…Urges Journalists to Sustain Professional Ethics, Press Freedom and Partnership with Students
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), National Headquarters, has congratulated the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, on the celebration of its 50th anniversary, commending the union for five decades of dedicated service, professional journalism and invaluable contributions to society.
The student body described the golden jubilee as a significant milestone in the history of journalism in Ogun State, noting that the occasion provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements, sacrifices and enduring contributions of journalists to public enlightenment, democratic development and societal progress.
In a congratulatory statement signed by the NANS Secretary-General, Comrade Oladimeji Uthman, popularly known as Dan Fodio, the association applauded the leadership, members and successive generations of journalists who have contributed to the growth and development of the NUJ Ogun State Council over the past five decades.
NANS noted that the council has continued to play an important role in shaping public discourse, promoting accountability and ensuring that issues affecting citizens receive the necessary attention.
According to the association, the media remains an indispensable pillar of democracy, providing citizens with information needed to make informed decisions while serving as a critical link between the government and the governed.
The association also acknowledged the contributions of NUJ Ogun to the promotion of responsible journalism, press freedom and public accountability, describing these responsibilities as essential to building a more informed, transparent and progressive society.
NUJ Ogun Has Contributed to Democratic Development — NANS
The student body observed that over the years, the NUJ Ogun State Council has provided an important platform for discussions on issues affecting communities, students and other segments of society.
It stated that through news reporting, public enlightenment and professional engagement, journalists have helped bring critical social issues to the attention of policymakers and the general public.
NANS further stressed that the media's responsibility extends beyond reporting daily events to include promoting constructive dialogue, encouraging transparency and holding public officeholders accountable for their actions.
It maintained that the contributions of journalists to democratic development and nation-building deserve recognition, particularly at a time when credible information and responsible public communication remain crucial to societal stability and progress.
NANS Applauds Journalists for Amplifying Students' Concerns
As the representative body of Nigerian students, NANS particularly acknowledged the role of journalists in amplifying the concerns of students and drawing attention to issues affecting education, youth development and the welfare of young people.
The association noted that media coverage of educational challenges, student welfare, institutional development and government policies helps create awareness and encourages engagement among relevant stakeholders.
It emphasised that a vibrant, independent and responsible media is essential to ensuring that the voices of students and other vulnerable groups are heard in public discussions.
NANS therefore expressed appreciation to journalists who have consistently provided platforms for students to express their concerns, advocate improvements in the education sector and contribute to conversations on policies affecting their future.
The association also expressed its desire for stronger collaboration between the NUJ and the student community to advance educational progress, youth empowerment, press freedom and good governance across Ogun State and Nigeria.
NANS Charges NUJ Ogun Leadership to Sustain Professional Excellence
While celebrating the council's achievements, NANS urged the NUJ Ogun State Council, under the leadership of its Chairman, Mr. Akinwale Olanrewaju, and General Secretary, Comrade Bunmi Adigun, to sustain the legacy of professionalism, credibility and responsible journalism established by previous generations.
The association encouraged the leadership to continue promoting high ethical standards, accuracy, fairness, objectivity and accountability in journalistic practice.
It further called on the council to remain committed to defending press freedom while ensuring that journalists discharge their responsibilities with professionalism and respect for the principles guiding the profession.
According to NANS, the golden jubilee should serve not only as a moment to reflect on the council's accomplishments but also as an opportunity to renew its commitment to excellence and prepare for the challenges and opportunities facing journalism in the years ahead.
The association stressed that the future of journalism requires continuous professional development, ethical conduct, adaptability and a commitment to serving the public interest.
Golden Jubilee: A Time to Celebrate Sacrifices and Renew Commitment
NANS described the 50th anniversary as a fitting occasion to recognise journalists who have devoted their time, energy and expertise to informing the public and promoting the common good.
It acknowledged that the development of the journalism profession has involved considerable sacrifices by practitioners who have worked under challenging circumstances to ensure that citizens remain informed.
The association said the golden jubilee should therefore honour both the achievements of the council and the dedication of journalists whose contributions have strengthened public communication and social development in Ogun State.
It also expressed optimism that the anniversary would inspire a new generation of journalists to uphold the highest standards of the profession and continue contributing to the growth of democratic institutions.
NANS Wishes NUJ Ogun Greater Achievements
Reaffirming its congratulations, the association wished the NUJ Ogun State Council greater accomplishments, renewed strength and many more years of impactful service to humanity.
NANS reiterated its appreciation for the contributions of journalists to society and expressed confidence that sustained cooperation between the media and the student community would promote educational development, youth participation and responsible governance.
The statement concluded with warm felicitations to the council on its golden jubilee, celebrating 50 years of service to the people and the development of journalism in Ogun State.
“Happy Golden Jubilee Celebration to the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Council!”
E-signed:
Comrade Oladimeji Uthman (Dan Fodio)
Secretary-General
National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS)
National Headquarters.
