The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has thrown its weight behind the planned upgrade of the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ), even as it called on the Federal Government to urgently address pressing national concerns including insecurity, dilapidated infrastructure, and worsening poverty.
This was part of the resolutions reached at the inaugural National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the Union held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Josto Apartments and Suites, Abuja. The meeting, which was presided over by NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya Abdullahi, was attended by members of the Central Working Committee (CWC), State Council Chairmen and Secretaries.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, NEC endorsed ongoing plans to reposition the International Institute of Journalism to expand its professional offerings and certifications. According to the communiqué, the initiative is aimed at boosting professional competence and capacity development for journalists in Nigeria and beyond.
Comrade Abdullahi stressed the importance of continuous training and retraining of journalists, particularly in specialized areas such as cybercrime reporting. He urged media practitioners to remain guided by ethics, professionalism, and a deep sense of responsibility to the public interest.
Concerned about the rising spate of killings and insecurity across the country, the NEC called on the Federal Government to direct security agencies to prioritise the protection of lives and property. It emphasized that tackling poverty and unemployment was critical to addressing the root causes of insecurity and social unrest.
The Council further urged the Federal Government to commence immediate reconstruction and rehabilitation of critical federal highways, many of which are in deplorable condition and pose serious threats to lives, the economy, and national integration.
On the agricultural front, NEC advocated for increased support to farmers through the provision of agricultural inputs and incentives to guarantee food security and drive sustainable economic growth.
The Council also condemned the activities of individuals who parade themselves as journalists using fake press credentials. It urged law enforcement agencies and the public to be vigilant and assist in exposing such impostors.
Meanwhile, NEC mandated the National Secretariat to compile a list of nominees across the geopolitical zones for a bye-election to fill the vacant position of National Auditor. It also received nominations for other vacant CWC positions including Zonal Trustees and Ex-Officios but granted zonal leaders additional time to finalize consultations.
On internal disciplinary matters, NEC reviewed the report of the committee investigating the Delta State Council leadership and directed the Chairman, Churchill Oyowe, and Secretary, Victor Sorokwu, to tender unreserved apologies to the petitioners and affected members within one week. The duo is expected to work towards restoring peace and unity in the council and report progress to the National Secretariat.
The NEC applauded the National Leadership of the Union for its proactive interventions which led to the release of detained journalists in Ogun, Kwara, and Lagos States. It also reminded journalists to remain within the bounds of professionalism and the NUJ code of ethics.
In recognition of the achievements and unifying leadership of the current executives, the Council unanimously passed a vote of confidence in the NUJ President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya Abdullahi, and the Central Working Committee.
The meeting concluded with a celebration of the NUJ’s 70th anniversary—a milestone described by the Union as a testament to its enduring relevance, advocacy for press freedom, and commitment to democratic ideals.
The communiqué was signed by NUJ National Secretary, Achike Chude, and members of the drafting committee: Abdulrazak Bello Kaura (Chairman), Comrade Tonye Yemoleigha, and Comrade Amos Etuk.
