By Salisu Aliyu
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on journalists and media organisations across the country to adopt responsible, accurate and balanced approaches in reporting terrorism, banditry, insurgency and other security threats.
The union also announced the formal reabsorption and reintegration of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) into the NUJ family, in a major decision aimed at strengthening unity and professional solidarity within the journalism profession.
These were among the key resolutions contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the NUJ National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Dutse, Jigawa State, on August 11, 2026.
The meeting, chaired by NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, was attended by national officers, chairmen and secretaries of state councils across the country.
On national security, NEC cautioned journalists against sensational reporting or giving undue prominence to terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements in ways that could amplify propaganda, facilitate recruitment or enhance the public profile of criminal groups.
The union, however, reaffirmed its commitment to ethical journalism and stressed that coverage of insecurity must serve the public interest while taking into account national security and the safety of journalists.
NEC also endorsed the proposed Northern States Security Summit to be hosted by Zamfara State, describing it as an important platform for stakeholders to develop practical and sustainable solutions to insecurity and strengthen the protection of journalists and media organisations.
The council commended security agencies, particularly the Department of State Services (DSS), for their partnership and support towards the safety of journalists and urged them to deepen such collaboration.
The NUJ equally commended the Bauchi State Government for approving and releasing more than N400 million for the comprehensive renovation of the NUJ Secretariat in the state, urging other state governments to emulate the initiative.
In another development, the council praised the Jigawa State Government for its commitment to mechanised agriculture, noting its potential to increase food production, create jobs and improve livelihoods.
NEC encouraged journalists to devote greater attention to policies and initiatives promoting food security, agricultural productivity, rural development and sustainable economic growth.
The council also appreciated UN Women for its continued partnership with the NUJ, particularly in building the capacity of women journalists, and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting greater opportunities and inclusion for women in the profession.
As part of efforts to strengthen professional development and welfare, NEC resolved to organise two additional national events before the end of 2026.
It also approved a partnership with a reputable law firm to provide legal representation and advisory services to the union and its members, particularly in states where litigation involving the NUJ arises.
On internal affairs, NEC formally recognised and reintegrated the current SWAN leadership, headed by Comrade Isaiah Benjamin, into the NUJ structure following deliberations on a letter submitted by the association.
The decision, according to the council, was taken in the spirit of unity, inclusiveness and re professional solidarity, with the aim of further developing journalism and sports journalism in Nigeria.
However, NEC suspended five members for alleged anti-union activities. They are Ubon Ekanem and Edem Archibong of the Cross River State Council, as well as Dare Akogun, Mosunmola Ayobami and Usman Adamu Sabi of the Kwara State Council.
The union urged all members, councils, chapels and affiliate bodies to respect its constitution and utilise established internal mechanisms for resolving disputes.
The NEC also expressed appreciation to the Jigawa State Government and the NUJ Jigawa State Council for their hospitality, support and cooperation in hosting the national meeting in Dutse.
The council reaffirmed its commitment to building a stronger, united and professionally responsive NUJ capable of protecting journalists, promoting ethical journalism and contributing meaningfully to national development.
