The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) is on the cusp of a historic moment as Alhassan Yahya and Abimbola Oyetunde emerge as the first-ever North/South joint presidential ticket in the union’s leadership race. The election, slated for November 27, 2024, in Owerri, Imo State, marks a defining moment for inclusivity and progress within the NUJ.
This groundbreaking ticket not only symbolizes regional unity but also champions gender equality, with Abimbola Oyetunde, a respected journalist and advocate, set to assume the deputy president role unopposed. Her automatic election leaves Alhassan Yahya’s presidency as the remaining key decision for delegates at the polls.
A Vision for Inclusive Leadership
Alhassan Yahya has unveiled an ambitious roadmap for the NUJ, promising an inclusive, transparent, and accountable administration. His vision prioritizes the welfare and safety of journalists, press freedom, and infrastructural development at the NUJ’s national secretariat in Abuja. Yahya plans to partner with entrepreneurs and public-private entities to unlock the secretariat’s potential, turning its vast land assets into profit-generating ventures.
Other pillars of his campaign include:
Advocating for a Special Intervention Fund for the media industry at federal and subnational levels.
Crafting a 10-year development plan to consolidate and improve upon the achievements of previous administrations.
Collaborating with international donor agencies, NUJ affiliates such as NAWOJ (National Association of Women Journalists), SWAN (Sports Writers Association of Nigeria), and other stakeholders to reset and elevate the standards of media practice in Nigeria.
Commitment to Journalists’ Welfare
Yahya has pledged to champion better working conditions for journalists through:
Reintroducing the Media Enhancement Bill to improve wages.
Ensuring full implementation of the weigh-in allowance.
Revamping the NUJ Insurance Scheme to provide robust protection for members.
Overhauling the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) for enhanced performance.
Establishing an NUJ online radio station and community radio, to be managed by IIJ students and accessible via YouTube, providing a platform for practical learning and professional development.
Widespread Endorsements
The joint ticket has already garnered widespread support across the country. The Lagos State Council, along with 17 other state councils and three zones (B, C, and E), has endorsed Yahya and Oyetunde as the union’s sole presidential and deputy presidential candidates.
Their campaign, aptly titled “Forward Together: Greater Union!”, reflects their collective aspiration to propel the NUJ into a new era of accomplishments and transformational leadership.
As delegates prepare to cast their votes, this North/South alliance symbolizes a united front for a stronger, more inclusive NUJ—a union poised for growth and renewed purpose.
