that the NUJ’s growth is reflected in its widespread presence across Nigeria’s 37 state councils, the formation of affiliate bodies like NAWOJ, NGE, and SWAN, and its historic role in chronicling Nigeria’s civil war, coups, democratic transitions, and current reforms.

    “We have stood with the nation in its darkest and brightest hours,” he said.

    Amid ongoing insecurity in parts of the country, Yahaya charged journalists to maintain ethical standards, particularly in conflict reporting.

    “Our stories should aim to heal and unite, not divide. We must report with empathy, accuracy, and responsibility,” he said, while reaffirming the Union’s commitment to press freedom and constitutional democracy.

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    In the same vein, the Chairman of the NUJ @ 70 Organising Committee, Dr Abimbola Oyetunde, described the celebration as a landmark moment in the union’s history.

    “I am deeply moved by the overwhelming success of this celebration. It reflects the enduring spirit of the NUJ and the vital role the media continues to play in Nigerian society,” she said.

    She extended heartfelt appreciation to media houses, government dignitaries, and past NUJ and NAWOJ leaders for their support.

    “We are especially grateful for the comprehensive live coverage by NTA, AIT, FRCN, VON, and other stations like TVC, Arise, as well as many online platforms, which ensured Nigerians everywhere could share in this milestone,” she added.

    The event, themed “Celebrating Seven Decades of Journalistic Excellence,” brought together government officials, media executives, veteran journalists, and union leaders in a colourful celebration of press freedom and national impact.

    Awards were conferred on selected state governors for their media-friendly policies and peace-building initiatives, while seasoned journalists received plaques of honour for their lifetime contributions.