The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has expressed readiness to attend the 70th anniversary celebration of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), scheduled for June 21, 2025, while urging the Union to embrace innovation and reorient journalists towards ethical, responsible journalism.
Senator Akpabio made this known on Wednesday in Abuja when he received a delegation of the NUJ, led by its National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, on a courtesy visit.
Addressing the delegation, the Senate President stressed the need for the media to support national unity, development, and the fight against insecurity, especially in the era of social media misinformation.
“For us, we believe in maintaining a cordial relationship with the press. The media must constantly conduct self-evaluation and reorientation to remain credible and patriotic,” Akpabio said.
He called for a shift from adversarial reporting to a developmental partnership between the media and government, adding that while the media played a critical role in fighting colonialism, the current focus should be national progress.
Citing the historic roles of media pioneers such as Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and Anthony Enahoro, Akpabio noted that journalism in Nigeria was built on a legacy of patriotism and advocacy for social justice.
“The first thing I advocate for is reorientation. Instead of fighting the government, the press should become partners in Nigeria’s development. The colonial masters are gone,” he said.
The Senate President warned of the dangers posed by unregulated social media content and urged journalists to embrace innovation and emerging technologies while upholding truth and professionalism.
“It’s worrisome that some feel good news does not sell while bad news does. But breaking news should not be allowed to break society. Let’s focus on using our platforms for national development,” he added.
Akpabio also pledged the Senate’s support for the NUJ’s initiatives, particularly efforts aimed at curbing fake news and misinformation.
“I congratulate you on your 70th anniversary and assure you of my presence at the celebration. Together, we must promote unity and secure the future of our country. The government cannot do it alone,” he stated.
Earlier, NUJ President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, expressed appreciation to the Senate President for receiving the delegation and congratulated him for his contributions to democratic governance.
He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between the NUJ and the National Assembly, revealing that the union is working on a “Media Enhancement Bill” aimed at advancing journalism practice in Nigeria.
“This initiative is designed to support journalists with the resources, protection, and professional development they need in today’s complex media environment,” Comrade Yahaya said.
He also formally invited Senator Akpabio to the NUJ’s 70th anniversary celebration, which will feature a reflection on the union’s history, recognition of past leaders, and the honoring of individuals who have contributed significantly to journalism and national development.
“Since our founding on March 15, 1955, the NUJ has remained a pillar of ethical journalism and advocacy for press freedom in Nigeria,” he added.
Also present during the visit were members of the NUJ National Executive Council and Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike,alongside other state officials.
