NUJ asks Tinubu to address journalists welfare – National President, Alhassan Yahaya

NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahaya, on Saturday, at the fourth edition of the union’s Annual Milestone Recognition of Media Icons in Abuja, held under the theme, “Strengthening Democracy Through Responsible Journalism and Good Governance,” lamented the poor salaries journalists continue to earn despite their contributions to democracy, accountability and national development, as well as the risks associated with their profession.

According to him, the NUJ hopes to extend any successful welfare arrangement to journalists across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory through engagements with state governors.

Meanwhile, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to press freedom, transparency and accountability, insisting that journalists must be free to hold government accountable without intimidation or unnecessary restrictions.

Oborevwori stated this in a keynote address delivered on his behalf by his Chief of Staff, Johnson Erijo, at the event.

He described a free and independent press as essential to democracy, noting that journalists give citizens a voice, promote public debate and ensure that those in authority remain accountable.

The governor recalled the role of journalists in Nigeria’s nationalist struggle, resistance against military rule and the restoration of democracy in 1999. He noted that many suffered harassment, intimidation and unlawful detention, while some lost their lives defending press freedom.

Earlier, former NUJ President and chairman of the occasion, Christopher Isiguzo, urged journalists to resist misinformation, propaganda and divisive narratives ahead of the next general election.

He advised media practitioners to inform without inflaming tensions, hold public officials accountable without becoming partisan and report promptly without sacrificing accuracy.

“We must inform without inflaming, hold power accountable without becoming partisan actors, and report with speed without sacrificing accuracy and verification,” he said.

Isiguzo warned against the use of information as a political weapon, insisting that journalists’ loyalty should remain with truth, public interest and national stability.

He said democracy must go beyond elections to deliver accountable leadership, justice, security and improved living conditions for citizens.

“Regardless of who wins or loses elections, Nigeria must always win,” he said.

The ceremony also honoured personalities for their contributions to journalism, public service, media leadership and community development.