By: Amos Aar
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has reappointed veteran journalist and Fellow of the Union, Gbenga Onayiga, as chairman of the organising committee for the 2026 edition of its Milestone Recognition of Media Icons in Nigeria programme.
The appointments were approved at the recent National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the NUJ held in Abuja and presided over by the union’s National President, Alhassan Yahya.
A statement signed by the NUJ National Secretary, Achike Chude, said the committee is responsible for identifying and nominating outstanding veteran journalists for recognition.
According to the statement, Onayiga, who chaired previous planning committees for the event, will lead a 12-member committee drawn from various state councils of the union.
Other members of the committee include Tukur Mohammed, NUJ Vice President, Zone A; Ibrahim Musa Maizare, Chairman of the Zamfara State Council; Rojab Muhammed, Chairman of the Yobe State Council; Tonye Yemoleigba, Chairman of the Bayelsa State Council; Ismail Ibrahim, Chairman of the Jigawa State Council; Leke Adegbite, Chairman of the Ondo State Council; and Ayuku Pwaspo, Chairman of the Plateau State Council.
Also appointed are Nwafor Samson, Chairman of the Ebonyi State Council; Salihu Mohammed Alkali, Chairman of the Nasarawa State Council; Tunde Olalere, Secretary of the Lagos State Council; Olayide Awosanya, Assistant Secretary of the Lagos State Council; and veteran journalist Sylvester Okereke of the Lagos NUJ Council.
The statement explained that the committee would identify, screen and nominate veteran journalists who have distinguished themselves in the profession and other sectors of national life.
It noted that nominees would be assessed based on contributions that have positively impacted journalism practice and national development.
Speaking on the significance of the committee, Yahya expressed confidence in the members’ capacity, experience and integrity to carry out their assignment effectively.
He said the committee would ensure that deserving individuals are recognised for excellence, professionalism and service to humanity.
The NUJ president further stated that honouring journalists who have made significant contributions to the profession would promote excellence, strengthen journalism practice in Nigeria and encourage greater commitment to national development.
The union congratulated the chairman and members of the committee and wished them success in the discharge of their responsibilities.(Skynewslink)
