Tinubu, Akpabio, Abbas, Eno, Uzodinma, Diri, Labour Leaders to grace NUJ @70 celebration

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) is set to mark its 70th anniversary with a national event in Abuja on Saturday, June 21, 2025.

The occasion, which will take place at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, is themed “Redefining Media Practice in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.”

In a statement signed by Dr. Abimbola Oyetunde, the Deputy National President of the NUJ and Chairman of the Organising Committee, the union said the event would honour its seven decades of defending press freedom, promoting professionalism, and strengthening democracy in Nigeria. It also aims to address the new realities facing journalism, particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence and digital technology.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to grace the occasion alongside other top political leaders, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas—who will serve as the keynote speaker—and several state governors.

Among the governors listed for the event are Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, Hope Uzodinma of Imo, Douye Diri of Bayelsa, Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano, Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Babagana Zulum of Borno, and former Kogi governor Yahaya Bello.

Also expected at the celebration are the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris Malagi, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President Joe Ajaero, and Trade Union Congress (TUC) President Festus Osifo.

Captains of industry, past NUJ presidents and secretaries, members of the Central Working Committee and National Executive Council, and leaders of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) will also be in attendance, with many slated for special recognition for their contributions to journalism and national development.

A major highlight of the event will be the unveiling of a commemorative book titled “70 Years of the NUJ: From Struggle to Strength” written by veteran journalist and former NUJ National Secretary, Mr. Shuabu Lehman.

The NUJ noted that the anniversary would not only celebrate its historical milestones but would also offer an opportunity to reflect on how Nigeria’s media can adapt to the rapidly changing landscape shaped by technology and AI innovations.