President Bola Tinubu has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Alhassan Yahaya on his election as the President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) at the 8th Triennial National Delegates Conference in Owerri, Imo State on November 27, 2024.
In a statement by presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the President also congratulated other newly elected members of the NUJ executive.
He praised the Union for organising a rancour-free election at the conference.
Tinubu said Yahaya’s overwhelming victory was a testament to the NUJ members’ confidence in his leadership qualities.
He expressed optimism that the new NUJ president’s experience, particularly as the former deputy president of the Union, will be instrumental as he leads the Fourth Estate of the Realm.
Tinubu further emphasised the importance of the press in taking on its constitutional roles with a renewed patriotic passion, aligned with the vision and efforts of the founding fathers of journalism in Nigeria.
Furthermore, the President encouraged Yahaya and the new NUJ leadership to address malpractices within the industry.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to ensuring a free and independent media essential to deepening democracy and promoting national development.
President Tinubu expects Yahaya’s tenure to reflect a strengthened commitment towards upholding journalism ethics while fostering a collaborative relationship with the government to build a just and equitable society.
He wished Yahaya and his team a successful and impactful term in office.