NUJ President Celebrates 70 Years of Journalism, Calls for Responsible Reporting Amid National Challenges
The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, has hailed the Union’s 70-year journey as a testament to professionalism, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to truth and justice in Nigeria.
Speaking through his representative, Comrade Abdulrazak Bello Kaura, Zonal Secretary of NUJ Zone A, during a commemorative lecture and get-together organized by the Katsina State Council at Al-Hayat Regency Suites, the President reflected on the Union’s historical role in shaping Nigeria’s democratic evolution and defending the rights of the press.
The event, themed “NUJ @70: A Historical Perspective,” brought together media professionals, union elders, and public figures to celebrate seven decades of journalistic service and sacrifice.
Tracing NUJ’s origins to March 15, 1955, Yahaya recalled how a group of visionary journalists in Lagos, amidst Nigeria’s independence struggle, came together not only to demand better welfare but also to champion national development. He praised founding figures like Mobolaji Odunewu and Chief Olu Oyesanya for laying the foundation of a union rooted in ethics, national service, and the pursuit of justice.
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“From a simple platform for negotiating with publishers, the NUJ has evolved into a formidable institution that contributes meaningfully to national discourse,” he said. “Our presence is now felt across 37 state councils, six zones, and countless chapels in media organisations nationwide.”
Highlighting the Union’s growing institutional strength, Yahaya noted the establishment of affiliate bodies such as the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), and the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), which have broadened the reach and relevance of the journalistic profession.
He emphasized that the history of NUJ is deeply intertwined with Nigeria’s political history. “We have stood with the nation through its most turbulent times—reporting the civil war, military coups, democratic transitions, and ongoing national reforms. Our role as agenda-setters and truth-bearers has been indispensable.”
In light of Nigeria’s current socio-political challenges, especially the insecurity plaguing Katsina State and the Northwest region, the NUJ President charged journalists to uphold professionalism and ethical standards in their reportage, particularly in conflict zones.
“We must report with empathy, accuracy, and responsibility,” he urged. “Our stories should aim to heal and unite, not to divide or incite.”
While reiterating the Union’s commitment to press freedom and government accountability, Yahaya stressed the importance of ethical journalism and the dangers of misinformation. He also paid tribute to the country’s armed forces, commending their sacrifices in defending the nation, while calling on them to operate within the bounds of the constitution and human rights norms.
As the Union marks its 70th anniversary, Yahaya called for a renewed commitment from members to uphold the founding ideals of the NUJ. “Let us build a stronger, more respected, and more impactful Union—one that continues to shape national conversations and defend
By PRNigeria
