By Cynthia Talatu Batuta
The Proactive President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdul, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to repositioning the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) as a globally competitive centre of excellence for journalism training in Nigeria.
Comrade Abdul gave the assurance on Friday during the inaugural congress of the IIJ Alumni Association held at the IIJ premises in Jahi, Abuja.
The congress brought together alumni of the institute, NUJ leadership, and key stakeholders to deliberate on critical issues affecting the future of IIJ, including accreditation, institutional autonomy, infrastructural renewal, and comprehensive reforms.
Addressing participants, the NUJ President commended the alumni for convening at what he described as a critical turning point in the history of IIJ.
He recalled that the revitalisation of the institute formed a core part of his campaign promises and assured members that concrete steps were already underway to fulfill those commitments.
On the issue of accreditation, Abdul disclosed that all required accreditation fees had been paid but noted that the National Universities Commission (NUC) had temporarily suspended the issuance of accreditation certificates nationwide. He added that he had formally written to the Federal Ministry of Education and expressed confidence that IIJ would soon secure full accreditation.
He explained that the absence of accreditation was currently hindering access to Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) interventions, stressing that accreditation remains a prerequisite for such funding.
He further revealed that discussions were ongoing to strengthen IIJ’s academic programmes, update curricula, and introduce new courses in line with global best practices.
The NUJ President also announced plans for the rebranding and comprehensive restructuring of IIJ, covering staffing, faculty development, infrastructure, and institutional image.
According to him, a significant number of his campaign promises are focused on restoring IIJ to its rightful position in journalism education.
Speaking on journalists’ welfare, Comrade Abdul disclosed that the NUJ was finalising a healthcare insurance scheme aimed at improving access to quality healthcare for journalists and reducing maternal mortality.
He also revealed that a Media Enhancement Bill would soon be presented to the National Assembly.
On broadcast expansion, he said efforts were ongoing to secure certification for IIJ Television and Radio stations. While noting that television certification is currently attainable, he explained that radio licensing in Abuja is temporarily suspended, urging members to remain patient as engagements with relevant authorities continue.
Clarifying concerns surrounding institutional affiliation, Abdul stated that IIJ remains affiliated with the University of Maiduguri.
He urged graduates to collect their certificates promptly and cautioned against misinformation.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Patron of the IIJ Alumni Association, Maj. Prof. A. A. Ambosun (Rtd.), said the alumni body was established to reposition IIJ as a global journalism institute through strategic reforms and collective responsibility.
Prof. Ambosun lamented the current state of decay within the IIJ system and called for urgent intervention in key areas, including accreditation, institutional autonomy from the NUJ National Secretariat, establishment of functional Radio and Television stations, development of a modern library, and the appointment of a competent Governing Board.
He also emphasised the need for a databased alumni structure, the appointment of Deans for Postgraduate Studies and Media Communication Studies, general restructuring of IIJ, introduction of new schools, and strategic partnerships with TETFUND, the FCT Minister, the Presidency, non-governmental organisations, and other institutions. He appealed to the NUJ President to give favourable consideration to the issue of IIJ autonomy and urged alumni to work collectively to restore the institute’s credibility.
Speaking on behalf of the alumni, the President of the IIJ Alumni Association, Mr. Reuben Okala, expressed appreciation to the NUJ President for honouring the invitation despite his busy schedule.
He thanked him for the detailed explanations and reassurances on the state of IIJ and pledged the alumni’s full support towards achieving the outlined reforms.
The inaugural congress concluded with a renewed commitment by alumni, NUJ leadership, and stakeholders to work collaboratively to secure accreditation, strengthen governance, and restore the International Institute of Journalism to its status as a leading journalism institution in Nigeria and beyond.
Signed
Felix Ojo
Public Relation Officer
International Institute of Journalism
Alumni Association