By Emamuzo Iboma
Top Nigerian leaders, media professionals, and labour figures are set to gather in Abuja on Saturday, 21 June 2025, to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) at a national event themed “Redefining Media Practice in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.”
In a press statement signed by Dr. Abimbola Oyetunde, Deputy National President of the NUJ and Chairman of the Organising Committee, the Union stated that the event would honour the NUJ’s legacy and address the present-day realities confronting the media industry.
“This is a celebration of the NUJ’s 70 years of unwavering commitment to protecting media freedom, advancing professionalism, and defending democracy,” Dr. Oyetunde said. “But it is also a time to reflect deeply on the disruptive changes in media practice, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence and digital manipulation.”
Among the dignitaries expected to attend are President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, who will serve as keynote speaker.
Also expected are Governors Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Hope Uzodinma (Imo), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Muhammed Inuwa (Gombe), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Abba Kabir Yusuf (Kano), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), and Babagana Zulum (Borno), as well as former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello.
Other notable guests include the Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi; NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero; and TUC President, Comrade Festus Osifo.
The event will also bring together captains of industry, past and current national NUJ officers, Central Working Committee members, NEC members, and leaders of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), who will be specially honoured for their contributions.
A key highlight will be the launch of a commemorative book titled “70 Years of the NUJ: From Struggle to Strength”, authored by former NUJ National Secretary Mr. Shuabu Lehman, a veteran journalist with over three decades of service to the Union.
The 70th anniversary celebration underscores the NUJ’s critical role in defending press freedom, promoting ethical journalism, and adapting to the evolving challenges of the digital era. The event promises to be a defining moment for stakeholders shaping the future of journalism in Nigeria.
