Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
Governor Agbu Kefas has bagged the Security Man of the year twenty twenty five award.
The award presentation was performed by the Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ Taraba State Council during the grand finale of the 2025 Press week in Jalingo.
Also presented with awards are Chief Dr. David Sabo Kente the Philanthropist Man of the year, Member Representing Gassol/Bali Federal Constituency, Hon. Jafaru Yakubu Ciroma as the Outstanding Representative of the year and The Revenue Man of the year Award went to the Chairman Taraba State Revenue Service, Retired Brigadier General Aliyu Faransa.
Commissioner Ministry Women Affairs and Child Development, Hon. Mary Sinjen, award of Leadership Impact of the year, Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre,FMC Jalingo, Doctor Aisha Adamu, award of Outstanding Leadership of the year, the Outstanding Local Government Council Chairman of the year Award was presented to the ALGON Chairman and Chairman of Jalingo Local Government Council Aminu Jauro Hassan.
Others are, Magaji Hunkuyi of the Daily Trust Newspaper bagged the Community Journalism Impact Award while Ben Adaji of Aljazeera Newspaper, bagged Lifetime Bravery and Golden Pen Award.
In his remarks, the Chairman Central Planning Committee of the twenty twenty five Press week and the Vice Chairman of the NUJ Taraba State Council Comrade Adamu Also, said that the awardees were picked based on their meritorious services to the Society.
In his paper presentation, the Guest Speaker, and former National Secretary of the NUJ, Shu’aibu Usman Leman express his sincere gratitude to the Taraba State Council of the NUJ for inviting him to the Press Week, which is taking place after a considerable hiatus.
He said that Taraba State boasts a wealth of diverse and significant potential, not least in the realm of agriculture.
“Furthermore, it is instructive to recall that the state had faced substantial challenges stemming from insecurity, which at one point threatened to render the state capital, Jalingo, a no-go zone for those residing outside its borders.
“It is also worth noting the efforts of the Armed Forces, the Police and other security personnel who it seems have put in place a commendable security architecture for the State.
He pointed out that the situation has seen considerable improvement of late, largely due to the efforts of a young and energetic Governor who is clearly determined to effect positive change.
“It is crucial for journalists to recognise that whilst the media and government may operate as institutional scrutineers, they are nonetheless vital stakeholders in the Nigerian project.
He urge Journalists to engage constructively and thoroughly with the Government of Taraba State as Taraba State is, arguably, under-reported.
“The Government, for its part, should appreciate that development and a vibrant media must progress in tandem to achieve meaningful milestones.
“My paper today provides a comprehensive historical overview of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and argues for the pivotal role of ethical journalism, particularly through the prism of “peace journalism,” in cultivating peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and national development within Nigeria.
The paper underscores the NUJ’s 70-year history and the evolving responsibilities of journalists within a society that is often complex and prone to conflict.
The paper commences by establishing the historical context of the NUJ’s formation in 1955, directly linking it to Nigeria’s struggle for independence. It highlights the initial hurdles faced by early journalists, many of whom possessed limited formal education but were driven by a desire for improved working conditions.
“The crucial role of figures such as Chief Olu Oyesanya in the union’s establishment and the initial composition of its leadership, predominantly comprising government information officers, is noted, alongside the early limitations of the NUJ’s constitution and the lack of trade union expertise amongst its initial operators.
The paper details the significant intervention of journalists in Lagos and the Western Region who campaigned for the NUJ’s inclusion in the Abiodun programme, overcoming initial resistance and leading to the union’s restructuring in 1977.
“This restructuring mandated the appointment of a full-time National Secretary possessing relevant industry and trade union knowledge, thereby significantly strengthening the NUJ.
The paper also charts the geographical expansion of the NUJ from its origins in Lagos to the establishment of councils in Ibadan, Enugu, Kaduna, and Benin, culminating in the current structure of 36 state councils and the FCT, six zones, and numerous chapels, all coordinated by a National Secretariat in Abuja.
The paper examines the historical trajectory of journalism in Nigeria, tracing its roots back to the mid-19th century and its early role in nationalist movements. It underscores the power of the press in public enlightenment and challenging colonial rule, citing influential figures such as Nnamdi Azikiwe and his impactful West African Pilot.
He noted the often-strained relationship between the press and the colonial administration and highlights the considerable delay between the emergence of journalism as a profession and the formal establishment of a regulatory body and trade union such as the NUJ.
“A central tenet of my paper is the media’s indispensable role in peacebuilding and conflict resolution within Nigeria’s diverse and often volatile landscape. It defines peace beyond the mere absence of violence, encompassing good governance, equity, and justice.
The paper strongly advocates for journalists to adopt a “peace journalism” approach, emphasising nuanced reporting, inclusive dialogue, and the amplification of marginalised voices. It posits that peace is a prerequisite for a thriving democracy and raises the pertinent question of how journalists can proactively utilise mass media to resolve conflicts rather than exacerbate them, particularly in this digital age.
