NUJ Advocates Enhanced Welfare and Working Conditions for Nigerian Journalists

Alhassan Yahaya, President of the NUJ, demands better welfare for journalists in Nigeria during the Union’s 70th anniversary. He highlights low pay, long hours, and misinformation challenges, urging the need for stronger journalistic accountability and embrace of technology.

The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhassan Yahaya, has advocated for enhanced welfare and improved working conditions for journalists in Nigeria. During a press briefing commemorating the Union’s 70th anniversary in Abuja, he criticized the adverse treatment of media practitioners, stressing that the allure of the media industry has diminished due to inadequate remuneration and treatment of journalists.

Yahaya expressed his alarm over the increasing trend of professionals departing the media sector, citing low salaries and insufficient welfare as primary factors. He pointed out that extended working hours, stringent deadlines, and poor working environments contribute to mental stress and health issues, as well as expose journalists to significant risks while completing their assignments.

While commemorating the efforts of journalists nationwide, Yahaya also highlighted the escalating issue of misinformation and disinformation, which undermine public discourse. He encouraged journalists to embrace technological advancements to counteract the proliferation of fake news, hate speech, and the various challenges presented by misinformation in the current digital landscape.

As the NUJ marks its seven decades of service, Yahaya called for a more robust and accountable journalistic practice. He emphasized the importance of investigative and critical reporting that prioritizes national interests and advocates for media literacy to effectively address the rampant spread of false information.

In summary, Alhassan Yahaya, the NUJ’s National President, has underscored the urgent need for improved welfare and working conditions for journalists in Nigeria. He has highlighted the significant challenges faced by professionals, such as low pay and stress-related health issues, and has called for stronger journalistic practices to combat misinformation. The advocacy for embracing technology and promoting media literacy is essential in today’s digital era.

Original Source: newscentral.africa