Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, has advised the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to work towards prioritising the welfare of members.
Addressing members of the NUJ, Anambra State Credentials Committee, who visited him at his office in Awka, Mefor decried the plight of journalists in Nigeria, pointing out that they are not only underappreciated but are sometimes maligned by those in other professions, particularly politicians who obstruct their jobs and put them in harm’s way.
“Every news media platform should work out some life assurance for journalists. I would want the NUJ to think in terms of basic welfare packages for members, particularly their family members when they go prematurely in the line of duty.
“As for your program, you need to seek more support outside because you have been working for society. The job is a thankless job. Journalists are underappreciated and maligned by others who obstruct their jobs and put them in harm’s way. The job is very risky. Society should appreciate your work by supporting your programs. I noticed it’s only the press that is called out and given the responsibility to hold the government accountable in the Nigerian Constitution. This is a tool media practitioners have to leverage to make the profession much more potent and relevant,” he said.
The commissioner further assured that he will study their requests regarding the forthcoming NUJ Anambra Election and make a case to the appropriate quarters as the ministry can’t do much.
Earlier, the chairman of the Credentials Committee, Dr. Stanley Ikem Onunkwo, informed the Commissioner of the NUJ Anambra Election coming up in January 2025 and asked for the government’s assistance to ensure a successful election.
In a vote of thanks, a member of the group, Comrade Ebele Ézè, lauded Dr. Mefor’s numerous contributions in the field of journalism and urged him to assist them in reaching out to people.
Other members of the committee present during the visit were Mr. Chris Obileri of Radio Nigeria Purity FM and the Chairperson of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Anambra State Chapter, Comrade Tochukwu Ifejika.
By Rose Oranye
