From Godwin Agia, in Jalingo
The Taraba State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has commenced activities marking its 2025 Press Week.
The annual event of journalists in the state is being reactivated after it held the last time ten years ago.
Friday, which marked the first day of the plethora of events carefully lined up for the week was for Juma’at prayers.
Journalists of Muslims faith accompanied by their Christian colleagues, gathered at the TY Danjuma Mosque to give thanks to Allah and pray for the success of the event.
On Sunday, a special thanksgiving service was held at the Supreme King’s Church Jalingo, where prayers were said for journalists to enable them succeed in playing their crucial roles in the society.
Addressing newsmen on Monday at a world press conference, the Central Planning Committee, led by its chairman, Alh Adamu Aso, disclosed that the event was aimed at bringing together journalists, government officials, and other stakeholders to celebrate the profession and recognize the outstanding contributions of journalists in nation-building.
He said “the occasion will offer opportunity for journalists to reflect on their role in shaping opinions and promoting peaceful co-existence and development in the country”.
Adamu Aso noted that activities lined up for the week-long celebration include a novelty football match between National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and their male counterparts.
He said the event would also witness presentation of awards to eminent persons.
The CPC chairman revealed that Governor Agbu Kefas will receive the Security Man of the Year Award, while David Sabo Kente will bag the Philanthropist of the Year Award.
He said; “Gen. Faransa (Rtd) will bag revenue man of the year award and other journalists will also be recognized for their excellence in journalism.
“This recognition is a testament to the NUJ’s commitment to promoting journalism excellence and recognizing individuals who have made significant impact in their respective fields.
“NUJ has been at the forefront of promoting journalism excellence and protecting the rights of journalists in the state. The Press Week celebration is an opportunity for the union to engage with stakeholders and promote the welfare of journalists.
“We are proud to recognize these individuals for their outstanding work, and we hope that their examples will inspire others to strive for excellence.”
Earlier, Chairman of NUJ Taraba State Council, Matthew Jen, appreciated the power of unity and thanked the planning committee for its hard work.
He noted that the Press Week celebration would be a fitting tribute to the NUJ’s 70th anniversary celebration.
“With the awards and other activities, the event will be a celebration of journalism excellence and a recognition of the important role that journalists play in the society”, he added.
