NUJ to grace Ijaw Publishers’ Inauguration Feb 29

By Miracle Esegha

In bid to show solidarity and support for the burgeoning Ijaw Publishers’ Forum (IPF), the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) has indicated interest to honour the forthcoming inauguration ceremony of the group.

This assurance was made when the IPF delegation paid courtesy visit to the NUJ Warri Secretariat earlier Friday.

The delegation led by its President, Comrade Ozobo Austin included Charles Oyinbi Onduku, vice President and Peretengboro Klintin Bibaikefie, member of the inauguration committee and others. The President-elect expressed gratitude for the warm reception at the NUJ Warri Secretariat and extended their invitation to the NUJ to attend their forthcoming inaugural ceremony.

Mr A. Okies, the Warri Chapter Chairman of NUJ conveyed his joy over the courtesy call by the IPF delegation. He affirmed the NUJ’s commitment to providing all necessary support to the nascent IPF and promised to attend the event alongside the leadership and members of the NUJ.

During the meeting, Mr. Okies took the opportunity to emphasise the importance of maintaining professional standards in journalism. He advised against quackery, highlighting that while anyone with a gift or knowledge can venture into journalism, there is a vital need for individuals to undergo certification courses.

He listed the legal requirement for practitioners to meet the minimum standards as a Bachelor’s degree or Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism or Mass Communication.

While the IPF team acknowledged the NUJ’s chairman Okies for his warmed reception, they pledged to identify with the NUJ.

The collaborative spirit between these influential bodies set a positive tone for the IPF’s inauguration, fostering unity and professional growth within the journalistic community.

However, the ceremony would be a significant milestone in the promotion of ethical journalism and the advancement of media standards in the Niger Delta region.