Communiqué issued at the end of the NEC meeting of the NUJ, held in Dutse, Jigawa State

August 11, 2026

*COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED AT THE END OF THE NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL (NEC) MEETING OF THE NIGERIA UNION OF JOURNALISTS (NUJ), HELD IN DUTSE, JIGAWA STATE*

*RESOLUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS*

The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), at its meeting held in Dutse, Jigawa State, deliberated extensively on issues affecting the journalism profession, the safety and welfare of journalists, national security, professional development, and the growth and unity of the Union.

After exhaustive deliberations, NEC reached the following resolutions and recommendations:

1. *Commendation of Security Agencies*
The National Executive Council commended the various security agencies in the country, particularly the Department of State Services (DSS), for their continued partnership, cooperation and support in promoting the safety and security of journalists and members of the media community.
NEC urged the security agencies to sustain and deepen this partnership, particularly in view of the increasing security challenges confronting journalists in the course of carrying out their professional responsibilities.

2. *Responsible Reporting of Terrorism and Insecurity*
NEC called on journalists and media organisations to exercise the highest level of professionalism and responsibility in reporting terrorism, banditry, insurgency and other forms of insecurity across the country.
Journalists are urged to desist from glorifying terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements or giving undue prominence to their activities in ways that could promote their propaganda, recruitment efforts or public image.
NEC reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to ethical journalism, while emphasising the need for accurate, balanced and responsible reporting that serves the public interest without compromising national security.

3. *Northern States Security Summit*
In view of the prevailing security challenges confronting the Northern region, NEC endorsed the proposed Northern States Security Summit to be hosted by Zamfara State.
The Union considers the summit an important platform for bringing together relevant stakeholders to deliberate on practical and sustainable strategies for addressing insecurity and protecting journalists, media organisations and the wider society.
All NEC members are expected to participate actively in the summit.

4. *Commendation of Bauchi State Government*
NEC commended the Bauchi State Government for approving and releasing over ₦400 million for the comprehensive renovation of the NUJ Secretariat in the state.
The Council described the gesture as a significant demonstration of support for journalism and the welfare of journalists and urged other subnational governments to emulate such initiatives by providing conducive working environments and facilities for journalists.

5. *Partnership with UN Women*
NEC expressed its appreciation to UN Women for its continued partnership and support for the Nigeria Union of Journalists, particularly its capacity-building initiatives for women journalists.
The Council specifically acknowledged the training programme organised for women journalists in Abuja and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting greater professional opportunities, capacity development and inclusion for women in journalism.

6. *Organisation of Additional National Events*
NEC resolved to organise two additional national events before the end of the year as part of the Union’s efforts to strengthen professional development, institutional unity, networking and the welfare of its members.
The events are expected to provide platforms for knowledge sharing, professional advancement and meaningful engagement among journalists and other relevant stakeholders.

7. *Strengthening Partnerships with Subnational Governments*
The National Executive Council resolved to strengthen and expand the Union’s partnerships with state and local governments, as well as other relevant stakeholders, in areas of mutual interest and development.
Such partnerships shall focus on initiatives capable of advancing journalism, improving the welfare and working conditions of journalists, strengthening media institutions and contributing positively to society.

8. *Legal Support for the Union and Its Members*
NEC approved the proposed partnership between the Nigeria Union of Journalists and a reputable law firm to provide legal representation, advisory services and other forms of legal support to the Union and its members, particularly in states where litigation involving the Union arises.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening the Union’s capacity to protect the rights, interests and professional integrity of journalists.

9. *Support for Gender-Based Violence Advocacy*
NEC expressed its support for Abuja-based lawyer Olubunmi, who is participating in a Guinness World Records initiative aimed at raising awareness and promoting advocacy against Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
The Council reaffirmed the NUJ’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote the protection of vulnerable persons, public awareness and stronger societal action against gender-based violence.

10. *Reabsorption and Reintegration of SWAN into the NUJ*
Following extensive deliberations on the position of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), and after due consideration of a letter earlier submitted to the Union by the National Chairman of SWAN, Comrade Isaiah Benjamin, as well as his invitation to address members of the National Executive Council, NEC resolved to formally reabsorb and reintegrate SWAN into the NUJ family.
The decision was taken in the spirit of unity, professional solidarity, inclusiveness and the continued development of journalism and sports journalism in Nigeria.
Accordingly, the current leadership of SWAN under Comrade Isaiah Benjamin is recognised and reintegrated into the NUJ structure in accordance with the relevant provisions and procedures of the Union.

11. *Commitment to the Unity and Growth of the Union*
The National Executive Council reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the unity, integrity and institutional strength of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.
NEC called on all members, councils, chapels and affiliate bodies to uphold the principles of professionalism, mutual respect, solidarity and collective responsibility in advancing the interests of journalists and the Nigerian media.
The Council further urged all members to continue to discharge their professional responsibilities with diligence, integrity and a strong commitment to the public interest.

*COMMUNIQUÉ DRAFTING COMMITTEE*

*Comrade Gambo Santos Sanga, Secretary Kaduna Council*

*Comrade Mary Domtur, Secretary Plateau State Council*

*Comrade Temidayo Adu, Secretary Oyo Council*

*Comrade Shaibu Umar, Secretary Gombe Council*