NUJ lauds security agencies for promoting safety, security of journalists
By Ali Baba-Inuwa
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has commended security agencies in Nigeria for their efforts in promoting safety and security of journalists in the country.
This is contained in a communique issued at the end of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Union held in Dutse, Jigawa State on Tuesday.
“The National Executive Council(NEC) commended the various security agencies in the country, particularly the Department of State Services (DSS), for their continued partnership, cooperation and support towards promoting the safety and security of journalists and members of the media community.
“NEC urges the security agencies to sustain and deepen this partnership, particularly in view of the increasing security challenges confronting journalists in the course of carrying out their professional responsibilities,” the NUJ said.
The Union also tasked media practitioners in the country to uphold professional ethics in reporting terrorism, banditry and other security challenges in the country.
“NEC called on journalists and media organisations to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, accuracy and responsibility in reporting terrorism, banditry, insurgency and other forms of insecurity across the country.
“Journalists are urged to avoid sensationalism, the glorification of terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements, and the undue prominence of their activities in ways that could amplify propaganda, facilitate recruitment or enhance the public profile of criminal groups.
“NEC reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to ethical journalism and emphasised the importance of accurate, balanced and responsible reporting that serves the public interest while taking into consideration national security and the safety of journalists,” it added.
The Union also endorsed the proposed Northern States Security Summit to be hosted in Zamfara State to address the security challenges facing the region.
“In view of the prevailing security challenges confronting the Northern region, NEC endorsed the proposed Northern States Security Summit to be hosted by Zamfara State.
“The Union considers the summit an important platform for bringing together relevant stakeholders to deliberate on practical and sustainable strategies for addressing insecurity and enhancing the protection of journalists, media organisations and the wider society.
All NEC members are expected to participate actively in the summit,” it added.
The NUJ commended the Bauchi State government for approving N400 million for the renovation of its State Secretariat in Bauchi.
“NEC commended the Bauchi State Government for approving and releasing over ₦400 million for the comprehensive renovation of the NUJ Secretariat in the state.
“The Council described the gesture as a significant demonstration of support for journalism and the welfare of journalists and urged other subnational governments to emulate the initiative by providing conducive working environments and improved facilities for journalists across the country,” it said.
The Union also lauded Jigawa State government for its commitment in agricultural transformation in the state.
“The National Executive Council commended the Jigawa State Government for its commitment to promoting mechanised agriculture as a means of transforming the agricultural sector, boosting food production, creating employment opportunities and improving the livelihoods of citizens.
“NEC urged other State Governments to emulate the laudable effort.
The Council further encouraged journalists and media organisations to give greater attention to policies and initiatives that promote food security, agricultural productivity, rural development and sustainable economic growth,” it added.
The NUJ expressed appreciation to the UN for its continued support to Nigerian journalists in the area of capacity building.
“NEC expressed its appreciation to UN Women for its continued partnership and support for the Nigeria Union of Journalists, particularly in the area of capacity building for women journalists.
“The Council specifically acknowledged the training programme organised for women journalists in Abuja and reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to promoting greater professional opportunities, capacity development, inclusion and advancement for women in journalism,” it added.