“The ethical considerations inherent in conflict reporting and the responsibility of journalists to provide audiences with a thorough understanding of conflict dynamics to facilitate informed judgments are also underscored.
Furthermore, the paper emphasises the anticipated role of media professionals in post-conflict social reconstruction and democratisation, advocating for a positive and inclusive forum for national healing.
The paper dedicates significant attention to upholding ethics in conflict reporting, explicitly cautioning against “hate journalism” and advocating for “development journalism” that prioritises positive developments and grassroots perspectives. It cites Prince Tony Momoh and Okunna to illustrate the challenging ethical environment in Nigeria, plagued by issues such as inadequate remuneration, corruption, and editorial interference, all of which compromise journalistic integrity.
The paper then addresses the challenges currently facing the media and the NUJ as it marks its 70th year.
“These include insufficient training, poor remuneration, and the potential for bias arising from ownership and funding structures.
“The NUJ must actively confront these challenges, strive for member accreditation and regulation, and act as a steadfast guardian of journalistic integrity.
Looking towards the future, the paper envisions embracing a new era of journalism that is responsible, responsive, and deeply rooted in the public interest. This includes promoting investigative, critical, and creative approaches, as well as “forum journalism” or participatory journalism to foster meaningful dialogue.
“The need for a creative journalism that leverages intelligence and imagination for national development, particularly within rural and agricultural sectors, is highlighted.
Furthermore, the paper calls for a robust international journalism that prioritises Nigeria’s interests on the global stage, demanding critical engagement with international news and a commitment to diverse perspectives grounded in equity and mutual understanding.
“This vision emphasises an unwavering commitment to the long-term national interest and holding power accountable at all levels.
“My paper reiterates the indispensable role of journalism in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and national development. It issues a renewed call to action for journalists to wholeheartedly embrace peace journalism and ethical practices to bridge divides and contribute to a more harmonious and prosperous Nigeria within an increasingly interconnected world.
The paper concludes by reflecting on the NUJ’s journey thus far and the vital role journalists play in shaping the narrative of peace and development.
Earlier, in his remarks, the State Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Mathew Eluid Jen, said that the program is aimed at taking stock of Journalists overall duties as working intellectuals who are hitherto very curious question-full and relentless in informing and educating the masses; and to reflect on our journey so far in the celebration of our Press Week 2025.
He mentioned the theme of this year’s celebration as “NUJ @70-the journey so far”.
“Taraba State Council is proud to have worked tirelessly to restore this annual celebration, which has not taken place in about ten years.
“Our current leadership has made it a strategic effort to align our union with global standards and keep our members abreast of global happenings.
According to him, the press plays a vital role in the progress of every society, serving as a watchdog that holds those in power accountable for their actions to citizens and vice-versa.
“As a strategic partner to government, the media promotes transparency, good governance, and development.
“In Taraba State.The NUJ has been working tirelessly to ensure that journalists uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and objectivity.
“As we celebrate the NUJ Press Week 2025, it is my humble opinion that we should not be left with a scintilla of doubt in reflecting on the rich history of the Nigerian press and its pivotal role as major pillars upon which constitutional democracy rotates in shaping our nation’s narrative.
He disclose that the press has been a cornerstone of democracy, advocating for independence, freedom, and good governance. Over the years, Nigerian journalists have demonstrated remarkable courage and dedication, often risking their lives to report the truth and hold those in power accountable.
He congratulated the awardees, particularly the state Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, who has been recognized as the NUJ Security Man of the Year.
“Your dedication to promoting peace and security in Taraba State has not gone unnoticed, and we are proud to acknowledge your achievements.
“As we approach the election cycle, we urge all stakeholders to promote responsible journalism practices and respect the integrity of the profession. We also call on the paymasters of social media handlers to caution them against spreading misinformation, hate speech, and inflammatory content that could incite violence or undermine the electoral process.
“I urge all leaders, regardless of their political platforms or differences, to put aside their differences and come together for the betterment of our people.
He pointed out that the NUJ, as a professional and umbrella body of all journalists, remains committed to its constitutional responsibilities.
“We will continue to discharge our duties without taking sides or aligning with any particular individual or group. Our mantra is simple: we belong to everybody and nobody, making us true partners in progress.
“As the host government of the NUJ Taraba State Council, we look forward to a harmonious media relationship with the Taraba State Government.
“We advise the Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas to create a more professional environment in his media team, which needs serious harmony to effectively promote the government’s vision and programs.
He disclose that members of the Union are constrained in areas of good mobility and well structured press centre where journalists will converge to share views or news for professional accuracy.
“I urge all members to continue upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity in their work. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant NUJ Taraba State Council, and contribute to the development of our great state – he said.