Premium Times partners NUJ FCT on capacity building, ethical journalism

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council has teamed up with Premium Times to support press freedom, capacity building, ethical journalism, and the well-being of journalists. This collaboration aims to provide better training, improve working conditions, and enhance the professional development of journalists.

During a courtesy visit to Premium Times’ office on Tuesday, Comrade Grace Ike, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, emphasised that the visit symbolised a shared commitment to strengthening the role of journalism in shaping Nigeria’s future. Ike was accompanied by other union members, including Vice Chairman Yahaya Ndambabo, Secretary of Council, Jide Oyekunle, and Treasurer, Comrade Sandra Udeike.

Premium Times’ Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Musikilu Mojeed, warmly received the NUJ delegation. Ike described Premium Times as a leading media outlet with a strong reputation for credibility, both in Nigeria and internationally. She highlighted the importance of advocating for journalists’ welfare and their professional growth, especially in today’s rapidly evolving media landscape.

Ike explained that the NUJ FCT Chapter has always been at the forefront of promoting journalists’ rights and ensuring they have the tools and resources to succeed. She said, “Our main goal is to safeguard journalists’ welfare and protect their rights in every aspect of their work. We push for better working conditions, legal protection, and provide ongoing training to help our members thrive.”

She added that the NUJ is committed to maintaining the highest ethical standards in journalism, promoting integrity, and ensuring that journalists can work in an environment that allows them to do their jobs responsibly and freely.

“Today’s visit is part of our broader goal of building strong partnerships with leading media outlets like Premium Times. Together, we can work on initiatives that advance journalism, improve media standards, and promote press freedom,” Ike stated.

Mr. Mojeed expressed his full support for the collaboration, acknowledging the shared goals between NUJ and Premium Times. “We align with your mission to better train journalists and ensure they are well-equipped for the challenges they face,” he said. He also stressed the importance of ethical journalism and the need for journalists to understand and adhere to the profession’s code of ethics.

Editor-in-chief of Premium Times, Mr Musikilu Mojeed

Mojeed also raised concerns about the welfare of journalists, noting that many young journalists are not properly trained in media ethics. “Many journalists come from diverse academic backgrounds, and not all have been taught the methods or ethics of journalism. We must do more to ensure they understand and follow the correct practices,” he said.

He also highlighted the importance of supporting journalists’ welfare, including access to health insurance, life assurance, and pension schemes. “For journalism to thrive, journalists must be properly supported. Media organizations should ensure their staff are treated fairly and have the resources they need to do their work well.”

The two organisations discussed the possibility of joint initiatives, including training workshops, public forums, and investigative reporting collaborations. Mojeed stressed the need for journalists to remain socially and economically responsible, especially in terms of tax compliance and contributing to the public good. “It is crucial that media organisations and journalists take their responsibilities seriously and ensure they are compliant with the law,” he stated.

In closing, Ike thanked Premium Times for their warm hospitality and expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, hoping that together they could contribute to a more informed and responsible media industry in Nigeria.

The NUJ delegation also included media team members Ebriku John Friday, Sharoneez Emephia, and Mr Mahmud Isa.

Highpoint of the visit was the presentation of souvenir to the editor-in-chief, who also presented copies of his latest book and Premium Times bank reports to the council chairman.