NUJ President commends journalists’ resilience in anti-media environment
By Felicia Nwosu
Chris Isiguzo, President, Nigeria Union of Journalist (NUJ), has commended the resilience, doggedness and audacity of Nigerian journalists in the discharge of their duties as the fourth estate of the realm, watchdog and agenda setter of the society amidst hostility and poor working conditions. The union leader noted that as good as the ideals of press freedom are, some journalists in Nigeria, Africa and indeed, the world over, have continued to face harassment, threats, physical assault, imprisonment and even death in the course of discharging their legitimate duties.
Chief Isiguzo decried the plight of journalists, while delivering his welcome address at the maiden edition of the NUJ Annual Milestone Recognition of Media Icons in Nigeria, with the theme: “The Role of the Media in the 2023 General Elections,” held recently in Lagos.
“This recognition is being organized to celebrate and honour some media icons, and to motivate other journalists to promote quality journalism, press freedom and good governance in Nigeria. All our deeds are worthy of being celebrated. It is gratifying knowing the efforts and dedication exhibited over the years by our colleagues, and senior colleagues in the profession. It is equally an opportunity and a privilege to have worked with some of the best minds,” he said.
The union leader lauded the immense contribution of the men of the press while empathizing with them on the various challenges stunting the growth of journalism in Nigeria.
“What makes it special is that we have carefully studied the roles played by these eminent Nigerians over the years in the development of the profession. We want to let the recipients know that somebody somewhere has taken due cognizance of your efforts, initiatives and work. This is indeed our token of appreciation to you. Obviously you’ve withstood the test of time in the midst of the obvious challenges, economic challenges that have continued to stare us in the face – take it to the bank that we indeed appreciate your efforts,” he stated.
Chief Isiguzo reiterated that NUJ is committed to ensuring a better wellbeing for its members.
“For us at the UG, it is always good to celebrate our unique professionals. Oftentimes this set of people are ignored; but today we have come together as the front liners to celebrate our entrepreneurs. This is the first time we are doing it and we intend to make it an annual affair. For some of our most senior colleagues, they remain icons and role models to be cherished by all Nigerians, while to those still practicing, this is a motivational location which we hope will spur them into sailing more and more.
“We believe it is an honour and confidence boost to be so recognized and we are immensely proud that this is coming at this time. The recipients provide shining examples of professional excellence. They inspire us and we truly appreciate them for who they are, what they’ve done and what they are doing. We are of the opinion that as ambassadors, we will continue these big storytelling qualities that made them stand out once more,” he assured.
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