NUJ Prioritizes Pay And Healthcare In Proposed Media Reform Bill

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) is set to push for the passage of a Media Enhancement Bill aimed at improving welfare packages and working conditions for journalists nationwide.

According to iReporter Online, NUJ President Comrade Alhassan Yahaya disclosed this at a veteran journalists’ forum in Kano, organized by the NUJ Kano State Council and the State Ministry for Information and Internal Affairs.

Yahaya explained that the proposed bill, already attracting sponsorship from members of the House of Representatives, seeks to address poor remuneration in the profession and establish a legal framework for better welfare.

“We blow other people’s trumpets but not ours. It is time we stood firm and worked collectively to ensure the bill is passed,” he said.

He also called for the introduction of health insurance for journalists, noting that less than one per cent currently have coverage.

According to iReporter Online, with an annual premium of N15,000 under the state health insurance scheme, journalists could access healthcare at all levels, reducing out-of-pocket expenses and promoting universal health coverage.

In his remarks, the Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi-Waiya, highlighted reforms aimed at strengthening media capacity, enhancing transparency, and improving communication between government and citizens.

He noted the revival of in-house publications, rehabilitation of the ministry’s library, and stronger relations with media executives, political commentators, and civil society groups.

Also speaking, former NUJ National President Malam Sani Zoro cautioned against misinformation and misuse of artificial intelligence, urging the union to adopt global best practices and invest in professional training.

Stakeholders at the dialogue commended Kano State for being widely regarded as Nigeria’s most media-friendly state, citing investments in journalism infrastructure, human capital development, and the clearance of pension arrears for retired journalists.

They recommended quarterly dialogues, mentorship programmes by veteran journalists, and continuous capacity-building to boost professionalism.

According to iReporter Online, the interactive session brought together veteran journalists, academics, and media practitioners to address ethical standards and strengthen public trust in the media.

In a separate initiative, the General Manager of the Yobe State Government’s Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA), Abubakar Liman Babanyawo, paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Fika regarding the implementation of Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) in Potiskum Local Government Area.

RUWASA, with support from UNICEF, is engaging communities to promote hygiene and sanitation practices.

The Emir pledged to sustain sensitization efforts and support the initiative, which is expected to improve sanitation and hygiene practices across Potiskum LGA.

”IREPORTER REPORTS”