Stop Being Hostile to Journalists, CPS Urged
The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) convened on Monday in Kano, Kano State, to review the state of the nation and discuss critical issues affecting the media industry and the welfare of journalists in Nigeria.
The meeting, presided over by NUJ National President Comrade Alhasan Yahya, expressed deep concern over the increasing unprofessional conduct by some Chief Press Secretaries (CPS) to State Governors across the country. This includes hostility toward journalists and obstructing NUJ council leaders from accessing their governors.
The NEC declared such behavior unacceptable and reminded CPS that their role is to facilitate constructive engagement between government and the media, not to hinder it.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, NUJ National President Comrade Alhasan Yahya urged state governors to strengthen their relationships with NUJ council leaders and journalists, recognizing them as partners in progress.
The NEC expressed deep concern over the escalating insecurity in many parts of the country, particularly in Benue, Zamfara, and Plateau States, among others. The rising cases of banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and other violent crimes continue to endanger lives and threaten national unity.
The Union calls on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to restore peace, protect citizens, and prevent the nation from sliding into further lawlessness.
The NEC unanimously passed a vote of confidence in the Executive Governor of Kano State, His Excellency Engr. Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, praising his progressive leadership, support for press freedom, and inclusive governance. The Union commended his open-door policy and consistent media engagement as a model for other governors.
The NEC also applauded the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, for his unprecedented donation of brand-new SUVs to the eleven members of the State Working Committee of the NUJ Akwa Ibom State Council. This gesture reflects a genuine appreciation for the media’s role in governance and serves as encouragement for responsible journalism. The NEC urges other governors to emulate this example.
Furthermore, the NEC commended the Executive Governor of Gombe State and Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, His Excellency Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, for his exemplary intervention in facilitating the payment of outstanding entitlements to former staff of the defunct New Nigeria Newspapers. This humane act has brought relief to affected families and demonstrated his administration’s commitment to justice and workers’ welfare.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists reaffirms its unwavering commitment to promoting press freedom, defending democratic ideals, and upholding the integrity of the journalism profession in Nigeria.
The Union calls on all tiers of government and public institutions to partner with the media in advancing national development, transparency, and accountability.
The NEC also passed a vote of confidence on NUJ National President Comrade Alhasan Yahya and his team for their visionary leadership and dedication to improving the welfare of members nationwide.
