The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) recently concluded its 8th Triennial National Conference at Sam Mbakwe Hall, Rockview Hotel in Owerri, Imo State.
The event brought together members of the fourth estate of the realm across the nation to deliberate on critical issues affecting the journalism profession and its role in promoting democracy.
Themed "Media and Democracy: Journalist's Role in Holding Leaders Accountable," the conference featured a public lecture delivered by the President of the National Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, who was represented by Professor Okey Ikechukwu. In his presentation, Professor Ikechukwu underscored the pivotal role of journalists as watchdogs in a democratic society, emphasizing the need for ethical practices to ensure accountability and transparency in governance.
"The media serves as the backbone of democracy but this role can only be effectively fulfilled when journalists adhere to ethical principles and professionalism," Professor Ikechukwu stated, urging practitioners to resist biases and prioritize fact-checking.
The Special Guest of Honour, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, described the conference's theme as timely. He highlighted the challenges posed by misinformation and fake news, exacerbated by the rise of citizen journalism on social media platforms. Governor Uzodimma emphasized the necessity for a free and independent press in strengthening Nigeria's democracy, thereby calling on journalists to adapt to digital advancements by undertaking regular training and monetizing their digital platforms.
"Professionalism in journalism is critical in holding leaders accountable. However, the rise of untrained individuals disseminating information through social media has eroded the gatekeeping role of traditional media," Governor Uzodimma said. He urged journalists to reclaim their role by upholding standards of fairness, accuracy, and objectivity.
The immediate past National President of NUJ, Comrade Chris Isiguzo, reflected on the union's achievements under his six-year tenure. He commended members for their commitment to Nigeria's development and urged them to extend the same support to the newly elected executives.
"Democracy thrives on accountability, transparency, and inclusiveness, and these ideals cannot be achieved without an active and responsible media. I urge all members to continue advancing the union's growth and welfare," Comrade Isiguzo stated.
Delegates from Ebonyi State, led by the State Chairman, Comrade Samson Nwafor, expressed their support for the new leadership and pledged to uphold the union's values. Comrade Nwafor commended the outgoing executives for their proactive leadership and congratulated the newly elected National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, and his team.
The conference also featured the decoration of Governor Uzodimma as a "Fellow of the Nigeria Union of Journalists" and "Grand Patron of the Imo State Council of NUJ." Other distinguished individuals were similarly honored for their contributions to the union's growth.
A significant highlight of the event was the election of new national executives. Comrade Alhassan Yahya emerged as the new National President, securing 436 votes to defeat Comrade Dele Atunbi and Comrade Muhammed Garba, who garnered 97 and 39 votes, respectively.
The conference concluded with a renewed call for professionalism, unity, and resilience among journalists to navigate
the challenges of modern-day journalism and upholding the principles of democracy.
