NUJ President tasks media practitioners on professionalism, ethics
By Ali Baba-Inuwa
The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists(NUJ) Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, has tasked media practitioners in the county to continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics while contributing positively to national cohesion.
Abdullahi said this in a welcome address at the maiden National Security Summit on “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building” in Abuja on Thursday.
“It is with immense pleasure and a profound sense of responsibility that I warmly welcome you all to this historic National Security Summit jointly organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Department of State Services (DSS).
“Today’s gathering is both timely and significant. We meet at a period when our nation continues to confront complex and evolving security challenges that demand collective action, strategic thinking and sustained collaboration among all stakeholders. From terrorism, banditry and kidnapping to cybercrime, misinformation, violent extremism, separatist agitations and other emerging threats, Nigeria’s security environment requires innovative responses and stronger partnerships.
“The theme of this summit, “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building,” reflects a shared understanding that national security is not the responsibility of security agencies alone. It is a collective undertaking that requires the active participation of government institutions, the media, civil society and citizens working together in the national interest.
“Permit me to note that when I was elected National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in November 2024, one of the key commitments I made to members of our great Union was to create platforms that would promote professional development, strengthen engagement with critical national institutions and position the media as a constructive partner in addressing the challenges facing our country,” he said.
Abdullahi said that the commitment was to build stronger bridges between journalists and stakeholders whose work directly impact on national development.
“The vision behind that commitment was to build stronger bridges between journalists and stakeholders whose work directly impacts national development and security. I firmly believed then, as I do now, that meaningful dialogue and collaboration between the media and security agencies are essential for deepening democracy, promoting national unity and advancing the public interest.
“Today, I am particularly delighted that this summit represents the fulfilment of that promise. Seeing this gathering of media professionals, security chiefs, policymakers, academics and other stakeholders reassures us that the vision is becoming a reality. It is a testament to what can be achieved through commitment, partnership and a shared determination to serve our nation better.
“The media and security institutions occupy strategic positions in every democratic society. While security agencies are entrusted with protecting lives, property and national sovereignty, the media serves as a critical bridge between government and the people through information dissemination, public enlightenment and accountability. These responsibilities are distinct yet complementary. When effectively coordinated, they become powerful instruments for promoting peace, stability, national unity and development.
“As journalists, we recognise our constitutional and professional obligation to provide accurate, balanced and responsible reporting. In an era where information can influence perceptions, shape public opinion and affect national security outcomes, the media must continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics while contributing positively to national cohesion,” he said.
Abdullahi said that the Summit provided a platform for dialogue, experience-sharing and constructive engagement between the media practitioners and security institutions.
“This summit provides a unique platform for dialogue, experience-sharing and constructive engagement between media practitioners and security institutions. It is our expectation that the discussions and recommendations emerging from this gathering will strengthen trust, deepen mutual understanding and enhance cooperation in addressing our nation’s security challenges.
“A major highlight of today’s programme will be the presentation by Professor Okey Okechukwu, Executive Director of Development SPECS Academy, on the topic, “The Media as Impact Multiplier in Military Operations and National Development.” This paper is particularly relevant to the theme of our summit as it explores the strategic role of the media in supporting national security objectives, shaping public perception, promoting national unity and contributing to sustainable national development. We look forward to the valuable insights and recommendations that will emerge from this presentation and the discussions that will follow.
“I wish to place on record the deep appreciation of the Nigeria Union of Journalists to the Department of State Services for its partnership in organising this summit. In particular, we commend the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, mni, for his exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to fostering constructive engagement between the Service and the media.
“Under his leadership, the DSS has continued to demonstrate a clear appreciation of the media’s vital role in nation building and national security. His openness to dialogue, commitment to professional engagement and support for stronger collaboration between journalists and security agencies have helped to build greater mutual understanding and trust. This summit is a reflection of that vision and an affirmation of what can be achieved when security institutions and the media work together in pursuit of the national interest,” he said.
Abdullahi added: “We are confident that this collaboration will serve as a model for strengthening partnerships among key institutions of our democracy and contribute significantly to addressing the challenges confronting our nation.
“I also wish to express our profound appreciation to our distinguished Chairman of the Occasion and Chief Host, the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, for honouring our invitation. Your presence underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to responsible information management, public enlightenment and national cohesion. We are deeply grateful for your continued support for initiatives aimed at strengthening the relationship between government, the media and the Nigerian people.
“I equally acknowledge and appreciate the presence of our distinguished security chiefs, policymakers, media executives, scholars and development partners who have accepted to be part of this important national conversation. Your participation reflects our collective commitment to building a more secure and prosperous Nigeria.
“As we engage in the sessions ahead, particularly the interactive dialogue with the heads of our security agencies, I encourage all participants to contribute openly, constructively and patriotically. Let us use this opportunity to deepen understanding, strengthen cooperation and identify practical pathways for enhancing the role of both the media and security institutions in nation building.
“As we deliberate, let us remain guided by our shared commitment to a safer, more peaceful and more prosperous Nigeria. Together, we can build stronger institutions, promote responsible communication, enhance public trust and contribute meaningfully to national security and development.”
NUJ President tasks media practitioners on professionalism, ethics
