NUJ NEC in Kano Decries Insecurity, Bad Roads, Media Censorship; Passes Votes of Confidence on Kano, NUJ Leaders
Admin.August 12, 2025 —
The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has raised alarm over worsening insecurity, dilapidated road infrastructure, and increasing incidents of censorship and hostility against journalists in parts of the country.
At its NEC meeting held at Tahir Guest Palace, Kano, and presided over by the NUJ National President, Comrade Alhasan Yahya, the council reviewed the state of the nation and adopted key resolutions touching on national security, media freedom, and journalists’ welfare.
Insecurity Tops Concerns
The Union expressed deep concern over escalating violence in states such as Benue, Zamfara, and Plateau, citing banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism as major threats to lives and national unity. It urged the Federal Government and security agencies to step up operations to restore peace and stability.
Roads Declared ‘Death Traps’
NEC also lamented the deplorable state of federal and state roads, particularly in Delta, Bauchi, Gombe–Taraba, Benue, Rivers, Enugu, and Kogi States. It called for urgent rehabilitation and timely completion of ongoing projects to prevent further loss of lives and economic disruption.
Unprofessional Conduct by Some CPS
The meeting condemned what it described as unprofessional and hostile behaviour by certain Chief Press Secretaries to state governors, warning them against obstructing NUJ leaders from accessing their principals. NEC reminded them that their role is to build, not block, media–government relations.
Commendations and Votes of Confidence
The Council passed a vote of confidence on Kano State Governor, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, lauding his progressive leadership and support for press freedom, as well as on NUJ National President Alhasan Yahya for his leadership.
It also commended Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, for facilitating the payment of outstanding entitlements to former New Nigeria Newspapers staff, and Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for donating brand-new SUVs to the NUJ State Working Committee.
Minimum Wage, Flood Preparedness, Media Freedom
The Union called for full implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage across media organisations and urged governments to provide welfare packages for journalists. It warned state authorities against censoring media outlets.
On disaster management, NEC advised proactive measures to avert flooding, including enforcing environmental regulations, clearing drainages, and relocating residents in high-risk areas.
The NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, democratic ideals, and the integrity of journalism, while calling for stronger partnerships between the media, government, and the public in driving national development.
