2026 Press Week: NUJ President Calls for Better Protection, Welfare, Ethical Journalism

Alamin abdulhadi May 21, 2026

The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahya, has said the 2026 Press Week should go beyond ceremony and serve as a time for reflection, unity, professional growth, and renewed advocacy for journalists in Nigeria.

Speaking at the NUJ FCT Press Week 2026 lecture, Yahya urged journalists to recommit themselves to ethical reporting, press freedom, national development, and improved welfare for media workers across the country.

He said Press Week is not just a celebration but a moment for self-examination and renewed commitment to responsible journalism and the protection of democratic values.

The NUJ President noted that the media environment is rapidly changing due to digital communication, artificial intelligence, citizen journalism, and the growing spread of misinformation and disinformation. He also pointed out the increasing security risks facing journalists in the line of duty.

Despite these challenges, he praised Nigerian journalists for their courage, resilience, and dedication to truth and public accountability. He described journalists as key defenders of democracy who help to ensure transparency and good governance.

According to him, without a strong and independent press, democracy becomes weak and open to abuse.

Yahya also thanked the NUJ FCT Council for its efforts in promoting professional journalism and unity among media practitioners in the Federal Capital Territory.

He raised concern over the many challenges facing journalists, including harassment, poor pay, job insecurity, attacks, and unsafe working conditions, calling for urgent reforms to address them.

He reaffirmed the NUJ’s commitment to pushing for better welfare, insurance coverage, prompt salary payments, and improved working conditions for journalists nationwide. He added that no journalist can perform effectively under fear or hardship.

The NUJ President also stressed the need for continuous training and adaptation, saying the future of journalism depends on professionals who are skilled, ethical, and able to work with new technologies.

He warned journalists to avoid sensational reporting, political manipulation, and bias, stressing that credibility remains the most important asset of the profession.

Yahya further called on government and security agencies to respect press freedom and protect journalists as they carry out their lawful duties, noting that democracy can only thrive where the media is free from intimidation.

He ended by urging journalists to remain united, support mentorship, and uphold the dignity of the profession while promoting peace, unity, and responsible reporting in Nigeria.