News Editor
****As NUJ Marks 70 Years of Service to the Profession, Nation, and Democracy
By David Odama
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) will on Saturday, June 21, 2025, celebrate its 70th anniversary with a grand national event at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, with the theme: “Redefining Media Practice in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.”
The union in a statement signed by the Deputy National President of the NUJ and Chairman of the Organising Committee, Dr. Abimbola Oyetunde, 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,” Dr. Oyetunde stated.
“But 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.”
major highlight of the celebration according to the statement, 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. Shuabu 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.”.
Expected to attend are top national leaders, including: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas
Keynote Speakers would be Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, Senator Douye Diri of Bayelsa stste, Alhaji Muhammed Inuwa ofGombe state,
Bala Mohammed, Veteran Journalist and governor of Bauchi state.
Abba Kanir Yusuf)Governor Kano, Engr Seyi Makinde,, Governor of Oyo state, Prof Babagana Zulum of Borno state,- Yahya Bello, Former Governor of Kogi state, Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi
NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, TUC President, Comrade Festus Osifo
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, and leaders of NAWOJ, who will be specially honoured for their contributions.
