President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerian journalists to recommit to ethical journalism, national unity, and democratic consolidation, as the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) marked its 70th anniversary with a grand celebration in Abuja. Represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, Tinubu stressed the media’s indispensable role in shaping civic values, strengthening governance, and safeguarding democratic ideals.
The 70th Anniversary Gala, Award Night, and Book Presentation, held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, brought together key figures from government, media, and civil society. The President’s message underscored the urgent need for journalists to combat misinformation, disinformation, and the rising threat of artificial intelligence-generated content, particularly deepfakes and AI-driven propaganda, which are increasingly disrupting the practice of credible journalism.
Minister Idris, serving as Chief Host, noted Tinubu’s long-standing alliance with the media, tracing back to his activism during the June 12 democratic struggle. “From the trenches of that historic fight for democracy to the corridors of Aso Rock, President Tinubu has consistently stood with the press,” Idris said. He urged the media to focus on constructive storytelling that amplifies Nigeria’s progress in governance, infrastructure, and socio-economic reforms, thereby building civic trust in public institutions.
Highlighting a major milestone, Idris announced that Nigeria, in partnership with UNESCO, is establishing the world’s first Category-2 Media and Information Literacy Institute in Abuja. The institute will provide capacity building for journalists and promote ethical reporting, digital responsibility, and media literacy in the age of technology.
Veteran journalist and former governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, also addressed the gathering, warning about the unchecked proliferation of impostors in journalism. He urged both the Federal Government and the NUJ leadership to establish a transparent, verifiable membership database, warning that fake journalists risk eroding the credibility of the profession. “We must urgently distinguish real journalists from charlatans if we are to preserve the dignity of the profession,” he said.
Osoba also reflected on the digital revolution in media and his personal journey from analog to digital reporting, encouraging journalists to embrace change or risk becoming obsolete. He cautioned that the newsroom of today demands both ethical integrity and digital fluency.
NUJ President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, used the occasion to pay tribute to the Union’s legacy since its founding on March 15, 1955. “This 70th anniversary is not just about the past. It’s a bold vision for the future one anchored in ethical journalism, innovation, and fierce advocacy for media freedom,” Yahaya said. He called on journalists, especially those reporting in conflict zones, to remain empathetic, truthful, and responsible, urging that “our stories should heal and unite, not divide.”
Yahaya outlined the NUJ’s historical footprint, from documenting Nigeria’s civil war and military coups to supporting democratic transitions and current policy reforms. He also highlighted the expansion of the union into 37 state councils and its leadership role in founding affiliate organizations like NAWOJ (Nigeria Association of Women Journalists), SWAN (Sports Writers Association of Nigeria), and NGE (Nigerian Guild of Editors).
Dr. Abimbola Oyetunde, Chairperson of the NUJ @ 70 Organizing Committee, lauded the success of the commemoration, describing it as a defining moment for the union. She commended the comprehensive media coverage provided by NTA, AIT, FRCN, VON, TVC, Arise, and digital platforms, which ensured broad national participation.
During the event, several state governors were honored for their media-friendly governance and peace-building efforts, while lifetime achievement awards were presented to distinguished journalists who have made significant contributions to the industry.
As Nigeria’s media landscape continues to evolve, speakers echoed a shared commitment: the future of journalism must be digitally savvy, ethically grounded, and unwavering in its defense of truth, democracy, and national cohesion.
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