NUJ reabsorbs SWAN members back 
into its fold
By Ali Baba-Inuwa
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has resolved to formally reabsorb and
reintegrate members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) into its NUJ family.
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.
“Following extensive deliberations on the position of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), and after due consideration of a letter earlier submitted to the Union by the National Chairman of SWAN, Comrade Isaiah Benjamin, as well as his invitation to address members of the National Executive Council, NEC resolved to formally reabsorb and reintegrate SWAN into the NUJ family.
“The decision was taken in the spirit of unity, professional solidarity, inclusiveness and the continued development of journalism and sports journalism in Nigeria.
‘Accordingly, the current leadership of SWAN under Comrade Isaiah Benjamin is recognised and reintegrated into the NUJ structure in accordance with the relevant provisions and procedures of the Union,” it added.
The NUJ also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining unity and its members in the country.
“The National Executive Council reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the unity, integrity and institutional strength of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.
“NEC called on all members, Councils, Chapels and affiliate bodies to uphold the principles of professionalism, mutual respect, solidarity and collective responsibility in advancing the interests of journalists and the Nigerian media.
“The Council further urged all members to continue to discharge their professional responsibilities with diligence, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the public interest,” it said.
The Union also approved the suspension of five of its members for anti-union activities.
“NEC approved the suspension of five members—two from the Cross Rivers State Council and three from the Kwara State Council—for anti-Union activities.
“The suspended members are:
– Ubon Ekanem — Cross Rivers State Council
– Edem Archibong — Cross Rivers State Council,”it added.
The NUJ also resolved to organize additional events before the end of 2026 to strengthen professional development of its members nationwide.
“NEC resolved to organise two additional national events before the end of 2026 as part of the Union’s efforts to strengthen professional development, institutional unity, networking and the welfare of its members.
“The events will provide opportunities for knowledge sharing, professional advancement, collaboration and meaningful engagement among journalists and other relevant stakeholders,” it said.
The NUJ also resolved to expand its partnerships with states and local government councils as well as other stakeholders for mutual benefits.
“The National Executive Council resolved to strengthen and expand the Union’s partnerships with state and local governments, as well as other relevant stakeholders, in areas of mutual interest and development.
“Such partnerships will focus on initiatives capable of advancing journalism, improving the welfare and working conditions of journalists, strengthening media institutions and contributing positively to society.
The NUJ also approved a proposed
partnership with a law firm to provide legal representation and other services for members and the Union.
“NEC approved the proposed partnership between the Nigeria Union of Journalists and a reputable law firm to provide legal representation, advisory services and other forms of legal support to the Union and its members, particularly in states where litigation involving the Union arises.
“The initiative is aimed at strengthening the Union’s capacity to protect the rights, interests and professional integrity of journalists and to provide appropriate legal support to members in the discharge of their professional responsibilities,” it said.
The meeting was attended by
National Officers of the Union, as well as Chairmen and Secretaries of State Councils.
The meeting, chaired by the National President of the Union, Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, deliberated extensively on critical issues affecting the journalism profession, the safety and welfare of journalists, national security, professional development, institutional strengthening, agriculture, strategic partnerships, and the unity and growth of the Union.
