NUJ President seeks improved welfare, safety and ethical standards for Journalists at 2026 Press Week

The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahya, has called for improved welfare, stronger protection, and strict adherence to ethical standards among journalists, stressing that the 2026 Press Week should go beyond celebration to serve as a period of reflection and professional renewal.

Speaking at the NUJ FCT Press Week 2026 lecture, Yahya said the annual event should be seen as a platform for introspection, unity, and renewed advocacy for press freedom, national development, and the welfare of media practitioners across Nigeria.

He noted that the media industry is undergoing rapid transformation driven by digital communication, artificial intelligence, citizen journalism, and the rising spread of misinformation and disinformation, alongside growing security challenges facing journalists.

Despite these challenges, he commended Nigerian journalists for their resilience and commitment to truth and public accountability, describing them as “custodians of democracy.”

Yahya warned that without a strong and independent press, democracy remains at risk, stressing that journalists play a critical role in holding leaders accountable and strengthening governance.

He highlighted persistent challenges in the profession, including attacks, harassment, poor remuneration, job insecurity, and unsafe working conditions, calling for urgent reforms to address them.

According to him, the NUJ remains committed to advocating for better welfare, insurance coverage, prompt salary payments, and improved working conditions for journalists nationwide.

He also emphasized the need for continuous capacity building, urging journalists to remain adaptable, digitally skilled, and ethically grounded in their work.

Yahya cautioned against sensationalism, political manipulation, and ethnic bias in reporting, insisting that credibility remains the most valuable asset of any journalist.

He further called on government at all levels to respect press freedom and protect democratic values, while urging security agencies to ensure journalists are not harassed while carrying out their lawful duties.

The NUJ President also stressed the importance of unity, mentorship, and professionalism within the journalism community, paying tribute to veteran journalists for their contributions to the development of the profession.

He concluded by urging stakeholders, including government, media owners, and civil society, to collaborate in strengthening the media sector for the advancement of democracy and national development.