The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has announced plans to push for the passage of a Media Enhancement Bill aimed at improving welfare packages and working conditions for journalists nationwide.
NUJ President, Alhassan Yahaya, made the disclosure on Wednesday during a media interactive forum in Kano, organised by the NUJ Kano State Council in collaboration with the State Ministry for Information and Internal Affairs. The high-level dialogue was designed to strengthen ethical standards and reshape public media narratives in the state.
Yahaya revealed that the proposed legislation, already attracting sponsorship support from members of the House of Representatives, seeks to address poor remuneration and inadequate protections in the profession.
“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.
The NUJ president also called for the introduction of health insurance for journalists, noting that fewer than one per cent currently have coverage. He stressed that under the state’s health insurance scheme, journalists could access comprehensive healthcare from primary to tertiary levels for a premium of ₦15,000, reducing out-of-pocket expenses and promoting universal health coverage.
Kano Government Commits to Media Reforms
Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi-Waiya, said the state had undertaken sweeping reforms to boost media capacity, enhance transparency, and foster stronger communication between government and citizens.
“These efforts, alongside stakeholder engagement and domestication of the Freedom of Information Act, have improved public information management and deepened civic participation,” he said.
The commissioner outlined achievements, including the revival of in-house publications, rehabilitation of the ministry’s library, and strengthened relations with media executives, political commentators, and civil society groups.
Call for Professionalism and Safeguards
NUJ Kano Chairman, Suleman Dederi, emphasised the need to engage veteran journalists to improve professionalism in the state’s media landscape.
Former NUJ National President, Sani Zoro, warned against misinformation and the misuse of artificial intelligence, citing past incidents of fabricated stories going viral. He urged the union to adopt global best practices, strengthen the International Institute of Journalism, and host regular forums to address professional and societal challenges.
Stakeholder Recommendations
Stakeholders at the forum commended the Kano State Government for being one of the most media-friendly in the country, citing investments in journalism infrastructure, human capital development, and clearance of pension arrears for retired journalists.
They recommended that such dialogues be held quarterly, that veteran journalists mentor younger colleagues via online platforms, and that continuous capacity-building programmes be prioritised to raise professional standards.
The event brought together veteran journalists, academics, and media practitioners to share experiences and review developments affecting the profession in Kano State and across Nigeria.
