By Amara Ehia, Abakaliki
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ebonyi State Council, Thursday commended the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, and Governor Francis Nwifuru for their sustained support to journalists and media practice in the state.
The union gave the commendation during the presentation of a brand-new 18-seater bus donated to the Correspondents’ Chapel of the NUJ by Senator Umahi at the Dr. Sam Egwu Press Centre, Abakaliki.
Speaking at the event, the state NUJ Chairman, Comrade Samson Nwafor, said the donation reflected the minister’s continued commitment to the welfare of journalists and the growth of the media profession in Ebonyi state.
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He recalled that Umahi had earlier donated a bus to the Correspondents’ Chapel during his administration as governor, noting that the latest gesture further demonstrated his appreciation of the role of the media in society.
Nwafor stated that the new bus would improve the operational capacity and mobility of journalists, especially members of the Correspondents’ Chapel, in carrying out their professional duties across the state and the South-east region.
The NUJ chairman also applauded Governor Francis Nwifuru for maintaining a cordial relationship with journalists and supporting the union since assuming office.
According to him, Governor Nwifuru had earlier donated a Toyota Hiace bus to the NUJ, a gesture he said contributed immensely to effective media operations in the state.
He said the support enjoyed by journalists under successive administrations had created a peaceful and conducive atmosphere for journalism practice in Ebonyi.
Nwafor assured both leaders that journalists in the state would continue to uphold professionalism, fairness and objectivity in the discharge of their duties.
He further urged journalists to avoid sensational reportage capable of creating tension in society, stressing that the media has a responsibility to promote peace, unity and development.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Uchenna Inya, described the relationship between the government and journalists in Ebonyi as encouraging and beneficial to media practice in the state.
He commended Umahi and Nwifuru for what he described as their genuine concern for the welfare of journalists.
The event was attended by journalists from different chapels of the NUJ, media stakeholders and other dignitaries.
