… as NUJ President Yahya assures Media Enhancement Bill Underway

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhassan Yahya, has called for unity among journalists across Nigeria to collectively transform the media landscape.

Speaking at a reception organized in honor of the immediate past NUJ President, Chris Isiguzo, in Abuja, Yahya emphasized the importance of cooperation in addressing the challenges within the profession, particularly in the areas of remuneration and media protections.

“We are all here to support someone who has paid his dues. I sincerely appeal to all of us to work together towards changing the narrative by developing new strategies that will elevate our union, especially concerning the remuneration of Nigerian journalists,” Yahya stated.

He announced plans to establish a committee focused on designing a fresh media enhancement bill, which would involve a wide range of stakeholders, including the Guild of Editors, the International Press Institute (IPI), the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), and international NGOs.

“We will incorporate everyone, including sister organizations and NGOs aligned within our thematic areas” he explained. “Together, we will take this initiative to the National Assembly. We have identified some members who are ready to sponsor this bill. With their support, we will change the narrative.”

Yahya assured that members of the National Assembly are ready to support the effort and expressed optimism for a future where journalists enjoy better protection and recognition.

Also speaking at the event, the immediate past President of NUJ, Chris Isiguzo, commended Yahya’s leadership and reflected on his own tenure.

“One good thing is that this is taking place before my very eyes” Isiguzo said.

He noted that Yahaya had successfully continued many reforms that began during his presidency.“

Reflecting on the upcoming media enhancement bill, Isiguzo expressed optimism that this time the initiative would succeed.

“We failed in the past because we thought we could do it alone,” he explained. “But this time, we have key media stakeholders coming together to say, ‘This is our project.’ With the involvement of organizations like the International Press Institute and the Nigerian Guild of Editors, we have a real chance to make it happen.”

Isiguzo further stressed the urgent need for a legal framework to protect journalists in Nigeria. “It’s sad that today, there is no law in Nigeria specifically protecting journalists,” he lamented. “We’ve been pushing for necessary legislation, and I’m confident we’ll have it soon.”

He underscored the importance of unity within the NUJ and pledged continued efforts to improve conditions for journalists across the country. “Our prayer is that you will succeed, and by the time your term ends, there will be a peaceful transition once again,” he added.

Vice Presidents of North Central, Adeiza Momohjimoh, South West, Ronke Samo and North East, Zare Baba praised Isiguzo’s leadership, insisting that the former president laid solid foundation for the present administration to thrive.

“The President is very kind, homely, and loving. He is a true father and leader who goes out of his way to guide and support you,” she said. “He’s a man of integrity, reliable and trustworthy. You can give him anything about yourself and rest assured.”

“Dr. Chris Isiguzo is a unique individual, a man of his word who walks the talk. Although he is not God, he is someone who has protected everything entrusted to him with great care. We may not have much to offer, but you have impacted our lives. We will make you proud,” Samo noted.

Present at the event was the first female Deputy National President of the NUJ Dr Bimbo Oyetunde, National Chairperosn of NAWOJ Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim, Chairman NUJ FCT Comrade Grace Ike, NAWOJ Chairperson FCT, VP’s, Zonal Secretaries, Community Leaders, Union Stakeholders, Friends and well wishers who all hailed the virtues of Dr Christopher Isiguzo MFR .