The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahya, has described the 2026 Press Week as an opportunity for reflection, professional growth, unity, and renewed commitment to ethical journalism, rather than just a ceremonial event.
Speaking during the NUJ FCT Press Week 2026 lecture, Comrade Yahya urged journalists across the country to recommit themselves to ethical reporting, press freedom, national development, and the welfare of media professionals.
According to him, “Press Week is not merely a ceremonial event. It is a period of introspection, recommitment, and renewed advocacy for ethical journalism, press freedom, national development, and the welfare of media professionals across Nigeria.”
He noted that the media landscape is rapidly evolving due to digital communication, artificial intelligence, citizen journalism, and the growing spread of misinformation and disinformation. He also highlighted the increasing security risks faced by journalists in the line of duty.
Despite these challenges, Yahya commended Nigerian journalists for their resilience, courage, and dedication to truth and public accountability.
“Journalists are custodians of democracy,” he said, stressing that a vibrant and independent press is essential for ensuring justice, transparency, and good governance.
“Without a vibrant and independent press, democracy itself becomes vulnerable,” he added.
The NUJ President also praised the NUJ FCT Council for its role in promoting professional journalism and media excellence in the nation’s capital. He commended members of the council for their dedication and unity.
He expressed concern over the persistent challenges facing journalists, including attacks, harassment, intimidation, poor remuneration, job insecurity, and unsafe working conditions. He called for urgent measures to safeguard the integrity of the profession.
“The Nigeria Union of Journalists remains resolute in advocating for better welfare, improved working conditions, insurance protection, prompt payment of salaries, and greater institutional support for journalists nationwide,” he said.
“A journalist who works under fear, uncertainty, or hardship cannot effectively discharge the sacred responsibility of informing society.”
Yahya disclosed that the NUJ is engaging government institutions, media owners, development partners, and other stakeholders to prioritize the welfare and protection of journalists.
On capacity building, he emphasized that the future of journalism belongs to professionals who are adaptable, technology-driven, fact-oriented, and ethically grounded.
“Our credibility remains our greatest asset,” he stated, while urging journalists to avoid sensationalism, political manipulation, ethnic bias, and other forms of unprofessional conduct.
He reaffirmed the NUJ’s commitment to supporting initiatives that strengthen fact-checking, digital literacy, investigative journalism, and ethical standards in the media industry.
The NUJ President also appealed to governments at all levels to respect press freedom and uphold democratic values.
Yahya reminded public officials that journalists are partners in nation-building and not enemies of the state.
He further called on security agencies to protect journalists while carrying out their lawful duties, noting that democracy thrives when the press operates freely without intimidation or fear.
In conclusion, Yahya urged journalists to remain united, support mentorship, and preserve the dignity of the profession.
He also paid tribute to veteran journalists whose sacrifices laid the foundation for modern journalism practice in Nigeria.
The President stressed that with Nigeria facing complex political, social, and economic challenges, the role of the media has become more important than ever.
He encouraged journalists to promote peace, national unity, responsible dialogue, and issue-based reporting.
“Let this Press Week serve as a platform for renewed collaboration between the media, government, civil society, and the Nigerian people in pursuit of a more just, peaceful, and prosperous nation,” he concluded.(Report Circle)
