The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Lagos Chapel has finalized all preparations to host a momentous and unforgettable Press Week in 2024.
In an announcement on Friday in Lagos, the NUJ-NAN Executive and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) stated that the event would commence with a fitness walk on Monday.
The committee revealed that the walk will commence at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere at 8 a.m. on Monday, Sept 23, with all members walking from the stadium to NAN Premises at the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos.
Medical tests and discussions by the authority of the Lagos State Sports Commission will precede the health walk.
“Journalists often lack time for leisure and physical activities due to the heavy mental workload and daily reports, including weekends.
“This health walk is designed to benefit media workers, particularly those in NAN and others who wish to participate.
“Various complimentary medical screenings, including diabetes tests, will be available, so we encourage those interested to refrain from eating that morning before the tests.
“For road safety and security, the committee has also engaged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), and other security agencies.
“The participants will also enjoy musical performances from the starting points to the finishing point,” it mentioned.
The committee designated Wednesday, Sept. 25 as Cultural Day, where various cultural diversities and cuisines in the nation will be showcased.
The Public Lecture/Symposium for the Week is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 26 at the NAN Multi-purpose Media Centre at 10.00 am.
The Keynote address will be delivered by Dr. AMINU MAIDA, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
The theme of the lecture is “THE ROLE OF JOURNALISM IN ADDRESSING THE IMPACT, OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES OF MODERN TECHNOLOGY ON YOUTHS.”
“The 2024 Press Week lecture is strategic and pertinent as it focuses on the current global issues surrounding technology – its benefits and drawbacks.
“The world is rapidly evolving and being shaped by innovative technological trends daily.
“With these trends and their effects on people, especially young Nigerians, various speakers and panelists will delve into this topic to assist the Nigerian youth population.
“We have extended invitations to students from secondary schools and the Mass Communications Department at YABATECH to participate in the audience.
Other distinguished guests invited to contribute to the discussion include Dr. Segun Musa, the Chairman of the Occasion and Chief Consultant, Global Transport Policy; SL Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police Public Relations Officer in Lagos State, and Malam Ali Mohammed Ali, Chief Host and Managing Director of NAN, among others.
“It is noteworthy to mention that the Special Guest of Honor for the Occasion is His Royal Majesty, OBA ABDULFATAI OYEYINKA (OYEGBEMI 11), the Ojora of Ijora Kingdom, Lagos State,” it added.
The committee announced that the week will conclude with a visit to an Orphanage and Old People’s Home on Friday, Sept 27.
“The NUJ NAN chapel acknowledges the role and influence of the media in addressing societal issues and shaping the world.
“As we observe this Press Week, we reassert our dedication to supporting a dynamic and independent press, as well as the cause of developmental journalism in contrast to fake news and sensational journalism.
“We recognize the obstacles faced by journalists today, from censorship to misinformation. We stand in solidarity with journalists who bravely pursue the truth for the advancement of our country.
“Let us seize this opportunity to advocate for developmental journalism. We believe that access to accurate information is vital for an informed citizenry and a robust democracy,” the committee stated.
