In accordance with the timetable released for the 2025 elections of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Enugu State Council holding on Friday, March 7, immediate past Vice Chairman of the Correspondents chapel ,Ignatius Okpara ,who is the Director -General of the “Right Path campaign team” of the incumbent Chairman and Chairmanship candidate, Sam Udekwe, and other candidates, formally presented the team’s candidates to the campaign group.
Speaking at the presentation of the candidates on Wednesday,March 4, at the Press Center, Enugu, the Campaign Director-General named Sam Udekwe of ESBS , Chairmanship candidate, Regis Anikworji of Business Day Newspapers Vice Chairmanship candidate, Dame Ifeoma Amuta of Radio Nigeria for Secretary, Chinyere Agbo of State Information for Treasurer, Uche Nnamele of NTA for Internal Auditor, and Adaku Mmadueke Agbala of Radio Nigeria for Financial Secretary .
Okpara ,who appealed to members to vote for the candidates, described them as credible, reliable, trustworthy, transparent and peace loving. He added that they had served the state council in different capacities and performed well and will move the state council to a higher level if voted for.
Speaking, the chairmanship candidate, Sam Udekwe said he wants to consolidate on the successes he recorded in his first tenure, hence, the desire to go for a second tenure. He unveiled his campaign promises, urging members to vote for him and other candidates in his team, assuring an improved NUJ .
Pix: Okpara (L) Udekwe (m) Okafor(R)
His full speech,:
MESSAGE OF UNSHAKEN SOLIDARITY
-Let’s Continue on the Right Path!
Gentlemen of the Press, esteemed colleagues, and members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Enugu State Council.
I wake you up this day in good faith, with immense gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility as I seek your mandate to serve as your Chairman for a second tenure. Over the past few years, we have journeyed together through challenges and triumphs, and it has been an honour to lead such a dedicated and passionate group of professionals.
When I first took office, in consonance with my 2022 campaign mantra of “the peace I have I will give you” I made a promise: a promise to uphold the values of integrity, professionalism, and unity in our beloved union. All these have come to pass. Today, Enugu State Council is rated as one of the most peaceful Councils in the country and we have all enjoyed it together, leaving nobody behind, including the crisis merchants who naturally became uncomfortable in the environment of peace.
In light of this, I want to reflect on what we have achieved together and share my vision for our future.
In my first term, we prioritized transparency and accountability. It’s worthy of note that in my administrative style to promote transparency I made sure that more officers in the management of finance began to receive our bank transaction alerts which is not readily available in the banking system but I had to apply for that.
We established clearer communication channels, enhanced contacts for training programmes, and fought tirelessly for the welfare of journalists in our state. Each initiative, every workshop, and advocacy effort was aimed at empowering you—our members—to thrive in your careers and to uphold the noble profession of journalism. It’s true everyone has not been involved because the opportunities were not enough to go round yet, but we shall continue to push forth. We’ve continued to follow the path of generality and inclusivity while eschewing the obnoxious philosophy of “the fewer the merrier”, to ensure that everyone is carried along.
Naturally, with the foundation of peace in place, we were able to establish fruitful collaboration with the government, earning us monumental achievements, including but not limited to the reconstruction of the Press Centre building that houses the hallowed Unity Hall which hitherto became the subject of every ugly discussion.
Pix: Members of the Right Path campaign team
Of course together, we have revitalized our union, fostering a spirit of collaboration that transcends individual differences. We stood firm during challenging times, advocating press freedom and the rights of journalists. In this regard, we’ve had cause to rescue our members who at one time or the other, were taken up in molestation and intimidation by some prominent members of the society who do not tolerate the factual reportage of their shortcomings. In fact, your unwavering support has empowered us to create a safer and more conducive environment for our work.
But our journey is far from over. The landscape of journalism is rapidly changing, with new challenges and opportunities on the horizon. As we step into this new chapter, I envision a union that not only adapts to these changes but leads the way in innovation and excellence.
If given the honour to continue serving as your Chairman, I pledge to focus on the following key areas:
1. Capacity Building: We will expand our training programmes to ensure that every member is equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the evolving media landscape effectively.
2. Advocacy for Journalist Welfare: I will work relentlessly to improve the welfare and working conditions of journalists, ensuring that our voices are heard in policy discussions that affect our profession.
3. Strengthening Unity: A united front is vital for our strength. I will initiate more collaborative projects and events that bring us together, fostering a greater sense of community among our members.
4. Embracing Technology: We will harness the power of technology to enhance our reach, improve our storytelling capabilities, and engage more effectively with our audience.
5. Youth Engagement: The future of our union lies in the hands of the next generation of journalists. I intend to create more mentorship programmes to inspire and guide young journalists, ensuring that they are prepared to face the demands of an ever-changing industry.
My fellow journalists, let us continue this journey together. Your trust and support are paramount, and I assure you that I will dedicate myself fully to the service of this union and its members.
I humbly ask for your vote so that we can build on our successes and confront the challenges ahead with courage, conviction, and unity. Together, we can make the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Enugu State Council, a beacon of excellence, professionalism, and solidarity.
Thank you for your time, your support, and your commitment to our profession. Together, let us continue to raise the bar for journalism in Enugu State!
Let’s continue on the right path!!
If it’s not broken no need to mend it!!!
God bless you, and God bless the Nigeria Union of Journalists.
Author: Maureen Ikpeama