Communiqué Issued at the End of the Niger State Council Congress of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Approves Creation of New Chapels
By Yahaya Zakka, Minna
The Niger State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) held its Congress on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the IBB Pen House in Minna, where issues affecting the union, the media profession, and the state at large were extensively discussed, resulting in several resolutions.
In a statement signed by the council’s Secretary, Comrade Usman Muhammed, Chiji, the Congress welcomed the Honorable Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Obed Nuhu Nana, who addressed members and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to engage with practicing journalists in the state.
In his remarks, the Commissioner acknowledged the cordial relationship between the government and the media, announced plans for a Media Summit and a statewide media tour for journalists to observe projects being carried out by the administration, and urged journalists to remain professional and proactive, reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparency and accurate reporting.
In response, the State Chairman of the NUJ, Dr. Abu Nmodu, assured the Commissioner of the union’s full support and cooperation in promoting development-oriented journalism, while emphasizing the importance of upholding professionalism, objectivity, and press freedom.
He also congratulated the Commissioner on being conferred the traditional title of Damasani Wyiku of the Bwari Area Council in the FCT.
The Congress approved the creation of new chapels to promote inclusiveness and representation within the union.
The new chapels are:
1. Nester FM Chapel
2. Federated Radio Chapel, comprising Badeggi FM, Ultimate FM, and Maw Trade FM
3. Federated Online Chapel, consisting of all online media practitioners in the state
The Congress ratified the inauguration of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) Executive Council through consensus.
The Congress also resolved to pursue the issuance of an identity card for members and urged members to register online immediately.
The Congress appreciated the promotion of former Chairman of the Niger State Ministry of Information, Chapel Ismaila Saba Favu, from Senior Special Assistant to Chief of Staff to the NUJ National President, and wished success to NAWOJ Secretary Maimuna Raji Egigogo, who stepped down to contest for a seat in the Niger State House of Assembly representing Lapai Constituency.
Members also discussed issues concerning members and the state, making the following observations:
(I) Appreciated the presence of Honorable Commissioner of Information and Orientation, Hon. Obed Nuhu Dada, and the good relationship maintained by the state government with the media, noting the need for further strengthening.
(II) Expressed concern over confrontations between journalists and security personnel and urged the union leadership to address this to ensure journalists’ safety.
(III) Emphasized the need for politicians to conduct issue-based campaigns and effectively use the media to showcase their achievements and communicate their programs to voters, rather than engaging in rhetoric.
(IV) Urged the federal government to collaborate with the state government to increase efforts to curb insecurity, especially in the North.
(V) Voiced concern over frequent power outages in Minna and other parts of the state, calling for urgent intervention.
(VI) Condemned the neglect of state-owned media outlets and called for the revitalization of NSTV, Radio Niger, and Newsline Newspaper.
(VII) Highlighted the shortage of primary school teachers across the 25 Local Government Areas and called for the employment of more qualified teachers.
The Congress proposed the following actions for the government and stakeholders:
(I) Maintain and strengthen the positive relationship between the state government and the media.
(II) Ensure the safety and protection of journalists, especially during interactions with security agencies.
(III) Promote issue-based political campaigns and encourage politicians to utilize the media for effective voter engagement.
(IV) Implement urgent measures to improve security throughout the state, particularly in the North Senatorial District, also known as Zone C.
(V) Enhance power supply in Minna and affected areas.
(VI) Revive state-owned media outlets to improve public information dissemination.
(VII) Hire more trained primary school teachers to address shortages across all Local Government Areas.
The Congress reaffirmed its commitment to ethical journalism, professionalism, and democratic values, pledging to continue contributing to the development of Niger State and supporting the government’s objectives.
Congress Drafting Committee:
1. Priscilla Dennis – Chairperson
2. Ismaila Musa Rabba – Secretary
3. Ahmed Musa – Member
