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By Tracy Moses
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has restated the unwavering commitment of the 10th National Assembly to championing gender equity, safeguarding press freedom, and enhancing participatory democracy in Nigeria.
Represented by Hon. Patrick Umoh, who serves the Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara Federal Constituency, the Speaker gave the assurance on Monday at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Press Week and Award Ceremony held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.
Commending the media for its crucial role in nurturing democracy and raising civic awareness, Abbas described journalism as a vital force in the fight against misinformation and in the promotion of inclusive governance. “The theme for this year, ‘Journalism in a Changing World: Press Freedom, Media, Democracy and Society,’ couldn’t be more appropriate. Journalism transcends news delivery, it is a guardian of truth and a driver of democratic ideals,” he said.
He noted that under his leadership, the National Assembly has introduced reforms aimed at increasing transparency, such as the Open NASS project and the live broadcast of plenary sessions and public hearings. “These measures are designed to eliminate information gaps and build public trust. Democracy should always be inclusive, transparent, and accountable,” Abbas stated.
Touching on gender inclusivity, the Speaker referenced ongoing efforts to advance the Reserved Special Seats Bill for Women, adding that a special stakeholder roundtable on the issue would take place from Wednesday to Thursday. He commended female legislators for advocating gender justice, raising motions on sexual harassment, and promoting equal pay and protection against gender-based violence.
Abbas also charged the media to intensify efforts in verifying information and upholding ethical practices, particularly in the digital era. “No nation thrives on fake news or disinformation. Together, we must create a media environment rooted in integrity, truth, and accountability,” he said, dedicating his award to the 10th House of Representatives for their efforts in building a fair and equitable society.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, applauded the NUJ FCT Council for hosting the Press Week, describing it as a platform to reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to democracy and transparency. He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritising press freedom under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Dangiwa underscored the strategic importance of the media in promoting public understanding of government initiatives, including the Renewed Hope Housing Programme and the National Urban Renewal Initiative. “It’s not enough for people to see what we do, they must also understand the reasoning behind our actions. The media plays a pivotal role in telling that story,” he said.
He called for enhanced legal protections for journalists and advocated the establishment of sustainable financial support systems for independent media. According to him, a vibrant democracy requires journalists who feel safe and empowered.
Reaffirming the Ministry’s backing of the proposed Journalists’ Village in Abuja, the Minister said, “As I assured during our courtesy visit, we will collaborate with cooperative housing developers to allocate land once the council provides a layout.”
Meanwhile, Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, former Nasarawa State Governor and current Chairman of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), received the NUJ’s Media Personality of the Year Award. In his keynote remarks, Al-Makura described the press as the nation’s conscience and a pillar of accountability.
He proposed several measures to revitalise the media space, including the establishment of a Journalist Safety and Insurance Scheme, a Media Sustainability Fund to aid digital transformation and training, and the creation of a National Fact-Checking Alliance to tackle fake news.
Al-Makura also recommended media literacy campaigns in schools and communities to equip citizens, especially the youth, with the skills to critically evaluate news content. “Democracy is meaningful only when it protects life, ensures rights, and fosters collective prosperity. These cannot be achieved without a free and responsible press,” he asserted.
Drawing on his background as a former media practitioner, he reiterated the media’s critical role in preserving public trust and political stability. He encouraged both public and private stakeholders to provide long-term support to the sector.
Another honouree at the ceremony, Chief Ntufam Hilliard Eta, Chairman of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), was appointed as Patron of the NUJ FCT Council. In his acceptance speech, Eta pledged continuous support for the Council’s efforts and emphasized the press’s developmental value.
He praised journalists for fostering unity and national cohesion, calling on government institutions to collaborate more with the media to communicate reforms and shape inclusive narratives. Eta assured that his role as Patron would be proactive and geared toward enhancing media welfare and freedom. “Let’s build a Nigeria where journalists are safe, respected, and appreciated,” he said.
Also in attendance was Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ikioye Orutugu, who represented the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. He credited his success in Anambra to effective training, resilience, and strong ties with local communities.
Expressing optimism for continued peace in the Southeast, Orutugu said, “To my people from the Southeast, joy is not just coming, joy is already here.” He encouraged both the media and the public to recognize progress within the police force, saying, “We welcome criticism, but also celebrate our gains. Sing the part of the song where we are making strides.”
NUJ FCT Council Chairperson, Comrade Grace Ike, in her welcome address, emphasized that the Press Week was not just a celebration but an opportunity to reflect on the state of the media industry. She called on journalists to remain steadfast in their duty to truth and national development.
Ike appreciated the award recipients and dignitaries for gracing the occasion and reaffirmed the Council’s mission to uphold press freedom and professional standards. “The media must take its place as a builder of the nation through credible and ethical journalism,” she said.
Among other distinguished guests were Professor Mohammed Mainoma Akaro, former Vice Chancellor of Nasarawa State University; Mr. Yan Jin Xi, Director of the Chinese Cultural Centre; and Mr. Sunday Dare, Senior Special Assistant to the President.