From Joseph Adahnu , Yola
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), says there is need for practising journalists across the country to enjoy life insurance and comprehensive health insurance packages.
The President of the NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Abdul, stated this in Yola, during the two-day Joint Session of the NUJ National Working Committee and the North East Zonal meeting, in Adamawa, the State capital.
He outlined new strategies being developed by the union to improve the remuneration and welfare of journalists in both public and private organizations, while emphasising the growing need for digital safety in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
He said all discussions with key stakeholders have reached an advanced stage, saying the initiative aims at providing universal health coverage for journalists, reduce maternal mortality rates, and significantly cut down the burden of out-of-pocket medical expenses in the profession.
As part of it’s engagement in Yola, the NUJ President and other delegates, embarked on a tour of key infrastructure projects executed by Governor Fintiri’s administration.
Comrade Yahaya, commended the governor for the “laudable and impactful projects” across the state, describing them as evidence of purposeful leadership.
On his part, the Adamawa State Chairman of the NUJ, Comrade Abdullahi Ibrahim, said the meeting provided a timely platform for reflection, strategy and building a united front for the safety, dignity and professional protection of journalists in the Northeast as the 2027 elections draw nearer.
Speaking earlier, the Vice Chairman of the Union, Comrade Baba Zare, lauded the national leadership for steering the NUJ through 70 years, expressing optimism that the meeting would yield meaningful results for journalists in the region.
Dr. John Ngamsa, a media safety expert, who presented a paper titled; “The North East and the Safety of Journalists,” underscored the need for journalists to prioritise safety before, during and after the 2027 elections, warning that the period often presents increased risks for media professionals.
