In a call for strengthened union commitment, the Chairman of the Oyo State Council of the Nigeria of the Union of Journalists, Comrade Demola Babaloa, has urged newly-inaugurated executives of the NUJ Information Chapel, NUJIC, to put members’ welfare at the forefront of their agenda.
The new executive members are Fasasi Ismail – Chairman; Afolakemi Bamgbose – Vice Chairman; Adeniji Olamide – Secretary; Temilola Akarah – Assistant Secretary.
Others are, Aminat Busari Adeleke – Treasurer; and Bukola Ibikunle – Financial Secretary.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony, held at the Ministry of Information and Orientation, Film Theatre, Secretariat, Agodi Ibadan, Alhaji Babalola emphasized the critical role the union plays in supporting journalists, especially in times of economic challenges and shifting media landscapes.
The NUJ Chairman highlighted that members’ welfare directly impacts productivity and professional integrity within journalism.
He said, “Our journalists need to know their union is here for them, not only in words but in action. The welfare of our members is non-negotiable.”
Babalola encouraged the NUJIC executives to foster unity and transparency and implement policies that benefit all members while upholding journalistic ethics.
He pledged the state council’s continued support, encouraging the NUJIC executives to explore ways to make resources accessible for their members, provide mental health support, and create professional development opportunities.
In his acceptance speech, the NUJIC Chairman, Comrade Fasasi disclosed that the new exco remains committed to working diligently to promote the interests of the union and upholding the highest standards of journalism.
Fasasi emphasized that “during the first term, we achieved significant milestones, and I assure you that we will build on this strong foundation to reach even greater heights.
“My vision for our Chapel remains clear: to foster a vibrant community that excels in journalism profession and advocate for the rights and welfare of our members.
“To all members, in this second term, I reiterate my commitment to addressing your concerns, providing platforms for professional development, and championing the causes that matter most to us as a Chapel.”
In his welcome address the chairman, NUJIC Electoral Committee, Comrade Damola Adegoke, who was represented by Comrade Opeyemi Ogunuyi stated that the committee adopted digital means of communication and operations including sales and registration of nomination forms.
He said, “It is worthy of note that the efforts and support received from the parent body, the NUJ, Oyo State Council contributed immensely to the success of the assignment given to us, while we also thank our great leader, former Oyo State NUJ Secretary, Comrade Rotimi Babalola.
“As I congratulate the incoming executives, we implore you to come up with innovations capable of generating revenue for this union apart from the regular monthly deductions from salaries and continually strive to ensure NUJIC competes favourably among other chapels in terms of progress and development.”
In his goodwill message, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Orientation, Dr Bode Ladipo, said one thing that is permanent is change and that is what we are seeing today.
Dr. Ladipo urged the new executives to set a foundation for a better building for NUJ within the Ministry of Information and Orientation.
In their separate goodwill messages, former Secretary to Oyo NUJ, Comrade Rotimi Babalola, Former NAWOJ Chairperson Comrade Adekitan Adeagbo and Secretary of NAWOJ B Zone, Comrade Adeola Adewole, advised the new executives to ensure their commitment to the welfare of members and also encouraged the newly-sworn-in executives to always rise to the challenge of good leadership.
