… as NUJ President Yahya Assures Media Enhancement Bill is Underway
The President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhassan Yahya, has called for unity among journalists across Nigeria, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to transform the media landscape.
Speaking at a reception in Abuja honoring the immediate past NUJ President, Chris Isiguzo, Yahya highlighted the importance of collaboration in tackling key challenges within the profession, particularly in the areas of fair remuneration and media protections.
“We are here to celebrate someone who has paid his dues. I appeal to all of us to work together in changing the narrative by developing new strategies to elevate our union, especially in ensuring better remuneration for Nigerian journalists,” Yahya stated.
He announced plans to establish a committee that will spearhead a Media Enhancement Bill, involving key stakeholders such as the Nigerian Guild of Editors, the International Press Institute (IPI), the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), and various international NGOs.
“We will engage all relevant organizations, including sister unions and NGOs that align with our goals,” he explained. “Together, we will push this initiative to the National Assembly. We already have lawmakers ready to sponsor the bill, and with their support, we will change the narrative.”
Yahya expressed confidence that members of the National Assembly would back the initiative, paving the way for stronger legal protections and improved working conditions for journalists.
Isiguzo Reflects on His Tenure, Endorses New Initiative
In his remarks, the immediate past NUJ President, Chris Isiguzo, praised Yahya’s leadership and reflected on his own tenure.
“It is a privilege to witness this progress firsthand,” Isiguzo said.
He acknowledged Yahya’s commitment to continuing key reforms initiated during his presidency and expressed optimism about the renewed push for the Media Enhancement Bill.
“We failed in the past because we thought we could do it alone,” he admitted. “But this time, we have a coalition of media stakeholders committed to making it a success. With the involvement of the International Press Institute and the Nigerian Guild of Editors, we have a real chance of pushing this legislation forward.”
Isiguzo also stressed the urgent need for a legal framework to protect journalists in Nigeria, lamenting the current lack of specific laws safeguarding press freedom.
“It’s unfortunate that, to this day, Nigeria lacks legislation specifically protecting journalists,” he said. “We’ve been advocating for it, and I believe we are now closer than ever.”
He encouraged unity within the NUJ, emphasizing the importance of continuity and stability in leadership.
“Our hope is that Yahya’s administration succeeds, and when his tenure ends, we will once again witness a peaceful transition,” he added.
Several NUJ leaders and stakeholders praised Isiguzo’s leadership, acknowledging his contributions to the union’s growth and stability.
Vice Presidents Adeiza Momohjimoh (North Central), Ronke Samo (South West), and Zare Baba (North East) lauded his dedication and the strong foundation he laid for the current administration.
“Dr. Chris Isiguzo is a leader of integrity—reliable and trustworthy,” said Samo. “He is someone who genuinely supports and mentors those around him.”
She further emphasized his legacy of responsible leadership:
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“He is not God, but he has proven to be a guardian of everything entrusted to him. We may not have much to offer, but we will continue to make him proud.”
The event was attended by several distinguished personalities, including:
Dr. Bimbo Oyetunde, First Female Deputy National President of NUJ
Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim, National Chairperson of NAWOJ
Comrade Grace Ike, NUJ FCT Chairman
NAWOJ FCT Chairperson, alongside Vice Presidents, Zonal Secretaries, community leaders, union stakeholders, friends, and well-wishers
All present paid glowing tributes to Dr. Christopher Isiguzo, MFR, recognizing his impact and commitment to journalism in Nigeria.
