The President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, has called on media professionals nationwide to intensify their commitment to ethical standards and truthfulness in reporting. He identified the spread of false information as one of the most significant challenges confronting contemporary journalism.
National Media Summit Addresses Critical Industry Challenges
Speaking during the opening ceremony of the 2025 National Media Summit in Jalingo, Taraba State on Tuesday, Abdullahi emphasized that this year's theme, "Rebuilding Trust: Media Integrity in the Age of Misinformation," reflects an urgent national need to restore confidence in journalism. He noted that false information now circulates more rapidly than ever before, creating an environment where unverified content can reach millions within seconds.
The NUJ leader expressed gratitude to the Taraba State Government and Governor Agbu Kefas for hosting and supporting the significant gathering. He also acknowledged the contributions of former NUJ leaders, with special recognition for Professor Umaru Pate, Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Kashere, whom he described as a mentor and guiding influence for the profession.
Four Pillars for Nigerian Journalism's Future
Abdullahi outlined four fundamental principles that the Union believes should direct the future course of Nigerian journalism:
- Integrity in reporting to maintain credibility
- Professionalism in the digital era to adapt to changing technologies
- Safety and welfare of journalists to ensure proper working conditions
- Collaboration for truth to combat misinformation collectively
"No democracy can flourish where the press is intimidated," Abdullahi declared, reaffirming the NUJ's dedication to pushing for legal reforms and enhanced protections for journalists across Nigeria.
From Summit to Action: The Taraba Communiqué
The NUJ President characterized the summit as more than just a ceremonial occasion, describing it as a "marketplace of ideas" where participants would develop practical solutions. The gathering is expected to produce the Taraba Communiqué, which will detail specific measures for restoring media credibility.
Abdullahi encouraged journalists to return to their newsrooms with renewed dedication to ethical reporting and strategies for strengthening audience trust. He praised the Taraba State Government for understanding that "an informed society is the cornerstone of good governance."
Concluding his address, the NUJ President reminded attendees that while misinformation might seem powerful, truth ultimately prevails. "Together," he urged, "let us build a future where Nigerian journalism remains a beacon of trust, accuracy, and integrity."
In related developments, the Zamfara State Commissioner for Women, Children and Social Development Affairs, Dr. Aisha MZ Anka, has reaffirmed the state government's commitment to ensuring the effective operation and sustainability of the newly established Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC). The facility was inaugurated on Tuesday at Kind Fahad Women and Children's Hospital and named after Zamfara First Lady, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, in recognition of her steadfast dedication to protecting women and children in the state.
