The Society for Journalism Enhancement Initiatives (S4JEI) has charged the Comrade Akeem Abas-led new executives of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to priortise the enforcement of ethical standards in the practice of the profession.
S4JEI gave the charge in a release by its Convener, Gbemiga Bamidele, Ph.D, to congratulate the newly-elected members of the executive of the Oyo NUJ Council.
S4JEI described the emergence of Abas and his team as timely “at a critical juncture for the journalism, an era marked by declining public trust, ethical breaches, unsafe working conditions, weak professional regulation, and the disruptive pressures of digital media.
It further stated that the identified challenges demanded not ceremonial leadership, but bold, principled and reform-driven action.
S4JEI strongly advocated a repositioned and assertive NUJ Oyo Council, that will rise beyond routine unionism to become a formidable institution for professional renewal.
“We urge your leadership to decisively prioritise enforceable ethical standards, structured capacity
development, improved welfare and safety mechanisms for journalists, and transparent engagement with state authorities and media proprietors.
“The Union must reclaim its role
as the moral and professional compass of journalism practice.
“We further call for deliberate efforts to institutionalise regular training, defend press freedom without compromise, resist political and commercial interference, and hold members accountable in the interest of public trust.
“A passive Union weakens democracy; a courageous NUJ strengthens society.
“As an NGO committed to journalism reform and professional enhancement, S4JEI is prepared to partner with your administration in advocacy, training, policy engagement, and reform-focused interventions aimed at restoring the dignity, relevance, and societal value of the journalism profession in Oyo State.
“We congratulate you once again and look forward to a tenure defined by courage, reform, and lasting institutional impact.
“Please accept the assurances of our highest regards,” the S4JEI Convener further stated in the release.
