The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on the Federal and State Governments to take decisive steps to address worsening insecurity, poor road infrastructure, and rising threats to press freedom.
The meeting, held in Kano under the chairmanship of NUJ National President, Alhasan Yahya, reviewed the state of the nation and welfare of journalists, resolving on several key issues.
The NEC expressed grave concern over escalating violence in Benue, Zamfara, and Plateau States, urging security agencies to intensify efforts against banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
It also condemned the deplorable condition of roads in states including Delta, Bauchi, Gombe, Taraba, Benue, Rivers, Enugu, and Kogi, describing them as “death traps” that stifle economic activity.
On media relations, the Union criticised unprofessional conduct by some Chief Press Secretaries (CPS) to governors, warning against hostility toward journalists and obstruction of NUJ leaders’ access to government.
In its resolutions, the NEC passed a vote of confidence on Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for his support of press freedom, and commended Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for facilitating payment of entitlements to former New Nigeria Newspapers staff.
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno was also lauded for donating SUVs to NUJ State Working Committee members.
The Council reaffirmed confidence in the NUJ national leadership and called for full implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage across media organisations, alongside improved journalist welfare packages.
It also warned state governments against unnecessary media censorship and urged proactive flood disaster prevention measures, including strengthened early warning systems and enforcement of environmental regulations.
The NUJ reiterated its commitment to defending press freedom, democracy, and professional integrity, while calling for stronger media-government collaboration to advance national development.