VIDEO: NAN MD tasks NUJ FCT to tackle menace of fake journalists

...to collaborate on journalists’ welfare, training

The Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Alhaji Ali M. Ali, has urged the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT chapter to take strong action against the rise of fake news and fake journalists.

He made the call during a courtesy visit by Comrade Grace Ike, the Chairman of NUJ FCT, and her executive team to NAN’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.

In his address, Alhaji Ali expressed concern over the growing problem of fake news and its impact on the credibility of journalism. “The rise of fake journalists, especially in press centres, what we refer to as PCPC, press centre press crew, is alarming,” he said. “We need to fight this menace head-on.”

He added that NAN was fully committed to working with the NUJ FCT to address issues related to journalists’ welfare and training. “We believe in your ability to achieve the goals you’ve set for yourself and the NUJ,” he told Comrade Ike. “There is a lot of work to be done, but with collaboration, we can address these challenges.”

Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Alhaji Ali M Ali

Alhaji Ali also highlighted the importance of ethical journalism and regular training for journalists, particularly in the face of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. “At NAN, we are committed to ethical journalism and constantly train our staff to keep up with the changing landscape,” he said. “We also prioritise staff welfare and encourage active participation in NUJ activities.”

The NAN MD also expressed his support for Comrade Ike’s leadership, stating that her efforts to break barriers in the industry were commendable. “We supported your election because we believe in your leadership. You have the drive and determination to bring positive change to the NUJ FCT,” he said.

For her part, Comrade Ike thanked Alhaji Ali and NAN for their ongoing support and emphasised the importance of the collaboration between the two organisations. “This visit is to strengthen our partnership and reaffirm our shared commitment to advancing journalism in Nigeria,” she said. “The NUJ is dedicated to protecting journalists’ rights and promoting ethical journalism across all media platforms.”

Comrade Grace Ike, Chairman, NUJ FCT Council

Comrade Ike outlined several areas of potential collaboration, including capacity building, advocating for press freedom, and fostering unity among journalists. “We want to work with NAN to counter misinformation, promote ethical standards, and provide our members with the necessary tools to excel in their careers,” she said.

The visit also highlighted the need for joint initiatives like workshops on investigative journalism and digital media literacy, as well as public forums to address key issues affecting the media industry. “By working together, we can raise the standard of journalism in Nigeria and ensure a more informed and engaged public,” she added.

In closing, both parties expressed their commitment to a fruitful partnership. “Together, we can foster a culture of truth-telling and accountability,” Comrade Ike concluded. “We look forward to a partnership that will strengthen the role of journalism in nation-building.”

The NUJ FCT delegation included Vice Chairman, Comrade Yahaya Ndambabo, Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, Treasurer, Comrade Sandra Udeike, and media team members Ebriku John Friday and Malam Mahmud Isa.