Stakeholders in the media sector converged at the IBB Pen House in Minna as the Niger State Council of the Nigeria Union of Jour...
Stakeholders in the media sector converged at the IBB Pen House in Minna as the Niger State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) held its Congress, setting an agenda focused on professionalism, institutional reform, and stronger collaboration with government for the overall development of the state.
The Congress, held on Thursday, April 2, 2026, provided a platform for robust deliberations on issues affecting journalism practice, media institutions, and governance in Niger State. The deliberations culminated in a series of resolutions aimed at strengthening both the profession and public service delivery.
A major highlight of the gathering was the visit of the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Obed Nuhu Nana, who engaged journalists on the state government’s media relations strategy.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to openness and transparency, while unveiling plans for a Media Summit and a statewide media tour designed to give journalists firsthand access to ongoing government projects.
Responding on behalf of the union, the State Chairman of NUJ, Comrade Abu Nmodu, PhD, assured the Commissioner of continued collaboration in promoting development-oriented journalism. He emphasised the importance of professionalism, objectivity, and press freedom, while also congratulating the Commissioner on his recent traditional title.
In a move aimed at expanding inclusiveness within the union, the Congress approved the creation of new chapels, including Nester FM Chapel; a Federated Radio Chapel comprising Badeggi FM, Ultimate FM, and Maw Trade FM; as well as a Federated Online Chapel to accommodate digital media practitioners across the state. The Congress also ratified the inauguration of a new executive council for the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) through a consensus process.
To strengthen identity management and professionalism, members resolved to fast-track the issuance of NUJ identity cards, urging journalists to complete their online registration without delay.
The Congress further acknowledged notable developments within its ranks, including the elevation of Ismaila Saba Favu to Chief of Staff to the NUJ National President. It also extended goodwill to Maimuna Raji Egigogo as she steps into the political arena.
Beyond internal matters, the Congress undertook a comprehensive review of the state of affairs in Niger State, raising concerns over strained interactions between journalists and security personnel. Members called for urgent intervention to guarantee the safety and protection of media practitioners in the line of duty.
The forum also stressed the need for politicians to embrace issue-based campaigns, leveraging the media as a platform for meaningful engagement with the electorate rather than relying on rhetoric.
On broader governance issues, the Congress urged the Federal Government to strengthen collaboration with the state to tackle insecurity, particularly in the Niger North Senatorial District. It also decried the persistent challenge of inadequate power supply in Minna and other parts of the state, calling for immediate remedial action.
In addition, members expressed concern over the neglect of state-owned media outfits, including NSTV, Radio Niger, and Newsline newspaper, advocating their revitalisation to enhance effective public communication. The shortage of primary school teachers across the 25 local government areas was also highlighted, with a call for the urgent recruitment of qualified personnel.
In its resolutions, the Congress emphasised the need to sustain government–media relations, ensure journalist safety, promote responsible political engagement, improve infrastructure and security, and strengthen public institutions.
The Congress concluded with a renewed commitment to ethical journalism and democratic values, reaffirming the union’s role as a critical partner in the socio-economic development of Niger State.
The communiqué was drafted by a committee led by Priscilla Dennis, with Ismaila Musa Rabba serving as Secretary and Ahmed Musa as a member, reflecting the collective voice of journalists determined to reposition the profession for greater impact.
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