The Planning Committee of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has commenced its nationwide engagement with key media organisations to seek support and collaboration for the forthcoming NUJ @ 70 celebrations.
As part of its initial outreach, the committee visited major media houses, including TVC, Trust Media Group, and Arise Television, where they were warmly received by senior management representatives.
Dr Abimbola Oyetunde, Deputy President of the NUJ and Chairperson of the Planning Committee, commended the media houses for their consistent contributions to journalism and their longstanding support for the Union. She described the upcoming 70th anniversary as a landmark occasion, being the first of its kind in the Union’s history, and a platform to honour past heroes and recognise individuals and organisations that have supported the NUJ over the decades.
Reflecting on the Union’s founding in 1955, Dr Oyetunde praised the resilience and impact of Nigerian journalists, who, she noted, have continued to operate under difficult and often hostile conditions.
“Journalists have played a vital role in promoting democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria. Their contributions to national development cannot be overstated,” she remarked.
She called on the media organisations to help amplify the visibility of the anniversary through extensive coverage and publicity.
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In response, executives of the visited media organisations expressed appreciation for the visit and pledged their commitment to the success of the NUJ @ 70 celebrations. They acknowledged the Union’s significance in shaping ethical journalism and fostering national unity.
Among those who gave assurances of support were Ayodele Ozugbakun, Head of TVC Abuja/Northern Operations; Hamza Idris, Acting Editor-in-Chief of the Daily Trust Group; and Adebayo Awosemo, Deputy Managing Director of Arise TV. Each pledged to provide media coverage that would reflect the importance of the occasion.
The NUJ delegation included Dr Abimbola Oyetunde, veteran journalist Otunba Gbenga Onayiga, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council Comrade Grace Ike, and Assistant National Secretary Comrade Tita Onyebuchi Nze. The visits featured the presentation of advocacy letters and commemorative group photographs.
The NUJ @ 70 celebration is scheduled to hold on 21 June 2025. As preparations continue, the Planning Committee’s outreach efforts are gathering momentum to ensure a memorable and historic event.