The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Niger State Council, is sounding a strong warning on the state of affairs, calling on both federal and state governments to urgently address rising insecurity, erratic power supply, and other critical challenges affecting residents.
The position was contained in a communique issued after the Union’s Congress held at the IBB Pen House in Minna, where members reviewed issues impacting the media profession, the union, and the overall well-being of the state.
The Congress stressed the need for stronger collaboration between government and the media to drive development, transparency, and accountability.
It also raised concern over clashes between journalists and security personnel, demanding concrete measures to ensure the safety and protection of media professionals, while urging political actors to embrace issue-based campaigns and engage citizens more meaningfully through the media.
On internal matters, the Congress ratified the inauguration of the executive council of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists and approved the commencement of identity card issuance to members, urging prompt online registration.
The Union further tasked the state government to revive state-owned media organisations and urgently address the shortage of primary school teachers across all 25 local government areas.
MUST READ: Ethiopians dominate maiden Yenagoa international 10km race showdown
As part of efforts to expand participation, members considered the creation of new chapels, including the Nester FM Chapel, a Federated Radio Chapel made up of Badeggi FM, Ultimate FM, and Maw Trade FM, as well as a Federated Online Chapel to accommodate digital media practitioners.
The Congress, briefly attended by the State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Obed Nana, commended journalists for their critical role in informing the public and sustaining cordial relations with government.
It also announced plans to organise a Media Summit and embark on a statewide media tour to showcase ongoing projects, while encouraging journalists to remain professional and proactive.
In his remarks, NUJ State Chairman, Abu Nmodu, assured the Commissioner of the union’s continued support for development-driven journalism, emphasising professionalism, objectivity, and press freedom.
The Congress reaffirmed its commitment to ethical journalism and democratic principles, pledging to contribute meaningfully to the development of Niger State and support initiatives that promote good governance.
Editor: Ada Ononye
