NUJ Adamawa holds maiden congress, charts roadmap for journalism dev
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Adamawa State Council, has unveiled an ambitious roadmap to reposition the Union, strengthen professional ethics, and contribute to the overall development of the state.
This followed the maiden Congress of the Council held on Thursday, September 25, 2025, in Yola, where far-reaching resolutions were adopted.
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Presided over by the new State Chairman, Abdullahi Ibrahim, the Congress deliberated extensively on issues affecting the Union, journalism practice, and state development.
Members commended the new leadership for its proactive vision and charged them to sustain the momentum in building a vibrant Union that upholds integrity and professionalism.
In his address, Chairman Abdullahi Ibrahim pledged to work closely with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) at both state and federal levels, as well as with development partners and NGOs, to strengthen the capacity of journalists through training and professional development.
He announced plans to reinvigorate the NUJ Secretariat by providing potable water, revamping the ICT unit, installing solar-powered electricity, and expanding the conference hall.
As part of the Union’s renewal, the Congress inaugurated a nine-member committee headed by veteran journalist Mr. Austin Ajayi to revive the long-rested Media Week, which has been dormant for decades.
The Congress further urged the leadership to reposition the Union by prioritizing discipline, enforcing the Union’s constitution, and identifying authentic members to protect the profession against blackmail and unethical practices.
Members called on Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri to urgently assent to the pending Media Bill before him, describing it as critical to the future of journalism in the state. They noted that the bill, once passed into law, would provide a stronger framework for professionalism and media independence.
Congress underscored the importance of corporate dressing, ethical conduct, and integrity among journalists. Members were reminded to avoid compromises that undermine credibility and to embrace digital skills as modern journalism relies heavily on information technology.
The body further emphasized the need for fact-based and investigative journalism, warning against sensationalism and praise-singing, which erode public confidence in the press.
The Congress commended government efforts in revamping Adamawa Television (ATV) and the Adamawa Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), urging similar intervention for the Adamawa Press Limited (APL). At the same time, concern was raised over the rising influence of untrained social media operators patronized by politicians. Delegates cautioned that the unchecked activities of such individuals pose a threat to professionalism and ethical standards.
Acknowledging achievements under Governor Fintiri’s “New Adamawa” agenda, the Congress applauded infrastructure projects including flyovers, modern roads, housing estates, drainage systems, schools, hospitals, markets, laboratories, stadium rehabilitation, and the construction of a new Government House and International Conference Centre.
These, the Union said, have transformed the landscape of the state and positioned Adamawa as a model for development.
The efforts of security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, in tackling the menace of Shilla gang and other criminal activities were lauded. The Congress, however, called for sustained vigilance to ensure lasting peace.
On disaster preparedness, members expressed concern over Adamawa’s listing as a high-risk flood state and urged the government to adopt proactive measures to protect lives and property from future flooding.
The Congress commended the restoration of the Jimeta Ultra-Modern Market master plan and called for the clearance of roadside traders along major commercial corridors, especially between JAIZ Bank and Zenith Bank. This, they argued, would reduce traffic congestion, enhance urban orderliness, and restore the beauty of the market.
In its closing resolutions, Congress directed that all suspended members of the Union would face the Ethics and Disciplinary Committee to resolve outstanding disputes and restore lasting peace within the Union.
The communiqué was signed by the drafting committee comprising Mohammed Ismail (Chairman), Innocent Daniel Zira (Member), and Jamila Abubakar (Member).
