As the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) marks its 70th anniversary, the National President, Alhassan Yahaya, has called on journalists across the country to uphold professionalism, truth, and ethical standards, especially in the face of Nigeria’s growing security and social challenges.
Speaking at a commemorative lecture and get-together organized by the Katsina State Council of the NUJ at Al-Hayat Regency Suites on Tuesday, Yahaya, represented by the Zonal Secretary of Zone A, Abdulrazak Bello Kaura, described the anniversary as a moment of celebration and deep reflection on the Union’s legacy and future.
“This is not only a celebration but a moment to reflect on our past, our present, and the path that lies ahead,” Yahaya stated, as he traced the Union’s roots to March 15, 1955, when pioneering journalists gathered in Lagos amid Nigeria’s independence movement. “They laid the foundation of a Union that would grow into a voice for justice, equity, democracy, and development.”
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Highlighting the sacrifices of past leaders like Mobolaji Odunewu and Olu Oyesanya, the NUJ President said the Union has evolved from a mere platform for better working conditions into a significant actor in Nigeria’s democratic development. Today, the NUJ comprises 37 state councils, six zones, and multiple affiliate organizations, including the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), and the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN).
Yahaya emphasized the central role journalism has played throughout Nigeria’s history, from colonial resistance and civil war coverage to transitions from military to civilian rule. However, he cautioned that such a powerful legacy comes with the responsibility to act with integrity, especially amid the country’s current insecurity and socio-economic crises.
“Katsina and the wider Northwest region are among the worst hit by banditry and violence,” he noted. “In such moments, the role of the journalist is not just to inform, but to inform responsibly. We must report with accuracy, balance, and empathy.”
While urging journalists in conflict zones to avoid sensationalism and divisive reporting, he also reaffirmed the NUJ’s commitment to press freedom, watchdog accountability, and responsible journalism. “We must hold government accountable, but ethically and truthfully,” he said.
Yahaya also used the opportunity to acknowledge the sacrifices of Nigeria’s armed forces in protecting lives and territory, calling on them to uphold constitutional and human rights standards in their operations.
As the Union looks to the future, Yahaya called for a renewed commitment to its founding ideals. “Let us envision an NUJ that is more united, more professional, and more impactful — one that continues to shape national conversations and influence policy.”
He thanked the Katsina NUJ Council for hosting the event and paid tribute to all journalists who have contributed to the Union’s legacy over the past seven decades.
