By Karen James
The Anambra State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) marked its 2024 Patrons and Veterans Day on Thursday at the Godwin Ezemo International Press Center in Awka. The event coincided with the nationwide hunger protest that commenced on August 1. Despite the timing, the program successfully celebrated veterans in the field of journalism and recognized individuals who have made significant contributions to media support in Nigeria.
Comrade Ukpa Ewa Eke, the chairperson of the planning committee, acknowledged the fortuitous overlap of the two national events. She explained that the date for the program was fixed before the announcement of the hunger protest. In her address, Eke highlighted the focus of the event, which was to explore the vital role of leadership accountability in economic growth and the media’s role as a cornerstone in this process.
She expressed gratitude to the attendees for their support and generosity, acknowledging their contributions towards the success of the conference. Eke appealed for continued support to fulfill their remaining financial obligations, emphasizing the importance of collective mission and the media’s role in advocating for truth, fairness, and a more informed society.
The keynote speaker, Professor Clifford Ezekwe Nwanna from Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, urged the media and the masses to play their respective roles in three revolutions: ethical, educational, and judicial. He emphasized the importance of adhering to professional ethics and recommended regular training for media workers organized by media owners. Professor Nwanna emphasized the media’s role as the nation’s watchdog, highlighting the need for a sound economic recovery roadmap and prudent management of fiscal and monetary policies.
Regarding the Nigerian government’s attitude towards the media, Professor Nwanna acknowledged the efforts of journalists in fighting for truth and holding those in power accountable. He stressed the importance of unbiased reporting and the media’s access to data, which has the potential to generate positive change and influence policymaking.
In her remarks, Iyom Obikwelu, a British citizen and American-trained nurse, spoke about the significance of love and the impact it can have on positively transforming lives. She advocated for sharing and giving, emphasizing the need to show love to create a better world for all.
As part of the event, the Solution-Feed the Needy Foundation, founded by Iyom Obikwelu, empowered women, people living with disabilities, and veteran journalists, showcasing the importance of giving back and making a difference in the lives of others.
The celebration of Patrons and Veterans Day provided an opportunity for the Anambra State NUJ to acknowledge and honor the contributions of the media industry’s veterans while also addressing critical issues related to leadership accountability and the role of journalism in economic growth. Despite the concurrent nationwide hunger protest, the event demonstrated the resilience and commitment of the union to their mission of promoting truth, fairness, and social progress through responsible journalism.
