By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed deep concern over the worsening state of insecurity across the country, warning that rising cases of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in states such as Benue, Zamfara, and Plateau threaten national unity and public safety.
The Union made this known in a communiqué issued at the end of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on 12th August 2025 at Tahir Guest Palace Hotel, Kano, under the chairmanship of its National President, Comrade Alhasan Yahya.
According to the NEC, the worsening security situation demands urgent and coordinated government action. The Union also noted that the impact of violence is being felt in rural and urban communities alike, with devastating consequences for economic activities and social cohesion.
The communiqué stated: “The rising insecurity in several states is unacceptable and must be urgently addressed. Government must act decisively to halt the cycle of violence, restore peace, and reassure Nigerians of their safety. This is not just about combating crime, but about protecting the nation from sliding into deeper lawlessness.”
“From banditry to kidnapping and terrorism, the insecurity is disrupting lives and pushing communities into fear and despair,” the NEC warned. “Citizens are losing faith in the capacity of the state to protect them, and this is a dangerous path that must be reversed.”
Beyond security concerns, the NEC lamented the deplorable condition of federal and state roads nationwide, naming Delta, Bauchi, Gombe to Taraba, Benue, Rivers, Enugu, and Kogi States among the worst affected.
They also condemned the unprofessional conduct of some Chief Press Secretaries (CPS) to state governors, accusing them of hostility towards journalists and obstructing NUJ council leaders from accessing their governors.
The communiqué added: “Many of these roads have become death traps, disrupting economic activities and causing needless loss of lives. We call on both Federal and State Governments to take immediate action to rehabilitate critical road networks and ensure the timely and quality completion of all ongoing projects.”
“CPS are meant to serve as bridges between the media and government, not as barriers,” the Union stressed. “Governors must ensure that their CPS understand their role in facilitating constructive engagement with journalists, who are partners in the progress of every state.”
The NEC commended Kano State Governor, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, for his progressive leadership, inclusive governance, and support for press freedom, describing his open-door policy as a model for others.
It also praised Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, for facilitating the payment of entitlements to former staff of the defunct New Nigeria Newspapers, and lauded Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for donating brand-new SUVs to NUJ State Working Committee members.
On welfare, the NEC urged Federal and State Governments to ensure the full implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage across media organisations and to provide welfare packages for journalists. It also cautioned states against censoring media houses and called for proactive flood prevention measures, including early warning systems and drainage clearance.
Reaffirming its stance, the Union said: “The NUJ remains committed to defending democratic ideals, promoting press freedom, and upholding the integrity of the journalism profession. We call on all tiers of government to see the media as partners in the task of nation-building, transparency, and accountability.”
