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May
SENATE PRESIDENT AKPABIO TO GRACE NUJ’S 70TH ANNIVERSARY, URGES JOURNALISTS TO EMBRACE INNOVATION
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CapitalTimesNews / 2 weeks
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The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has accepted an invitation to grace the Nigeria Union of Journalists’ (NUJ) 70th anniversary celebration on June 21, 2025. During a courtesy visit by the NUJ delegation led by its President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, Senator Akpabio called on journalists to embrace innovation and undertake reorientation to promote unity, ethical standards, and combat insecurity. Emphasizing the importance of responsible journalism, Senator Akpabio stressed the need for accurate, balanced, and fair reporting. He expressed concern over the rise of social media journalism, which often spreads misinformation, and warned that unchecked social media journalism could fracture society. “The West African pilot was founded by our great pioneers like Nnamdi Azikiwe, Anthony Enahoro among others,” Senator Akpabio recalled. “Initially, the press was established to fight against colonialism when foreigners ruled Nigeria. Even after independence, some sections of the press continue to fight government forgetting that our goal is national progress.” Senator Akpabio urged journalists to become partners in Nigeria’s development, rather than fighting the government. “The first thing I advocate for is reorientation. Instead of fighting the government, the press should become partners in Nigeria’s development. The colonial masters have gone.” The Senate President also acknowledged the impact of evolving technology and urged journalists to adapt to the rise of social media. “Let’s focus on innovation and initiatives, embrace new technology, and use our platforms to educate the public about the benefits of good journalism,” he said. Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, President of the NUJ, emphasized the need to collaborate closely with the National Assembly to introduce the Media Enhancement Bill. “This initiative is designed not only to advance journalism but also to holistically support journalists nationwide, ensuring they have the resources, protection, and professional development opportunities needed to thrive in an increasingly complex media environment,” he said. The NUJ President also extended an official invitation to Senator Akpabio for the 70th anniversary celebration, highlighting the importance of honoring members who have sacrificed for the profession and promoting journalistic ethics. “I am thrilled to announce that the Nigeria Union of Journalists will commemorate its 70th anniversary on June 21, 2025,” he said.
