As the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) marks its 70 years of service to the profession, nation and democracy on Saturday, dignitaries including President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas among others are expected to grace the occasion.
This is contained in a statement issued by Dr Abimbola Oyetunde,
Deputy National President & Chairman, Organising Committee.
The statement said the grand national event would be held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, under the theme:
“Redefining Media Practice in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.”
The Union said the occasion will not only honour its historic journey but also confront the pressing realities shaping modern journalism.
“This is a celebration of the NUJ’s 70 years of unwavering commitment to protecting media freedom, advancing professionalism, and defending democracy.
“It is also a time to reflect deeply on the disruptive changes in media practice, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence and digital manipulation,” Dr Oyetunde stated
“Expected to attend are top national leaders, including: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio; and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas (Keynote Speaker)”.
Others are: Gov. Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Gov. Hope Uzodinma (Imo State), Sen. Douye Diri (Governor Bayelsa), Alhaji Muhammed Inuwa (Governor Gombe), Bala Mohammed, Veteran Journalist (Governor Bauchi), Abba Kanir Yusuf (Governor Kano), Engr Seyi Makinde (Governor Oyo), Prof. Babagana Zulum (Governor Borno), and Yahya Bello (Former Governor Kogi).
The remaining are Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and TUC President, Comrade Festus Osifo
According to the statement, also expected are Captains of Industry, all national officers of the Union, past NUJ presidents and secretaries, members of the Central Working Committee and NEC, as well as leaders of NAWOJ, who will be specially honoured for their contributions.
“A major highlight of the celebration will be the unveiling of a commemorative book titled ‘70 Years of the NUJ: From Struggle to Strength’, authored by former NUJ National Secretary, Mr. Shuaibu Lehman, who has devoted over three decades to the Union.
“The NUJ @70 celebration underscores the union’s pivotal role in safeguarding press freedom, holding power accountable, and navigating the complexities of a fast-evolving media ecosystem. It promises to be a defining gathering of stakeholders shaping the future of journalism in Nigeria,” the statement added.
