Stakeholders in the Nigerian media industry, union leaders, and top journalists gathered in Abuja to honor the immediate past President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Chris Isiguzo, for his contributions to the profession.
Speaking at the event, the current NUJ President, Alhassan Yahya, emphasized the need for unity among journalists to address key challenges in the industry, particularly in remuneration and media protections.
“We are here to celebrate a leader who has paid his dues. Moving forward, we must work together to change the narrative and develop strategies that will elevate our profession,” Yahya stated.
He also announced plans to introduce a Media Enhancement Bill at the National Assembly, with support from key stakeholders, including the Guild of Editors, International Press Institute (IPI), Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), and international NGOs.
“We have identified lawmakers willing to sponsor the bill, and we are optimistic that it will provide better protections and improved working conditions for journalists in Nigeria,” Yahya added.
In his remarks, Chris Isiguzo commended Yahya’s leadership, expressed confidence in the proposed legislation.
“We failed in the past because we thought we could do it alone. But this time, with major media organizations coming together, we stand a real chance,” Isiguzo said.
He further highlighted the lack of legal protection for journalists in Nigeria and stressed the urgent need for a framework that safeguards press freedom and welfare.
Vice Presidents of the NUJ across different regions, along with other union executives, praised Isiguzo’s leadership, described him as a man of integrity who laid a strong foundation for the union’s progress.
The event was attended by Dr. Bimbo Oyetunde, the first female Deputy National President of NUJ, NAWOJ National Chairperson Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim, NUJ FCT Chairman Comrade Grace Ike, NAWOJ FCT Chairperson, zonal secretaries, community leaders, and other distinguished media professionals.
