NUJ Niger State Council advocates regularisation of casual media workers’ employment

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Niger State Council, Comrade Abu Nmodu, has called for the permanent employment of casual staff working in media organisations to encourage hard work, loyalty, and professional commitment.

Comrade Nmodu made this appeal during a courtesy visit to the newly appointed General Manager of Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) Minna, Hajiya Talatu Adamu Lawan, in Minna.

Expressing concern over the long-standing issue of casualisation in the media industry, Comrade Nmodu stressed the importance of recognising the contributions of qualified casual staff who have dedicated over a decade of service, yet remain without permanent and pensionable appointments. He urged the NTA Minna management to make a case for these deserving workers.

While assuring the General Manager of the NUJ’s support for her administration, Comrade Nmodu reaffirmed the union’s commitment to promoting the welfare of all journalists, particularly those engaged in casual positions.

In her remarks, Hajiya Talatu Adamu Lawan, who assumed office on March 17, 2025, emphasised the need for collaboration among media stakeholders to deliver effective services. She disclosed that NTA Minna is currently transitioning from dependence on the national grid to renewable solar energy, with the arrival of solar panels in readiness for installation to ensure uninterrupted, clearer broadcasts for its audience.

The new General Manager commended the NUJ delegation for their visit, describing it as symbolic and reassuring. She revealed that ninety percent of recent permanent staff appointments at the station were sourced from its existing pool of casual workers and pledged to continue pushing for the regularisation of more qualified casual staff at NTA Minna.

The NUJ Niger State Council was notably the first organisation to pay the new General Manager an official courtesy visit since her appointment.