Journalists across the nation have been urged to be more professional and objective in their news reportage.
Speaking at the 8th Triennial National Delegates Conference of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Owerri, the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma, emphasized the importance of reflecting the society’s diversity in journalism, ensuring that all voices are represented and given a platform.
Senator Uzodinma, recognizing journalism as the bedrock of democratic governance, also highlighted the need for the union to tackle issues such as fake news, uphold integrity, promote ethical reporting, and ensure regular training for their members to thrive in the digital age.
He further commended the National and State leadership of the NUJ for choosing Imo State as the host of the conference and wished them a successful delegates’ conference.
In his welcome speech, the Chairman of the occasion and Senator representing Imo West Senatorial District, Chief Osita Izunaso, who was represented by Dr. Maxwell Menkiti, urged journalists to remain focused and committed to shaping democracy, promoting transparency, and holding public office holders accountable.
He added that the conference would provide a unique opportunity for participants to share experiences that will help shape the future of the NUJ.
In his valedictory speech, the outgoing National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Chief Chris Isiguzo, while recounting on the journey so far over the past six years of his tenure, noted that the significant impact of his leadership, was made possible by the tremendous support and commitment of the union’s members in advancing its cause.
Chief Isiguzo also expressed gratitude to Governor Uzodinma and the NUJ local organizing committee for their continued support in successfully hosting the conference in Imo State, and urged his successor to prioritize honesty, transparency, and accountability.
Delivering a lecture on the conference’s theme, “MEDIA AND DEMOCRACY: THE JOURNALIST’S ROLE IN HOLDING LEADERS ACCOUNTABLE,” the guest lecturer and National President of NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku, represented by Prof. Okey Ikechukwu, identified professional integrity as the cornerstone of a journalist’s credibility. He urged the incoming executive to ensure that their members operate without fear of reprisal or censorship, promoting a free and fair press.
Highlight of the NUJ 8th Triennial National Delegates Conference, tagged “OWERRI 2024,” was the investiture of Governor Hope Uzodinma as the Grand Patron of NUJ, Imo State, the decoration of past Presidents of the union, and veterans. Goodwill messages were delivered by representatives of the Voice of Nigeria, the Police Service Commission, the Trade Union Congress, and others.
