As the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) marks its 70th anniversary, the Union has reaffirmed its commitment to national development, calling on journalists to play a stronger role in tackling insecurity, especially in conflict-prone areas like the Northwest.
Speaking during a special lecture and get-together organised by the Katsina State Council of the NUJ at Al-Hayat Regency Suits, the National President of the Union, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, represented by the Zonal Secretary of Zone A, Comrade Abdulrazak Bello Kaura, described the NUJ’s 70-year journey as one of “sacrifice, truth, and service to nation-building.”
In his keynote speech titled *“NUJ @70: A Historical Perspective, the President reflected on the Union’s founding in 1955 during Nigeria’s independence struggle. He recalled how the NUJ pioneers, including Mobolaji Odunewu and Chief Olu Oyesanya, envisioned a body that would not only fight for journalists’ welfare but also serve as a pillar of democracy and justice.
“NUJ was born out of a desire for truth, professionalism, and national progress. From Lagos to every corner of this country, our Union has grown into a force for democracy, human rights, and transparency,” he said.
Turning attention to present-day Nigeria, Comrade Yahaya expressed concern over growing insecurity, especially in Katsina and other parts of the Northwest battling banditry and violence. He called on journalists to uphold responsible reporting that promotes peace and unity rather than incitement.
“Our country is under siege from insecurity, corruption, and poverty. Journalists must report these issues, but they must do so with professionalism, empathy, and a desire to heal. We must not inflame already tense situations,” he urged.
The NUJ President also condemned the killings of innocent Nigerians and commended the sacrifices of security personnel working under harsh conditions. He called on the military to continue operating within constitutional boundaries and to respect human rights.
Reflecting on the achievements of the Union, he highlighted the NUJ’s transformation into a national body with 37 state councils, 6 zones, and strong affiliate associations like NAWOJ, NGE, and SWAN. He described the NUJ’s history as inseparable from the nation’s history, from colonial resistance to the current democratic era.
As the Union looks to the future, Comrade Yahaya called for greater unity, professionalism, and a renewed commitment to ethical journalism.“This is a time to recommit ourselves. Let us build an NUJ that defends press freedom, fights misinformation, and continues to shape Nigeria’s democratic journey,” he concluded.
The event brought together Government officials, veteran journalists, media executives, union leaders, and guests who paid tribute to the legacy of the NUJ and the enduring power of the pen in shaping the nation.
