ABUJA – Preparations are in top gear for the 70th anniversary celebration of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), with prominent media professionals, serving state governors, lawmakers, and public figures slated to receive special awards for their contributions to journalism and national development.
The milestone event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.
A statement by Dr. Abimbola Oyetunde, Deputy National President of the NUJ and Chairperson of the Anniversary Organising Committee, noted that the celebration would bring together “achievers and individuals whose accomplishments have earned them a place in the pages of history.”
According to her, the awards are intended to honour not just media practitioners, but also government officials and institutional leaders who have supported press freedom, democratic values, and transparency in governance over the years.
“The 70th anniversary is a time to reflect on the journey of Nigerian journalism, to recognise those who have advanced the cause of public interest, and to recommit to the values of responsible reporting,” she said.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to attend the event as the Special Guest of Honour, while the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, will deliver the keynote address.
Among those to be honoured are Senate President Godswill Akpabio and several serving governors including Pastor Umo Bassey Eno of Akwa Ibom, Senator Hope Uzodinma of Imo, Professor Babagana Zulum of Borno, Engineer Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano, Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger, Dr. Nasir Idris of Kebbi, Senator Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Alhaji Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, and Senator Douye Diri of Bayelsa.
Other notable awardees include Hon. Muktar Aliyu Betara, Mr. Tunji Bello, Barr. Nyesom Wike, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Mr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, The Kanwan Katsina Alhaji U.K. Bello, Mr. Sunday Sylva Ehono, Alhaji Adewale Adeniyi, Professor Idris Bugaje and Mrs. Yemi Kolapo.
A posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award will be conferred on the late Alhaji Lateef Jakande, a veteran journalist and former Governor of Lagos State, in recognition of his legacy in both journalism and public service. Professors Umar Pate and Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo will also be honoured for their contributions to media education and institutional leadership.
Organisers say the ceremony will serve not only as a moment of celebration but also as a forum for renewing the union’s commitment to press freedom, national unity, and democratic progress.
