Speech by the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists Comrade Alhassan Yahaya as Guest of Honour at the 70th Anniversary lecture/ get together organized by the Katsina State council at Al- Hayat Regency Suites, Katsina, 17 JUNE, 2025
Distinguished colleagues, respected elders of our noble profession, members of the fourth estate of the realm, ladies and gentlemen,
I feel deeply honoured and highly delighted to stand before you today at this historic gathering, as we celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), a milestone that reflects seven decades of commitment, sacrifice, advocacy, and the tireless pursuit of truth and professionalism.
Let me begin by sincerely appreciating the Katsina State Council of the NUJ for putting together this special lecture and get-together. This is not only a celebration, but also a moment of reflection on our past, our present, and the path that lies ahead.
The topic before us “NUJ @70: A Historical Perspective” is both timely and profound. It takes us back to that defining moment on March 15, 1955, when a group of visionary journalists came together in Lagos, at the heart of Nigeria’s independence struggle. They did not only seek better pay or improved working conditions, they laid the foundation of a Union that would grow into a voice for justice, equity, democracy, and development.
Pioneers like Mobolaji Odunewu, Chief Olu Oyesanya, and many others ensured that NUJ was not just another workers’ union, but a professional body grounded in ethics, patriotism, and national service. From a platform for negotiations with publishers, NUJ transformed into a key player in national development, and was later registered under the Labour Laws Cap 2000 as a full-fledged trade union.
Over the years, we have expanded our reach to 37 state councils, six zones, and numerous chapels in media organisations across the country. The creation of affiliate bodies such as the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), and the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has further strengthened our profession’s diversity and institutional depth.
Respected guest and my Colleagues, our history is Nigeria’s history. We stood with the nation in the fight against colonialism. We reported the birth of the Republic. We have been present at every turning point: civil war, democratic transitions, military rule, and the current democratic journey. Our pens have built bridges, our voices have exposed corruption, and our platforms have amplified the cry of the voiceless.
But history also tasks us with responsibility.
Today, Nigeria is facing serious challenges of insecurity, corruption, poverty, and deepening social divides. Katsina State and the wider Northwest region are among the worst hit by banditry and other forms of violence. In such moments, the role of the journalist is not just to inform, but to inform responsibly.
I therefore urge all journalists, especially those reporting from conflict zones, to reflect professionalism, accuracy, balance, and empathy in their work. Let us report with the intention to heal, unite, and contribute to restoring normalcy, not to incite or inflame tensions.
We must also hold the government accountable, but we must do so ethically and truthfully. Our watchdog role is vital in ensuring good governance, transparency, and a corruption-free society.
As we condemn the wanton killings of innocent lives across Nigeria, we must also appreciate the enormous sacrifices of our armed forces. These are men and women who leave their homes and comforts to protect our nation. We thank them, and we urge them to continue to operate with respect for human rights and the constitution.
Dear colleagues,
The NUJ at 70 is not only a time to celebrate, it is a time to recommit ourselves to the ideals upon which this great Union was founded. We must rise to defend press freedom, but we must also guard against misinformation, unethical practices, and the commercialization of truth.
In the next 70 years, let us envision an NUJ that is more united, more professional, more respected, and more impactful. Let us build a Union that continues to shape national conversations, influence policy, and uphold the democratic ideals that bind us as Nigerians.
Once again, I thank the Katsina State Council for this event, and I salute every journalist who has contributed and continues to contribute to the greatness of this Union.
Happy 70th Anniversary to us all.
Long live NUJ,
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Thank you and God bless.
NUJ National PresidentRepresented by Comrade Abdulrazak Bello Kaura,Zonal Secretary, Zone A
