The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating state of security, poor road infrastructure, and rising incidents of media censorship across the country, urging urgent intervention from both Federal and State Governments.
In a communiqué issued at the end of its meeting in Kano on Tuesday, presided over by the NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya, the Council reviewed the state of the nation and critical issues affecting journalists’ welfare.
Commitment to press freedom
Reaffirming its commitment to defending press freedom and democratic ideals, the NUJ called for stronger collaboration between the media, government, and public institutions against media censorship and to enhance transparency, accountability, and national development, against
Insecurity threatening national unity
The NEC described the escalating insecurity in Benue, Zamfara, Plateau and other states—marked by banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and violent crimes—as a serious threat to lives, property, and national unity. It called on security agencies to intensify efforts to restore peace and prevent the country from sliding into deeper lawlessness.
Roads as death traps
Delegates decried the deplorable state of federal and state roads, especially in Delta, Bauchi, Gombe, Taraba, Benue, Rivers, Enugu, and Kogi States. Many of these, the NEC noted, have become “death traps” that disrupt economic activities and cause avoidable loss of lives. It urged immediate rehabilitation and timely completion of all critical road projects.
Warning to chief press secretaries
The Union condemned the “unprofessional conduct” of some Chief Press Secretaries (CPS) to state governors, accusing them of hostility towards journalists and obstructing NUJ leaders’ access to governors. It reminded CPS that their duty is to facilitate—not hinder—media engagement.
Commendations and votes of confidence
The NEC passed a vote of confidence on Kano State Governor, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, praising his progressive leadership and support for press freedom. Similar commendations went to Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, for settling entitlements of former New Nigeria Newspapers staff, and Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for donating SUVs to the NUJ State Working Committee.
The NEC also reaffirmed confidence in the national leadership of the NUJ under Comrade Yahya for “visionary leadership and commitment to members’ welfare.”
Call for implementation of N70,000 minimum wage
The Union demanded the proper and full implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage across media organisations in Nigeria, alongside better welfare packages for journalists. It also warned state governments against unnecessary censorship of the press.
Proactive flood management
The NEC urged all tiers of government to adopt proactive measures to avert flood disasters, stressing that prevention is cheaper and more effective than post-disaster relief.
