BY LARABA JAURO, OCTOBER 2, 2025 | 8:44AM

The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Borno State Council, has successfully concluded its 2025 Triennial Delegates Conference in Maiduguri, reaffirming its dedication to defending press freedom, upholding ethical journalism, and strengthening democracy in Nigeria.

The conference, themed “Beyond the Threat to Journalism: Strengthening Journalists’ Capacity in Promoting Democracy in Nigeria,” brought together veteran journalists, government officials, and key stakeholders in the communication industry at the International Conference Center, Musa Usman Secretariat, Maiduguri.

Representing Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Mal. Dauda Illiya commended the NUJ for its vital role in promoting development communication and countering misinformation.

'The union is a strategic partner in governance,' he said, lauding its commitment to building media capacity.

NUJ National President’s representative, North East Zonal Vice President Zare Baba, praised the Borno State Council for its transparent and peaceful leadership transition, calling it a “model of unity” for other state chapters.

He also commended Gov. Zulum for fostering an enabling environment for media practitioners.

While in her remarks, Aisha Kwaya Bura, President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), emphasized the need for continuous training and solidarity within the profession.

'Female practitioners should leverage NAWOJ platforms to amplify their voices in democratic processes and nation-building,' she urged.

In his remarks, Chairman of NUJ Borno Council, Abdulkareem Haruna, announced plans to produce a documentary chronicling the Union's history in Borno State and introduced new initiatives to promote journalistic excellence.

The conference observed a minute of silence for fallen journalists and proposed an annual award for outstanding newscasters.

As part of the event, Gov. Zulum donated N2.5 million to the League of Veteran Journalists, a group of retired journalists who served in Borno State for decades.

He also donated N1.5 million to current practicing journalists in the state to support their work.

Borno State Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Hauwa Abubakar, also donated N500,000 and three branded banners to support the Union.

The conference concluded with a renewed pledge by journalists to uphold professionalism, safeguard press freedom, and advocate for democracy, accountability, and truth in Nigeria.