From Desmond Mgboh, Kano
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has announced its intention to seek an enhancement bill for media practitioners in Nigeria
The Media Enhancement Bill, according to the President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Alhassan Yahaya, is aimed at improving the welfare and working conditions of journalists in Nigeria
He spoke at a Veteran Journalists’ Forum in Kano, a concept organised by the NUJ in collaboration with the Kano State Ministry for Information and Internal Affairs.
The engagement formed part of the activities for the two-day National Executive Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Kano.
Yahaya noted that the proposed bill would address the age-long issue of poor remuneration in the profession and provide a legal framework for a better welfare package for journalists
He also sought fot the establishment of a health insurance scheme for journalists, revealing that less than one per cent of practitioners are covered by a health insurance policy.
In his remarks, Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi-Waiya, pointed out that the state had implemented wide-ranging reforms to strengthen media capacity, enhance transparency, and improve communication between government and citizens.
He said that he has revived the ministry’s publications, rehabilitation of the ministry’s library, and stronger relations with media executives, political commentators, and civil society groups.
Also speaking, a former NUJ National President, Malam Sani Zoro, cautioned against misinformation and misuse of artificial intelligence, urging the union to adopt global best practices.
The forum brought together veteran journalists and media practitioners to address ethical issues and strengthen public trust in the profession.
