By Ogbeni Olawale Dawodu-
Comrade Alhassan Yahaya has been elected as the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), following a highly competitive election at the union’s 8th Triennial Delegates Conference in Owerri, Imo State.
Yahaya, who previously served as the Deputy National President, secured 436 votes to defeat Comrade Bamidele Atunbi, the immediate past National Treasurer, who received 97 votes, and Comrade Garba Mohammed, who garnered 39 votes.
In his victory speech, Yahaya, a native of Gombe State, expressed gratitude to the delegates and promised to lead the union with integrity and commitment. *”This victory is not mine alone but belongs to every journalist in Nigeria. Together, we will work towards a stronger, more unified NUJ,”* he said.
The election, attended by approximately 600 delegates from across the country, also saw a historic milestone as Comrade Abimbola Oyetunde was elected unopposed as the Deputy National President, becoming the first female to hold the position. Oyetunde, the General Manager of Radio Nigeria Bronze FM in Edo State, described her election as a significant step forward for gender representation in the union. *”This is a moment of pride and responsibility. I am committed to ensuring inclusivity and progress in the NUJ,”* she said.
Other key positions were filled unopposed, including Comrade Victor Ndukwe as National Treasurer and Comrade Ronke Samo, who was re-elected as Vice President of the B-Zone (Southwest).
The election process, conducted under tight security, was chaired by Comrade Mike Ikeogwu. Representing the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero commended the orderly conduct of the event. *”This election is a testament to the maturity and unity within the NUJ. It reflects the democratic spirit we must uphold,”* Ajaero noted.
The new leadership team is expected to focus on strengthening the union’s advocacy for journalists’ welfare and press freedom across Nigeria.
