NUJ Urges Media Houses To Prioritise Salary Payment And Insurance for Journalists.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has called on media houses to prioritise the payment of salaries and provide insurance coverage for their staff. The appeal was made in a communiqué issued at the end of the union’s monthly congress, held on Friday at the NUJ Secretariat in Iyaganku, Ibadan.
The communiqué, prepared by Comrades Akeem Abas (Chairman), Olamide Adeniji (Secretary), and Dayo Adu (Member), highlighted the rapid increase in the number of radio stations in Oyo State, particularly in Ibadan. While acknowledging the economic impact of these new media establishments, the union stressed the need for media owners to ensure the financial welfare and security of their employees.
“The congress observed a significant increase in the number of radio stations in Oyo State, particularly in Ibadan. While acknowledging this growth and the multimillion-naira investments of these media owners in job creation, the union advised media owners to prioritise the payment of salaries and insurance coverage for journalists and other staff,” the communiqué stated.
The union also expressed concern over the rising trend of media establishments being set up primarily for political purposes, often employing unqualified personnel at the expense of trained professionals. It urged media owners to uphold professionalism and ethical standards in journalism.
In addition, the congress commended both the federal and state governments for their ongoing efforts to improve road infrastructure. However, it called on the Federal Ministry of Works, the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), and the Oyo State Road Transport Management Authority (OYRTMA) to intensify efforts in ensuring road safety.
The NUJ also urged the Oyo State Government to strengthen the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) by providing it with adequate resources to enhance its ability to respond swiftly to emergencies.
The union reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for journalists’ welfare and upholding professional standards within the media industry.
