The recent swearing-in of the new executive members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Edo State Council marked a new chapter for the Fourth Estate of the Realm.
The electioneering, characterised by anticipation, intense campaigns, and much commentaries, concluded with the harmonisation and consensus retention of Comr. (Dr.) Festus Alenkhe as Chairman, Comrades Ede Agho and Andy Egbon as Vice Chairman, and the Secretary of the Council, respectively.
Comr. Alenkhe’s re-emergence signals continuity, stability, and a commitment to advancing the interests of journalists and the profession’s ethical standards. The NUJ, an essential organisation in Nigeria, plays a critical role in upholding freedom of speech, promoting responsible journalism, and protecting journalists’ welfare.
In Edo State, the union’s activities have made significant strides, thanks in large part to Comr. Alenkhe’s visionary leadership. The executive members now sworn in are expected to steer the Council’s affairs with professionalism, dedication, and inclusiveness.
Comr. (Dr.) Festus Alenkhe’s first term brought about visible transformations in the Edo NUJ. A seasoned journalist with a track record of professionalism, integrity, altruism and self-effacement, Alenkhe’s leadership style has earned him a myriad of awards and accolades both nationally and internationally marked by accountability, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to the profession.
Under his stewardship, the Council witnessed the implementation of innovative programmes aimed at training journalists, addressing welfare issues, and improving media practitioners’ working conditions.
The Chairman also prioritised transparency within the Council’s operations, ensuring that members were kept informed and involved in decision making.
His approachable leadership style built trust among union members and opened new vistas for collaboration, both within the NUJ and with other professional bodies.
He championed initiatives that encouraged responsible journalism, accentuating the importance of ethics and accurate reporting in shaping public opinion, which is sacrosanct in a democratic setting.
The journey to Alenkhe’s re-emergence was not without its challenges, which, of course, is intrinsically characteristic of any electioneering, whether in a microcosm or macrocosm.
Ultimately, Alenkhe’s previous achievements and his vision for the future resonated with many members who sought stability, consistency, and progress within the Council.
This victory is more than just a win for an individual; it represents a mandate from the members, a clear call for continuity in pursuing established policies, and a demand for further improvements.
His second coming symbolises a commitment to build on the existing feats rather than dismantling or re-directing them.
As the new administration begins its tenure, Alenkhe and his team will be tasked with addressing key issues within the journalism profession. Among these are welfare matters, safety concerns, professional development, and ethical challenges.
In today’s climate, where journalists often face intimidation, threats, and physical harm, the council’s role in protecting its members can not be overemphasised.
One pressing concern within the journalism industry in Edo State and Nigeria at large is the welfare and job security of journalists. Media practitioners are often underpaid, sometimes receiving irregular or delayed salaries, working under difficult conditions, and taking humongous risk.
Alenkhe’s administration is expected to push for better working conditions and improved welfare packages, advocating on behalf of journalists to ensure they receive fair compensation and necessary resources to perform their duties effectively.
Journalism, particularly in regions with political and social volatility, can be perilous. Dr. Alenkhe’s administration will likely place a high priority on the protection and safety of journalists, working to establish protocols that safeguard members from harm while carrying out their duties.
By advocating for stronger legal protections and organising workshops on safety in high-risk reporting environments, the council can better equip journalists to handle the challenges they face in the field.
In a rapidly evolving media milieu, continuous professional development is crucial. Alenkhe’s administration could focus on providing training programmes that enhance journalists’ skills in digital reporting, investigative journalism, and media ethics.
Such programmes would empower journalists to produce high-quality, credible reports that serve the public interest. Additionally, offering workshops on emerging technologies in media can help journalists stay updated in a digitally driven world.
Comr. Alenkhe has often highlighted the importance of ethics and integrity in journalism. The Council’s role in promoting ethical journalism is critical in an era where misinformation and sensationalism threaten the credibility of the profession.
Through consistent engagement with journalists, Alenkhe and his team can continue to instil values of accuracy, fairness, and objectivity, ensuring that NUJ members understand and adhere to ethical standards.
The re-emerged administration’s mandate goes beyond merely addressing internal concerns. Dr. Alenkhe’s leadership will also aim to establish meaningful partnerships with other professional organisations, government agencies, and civil society groups.
Such collaborations can foster greater understanding and support for journalistic efforts, enabling the NUJ to play a more influential role in public policy dialogues. By engaging with government and private entities, the Council can advocate for laws that protect press freedom and support the professional growth of journalists.
Community engagement is another important area where Alenkhe’s leadership can make a difference. Building public trust requires open communication and a commitment to serving the community’s interests.
The NUJ, under Alenkhe’s leadership, can strengthen the connection between journalists and the public, reinforcing the idea that the press exists to serve society and uphold its dignity as the ‘Watchdog of Society.’
While his re-emergence brings a sense of stability, the road ahead is not without obstacles. The media industry in Nigeria faces financial challenges, legal pressures, and societal scepticism.
The NUJ will need to navigate these hurdles with resilience, adopting proactive strategies that enable journalists to perform their roles effectively despite constraints.
The prevalence of fake news, coupled with the increasing use of social media as a news source, poses challenges to traditional journalism. Alenkhe’s administration will have to find ways to balance the immediacy that digital platforms offer with the accuracy and depth that responsible journalism demands. Educating the public about distinguishing reliable sources from misinformation may become part of the council’s macro objectives.
Comrade (Dr.) Festus Alenkhe’s re-emergence is a testament to his exceptional service in his first term and the trust that the members have in his leadership.
He has brought honour and instilled a sense of self-esteem in journalists in Edo State Council, where members are guided and their actions regimented. For instance, his stance on journalists, having post-work relaxation or winding down to relax or socialise from 4 p.m. after completing their responsibilities for the day at the Press Centre, is laudable.
His vision, which focuses on respect for journalists, welfare, ethics, professional development, and public engagement, aligns with the comprehensive aim of the NUJ to uphold the values of responsible journalism. The Edo State Council, under his leadership, is well positioned to continue promoting the rights of journalists, safeguarding their well-being, and advancing the profession’s standards.
The swearing-in of the Edo NUJ executive members heralds a period of renewed commitment, as they embark on their mandate to steer the Council towards even greater achievements. Comrade (Dr.) Festus Alenkhe’s leadership is a beacon of hope, ensuring that journalists in Edo State remain steadfast in their role as the ‘watchdogs’ of society.
His focus on continuity, welfare, and ethics promises a brighter future for journalism in Edo, reinforcing the NUJ’s position as a pillar of democracy and an advocate for truth in Nigeria.
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Odaro, a columnist, lectures in the Department of Mass Communication, Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi, and can be reached via [email protected]_
