President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas is among the high-profile dignitaries expected to grace the 70th anniversary celebration of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), scheduled for Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.
Themed “Redefining Media Practice in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” the landmark event will reflect on the Union’s legacy of defending press freedom while addressing the challenges posed by emerging technologies and digital misinformation.
In a press statement signed by Dr. Abimbola Oyetunde, Deputy National President and Chairman of the Organising Committee, the NUJ described the anniversary as both a celebration of its journey and a call to action for the future of journalism in Nigeria.
“This is a celebration of the NUJ’s 70 years of unwavering commitment to protecting media freedom, advancing professionalism, and defending democracy,” said Dr. Oyetunde.
“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.”
Also expected at the high-level gathering are several state governors, including:
* Governor Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom)
* Governor Hope Uzodinma (Imo)
* Governor Douye Diri (Bayelsa)
* Governor Mohammed Inuwa (Gombe)
* Governor Bala Mohammed (Bauchi)
* Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf (Kano)
* Governor Seyi Makinde (Oyo)
* Governor Babagana Zulum (Borno)
* Former Governor Yahaya Bello (Kogi)
The Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, as well as the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, and the President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Festus Osifo, are also billed to attend.
Captains of industry, past NUJ national leaders, members of the Central Working Committee and National Executive Council, as well as leaders of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), will be in attendance. NAWOJ leaders will be specially recognized for their contributions to the growth of the Union.
A major highlight of the event will be the unveiling of a commemorative book titled “70 Years of the NUJ: From Struggle to Strength,” authored by Mr. Shuabu Lehman, a veteran journalist and former NUJ National Secretary who has dedicated over 30 years to the Union.
The NUJ @70 celebration stands as a testament to the Union’s pivotal role in championing democracy, press freedom, and professional journalism amidst Nigeria’s dynamic media and political landscape.
