Southwest chieftain of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Alhassan Yahaya on his election as the President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ). Yahaya emerged victorious at the 8th Triennial National Delegates Conference held on November 27, 2024, in Owerri, Imo State.
In a statement released on Sunday, Ambassador Ajadi commended the NUJ for conducting a smooth and rancor-free election, describing Yahaya’s decisive win as a reflection of the members’ confidence in his leadership abilities. Yahaya secured 436 votes, outpacing his rivals, Dele Atunbi, who garnered 97 votes, and Muhammed Garuba, who received 39 votes.
Ajadi also congratulated other members of the newly elected NUJ executive and acknowledged the pivotal role played by Oyo NUJ Chairman, Ademola Babalola, in Yahaya’s campaign. He lauded Babalola and his team for their dedication and meticulous efforts, which he said contributed to Yahaya’s landslide victory.
Highlighting Yahaya’s previous experience as a former deputy president of the NUJ, Ajadi expressed confidence in his ability to guide the Union effectively. He urged the new NUJ leadership to continue fulfilling the Union’s constitutional roles with renewed patriotic vigor, staying true to the vision of Nigeria’s journalism pioneers.
“May I remind you that you are assuming this position at a critical time when the journalism profession faces infiltration by untrained and unethical practitioners,” Ajadi stated. “As NUJ President, I encourage you and your team to address these malpractices and ensure adherence to journalism ethics. Your tenure should reflect a strengthened commitment to upholding the principles of the profession.”
Ajadi concluded by wishing Yahaya and his executive team a successful and impactful term in office, emphasizing the importance of ethical reforms and professionalism to safeguard the integrity of the Fourth Estate of the Realm.
