RIVERS NUJ HOLDS INAUGURAL CONGRESS, SETS AGENDA FOR BAZIA-LED ADMINISTRATION

                

L-R: The Council's Secretary, Dr Ijeoma Tubosia & Council;'s Chairman, Comrade Paul Bazia-Nsaneh


By Dr Helen Chimezie

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State Council, on Thursday, 17 April, 2025, held its first congress under the leadership of Comrade Paul Bazia-Nsaneh, setting a tone of inclusiveness, commitment, and renewed direction for the union.

In his opening remarks, Chairman of the State Council, Comrade Bazia, expressed gratitude to members for their unwavering support during the last council election. He pledged to maintain an open-door policy, emphasizing his readiness to accept constructive criticism and always keep a listening ear to the concerns of members.

He also urged members to prioritize punctuality, stating that future meetings will commence at the scheduled time, regardless of attendance.

A major highlight of the congress was the inauguration of a five-man committee, chaired by Paul Damgbor, to explore modalities for celebrating the 2025 World Press Freedom Day, coming up on Saturday, May 3, 2025. This move signals the council’s dedication to upholding press freedom and deepening advocacy around the rights and responsibilities of journalists.

Group photograph of April celebrants that attended the meeting

The congress also deliberated on several pressing issues affecting the NUJ complex, including the need for fumigation, general cleaning, and structural renovation. The union called for assistance from International Oil Companies (IOCs) and other stakeholders to support the much-needed facelift of the NUJ Press Centre.

In preparation for the forthcoming May Day celebration and the World Press Freedom Day, members also discussed planned activities aimed at enhancing visibility and participation.

To foster unity and spiritual dedication, the council announced plans to hold a thanksgiving service to commit the new administration to God.

In a move to strengthen the union’s credibility and fight quackery, the congress deliberated on member revalidation. The revalidation exercise is aimed at ensuring that only duly recognized and practicing journalists benefit from union activities.

To foster unity and celebration, the council introduced for the first time, a red carpet banner showcasing members who are April celebrants. The gesture was well received as the union celebrated its April-born members with a cake-cutting ceremony and warm cheer.

The congress marks a fresh start for the Rivers State Council of the NUJ, with members expressing optimism about the direction of the new administration.

$$

 

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

LAND GRABBER ARRESTED IN PORT HARCOURT OVER PROPERTY VANDALISM AND FRAUDULENT SALES

APPPMON LAUNCHES ABOKI AS NIGERIA’S BOLD ANSWER TO FAILED PROJECTS