The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, has congratulated journalists on the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), commending the organisation for standing the test of time.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the Speaker called for improved welfare for Nigerian Journalists
He also urged media professionals to continuously train and retrain themselves to uphold ethical standards and remain development-oriented.
Dr. Abbas emphasized the importance of adapting to new trends in information and communication technology (ICT), encouraging journalists to learn, unlearn, and relearn in their profession.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives also affirmed the House’s readiness to support legislation that enhances journalism and strengthens media professionals.
The welfare of journalists in Nigeria remains a significant concern due to various challenges affecting their professional and personal well-being. Journalists play a crucial role in promoting democracy, holding power to account, and providing the public with timely and accurate information. However, they often face poor working conditions, financial instability, and threats to their safety.
One of the primary issues affecting journalists in Nigeria is inadequate remuneration. Many media houses, particularly smaller or privately owned outlets, struggle to pay their journalists decent salaries. In some cases, salaries are delayed for months, leaving journalists financially vulnerable.
The lack of job security is another pressing issue, as many journalists work without proper employment contracts or benefits such as health insurance and pensions. This financial uncertainty affects their morale and productivity, making it difficult for them to carry out their duties effectively.
Safety and security remain significant concerns for journalists in Nigeria. Many have faced harassment, intimidation and even physical violence while carrying out their work. Some have been arrested or detained for reporting on sensitive political or social issues. In extreme cases, journalistshave been kidnapped or killed with little to no accountability for the perpetrators. The hostile environment in which they operate makes it difficult for them to report freely, leading to self-censorship and a decline in investigative journalism.
The role of journalists in a democratic society cannot be overstated. Ensuring their welfare is essential not only for their well-being but also for the overall quality of journalism and the right of citizens to access reliable information. A free and independent press can only thrive when journalists are adequately supported and protected in the course of their work.
RN
