The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, held its January Congress on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at the Press Centre, Pen Crescent, Alagbaka-Akure.
The well-attended meeting, presided over by the State Chairman, Leke Adegbite, addressed key issues affecting journalists, governance, and public welfare in the state.
The Congress acknowledged the efforts of the NUJ State Executive Council in safeguarding the interests of journalists and urged them to continue their advocacy.
A major point of discussion was the non-inclusion of Owena Press workers, publishers of The Hope newspaper, in the new ₦73,000 minimum wage approved by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
The union appealed to the governor to ensure that these workers benefit from the wage increase to mitigate the harsh economic realities.
Similarly, concerns were raised about federal media workers in Ondo State, including those in NTA, FRCN, and NAN, urging the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to oversee the proper implementation of the new wage structure at the federal level.
The NUJ called on the Accountant General of the Federation to establish a clear payment template to prevent discrepancies in salary distribution.
In the media sector, the Congress applauded the transformation efforts at OSRC/Orange FM under its new CEO, Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson, and encouraged him to sustain the progress.
Additionally, the union praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for the peaceful conduct of the recently held local government elections and urged the government to focus on infrastructure development, especially at the grassroots level.
The Congress decried the increasing occupation of roadways by traders and tricycle operators in Akure, calling on the state government to provide alternative parking spaces and designated market areas for displaced vendors.
Similarly, the union expressed concern over the prolonged recruitment process for teachers in public schools, urging the government to expedite the process to prevent further decline in the education sector.
On security, the NUJ commended the new Commissioner of Police, Olutokunbo Afolabi, for launching the ‘Safe Community’ initiative, which aims to resolve communal disputes and foster peaceful coexistence among residents.
The Congress also extended gratitude to the immediate past Commissioner for Information, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu, for his support in hosting the meeting, and appreciated all those who contributed to the successful 2024 Ondo NUJ Press Week celebrations.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to advocating for the welfare of journalists and the overall development of Ondo State.
