By Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ebonyi State Council, has announced plans to confer its highest honour on the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, Chief Francis Nwifuru, in recognition of his administration’s significant strides in human capital development and social welfare.
The award will be presented during the grand finale of the 2025 Press Week, scheduled for Thursday, October 23, at Remeritona Hotel and Suites, Abakaliki, starting at 9:00 a.m.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday at the Dr. Sam Egwu Press Centre, Comrade Nwafor Samson, the NUJ State Chairman, disclosed that Governor Nwifuru will be the Special Guest of Honour and will receive the NUJ Award of Excellence in Human Capital Development and Social Welfare.
Comrade Nwafor noted that while the Governor is known for his modesty and reluctance to accept accolades, the union insisted on presenting the award as a collective expression of appreciation from the media community.
“We believe in celebrating leadership that champions people-oriented policies. Doing so sets a benchmark for others and reinforces the media’s vital role in national development,” he stated. Focus on Journalists’ Welfare and Democracy.
The chairman reaffirmed the union’s unwavering commitment to press freedom, democracy, and the overall welfare of media practitioners.
This year’s theme, “Welfare of Journalists: Necessity for a Vibrant Democracy,” underscores the union’s focus on safeguarding the well-being of journalists as a core pillar of democratic governance.
“Our profession remains the watchdog of democracy,” Comrade Nwafor asserted. “Without adequate protection and welfare for journalists, we risk weakening the very fabric of our democratic society. Journalism cannot flourish in an environment where practitioners are vulnerable, intimidated, or neglected.”
The Press Week will also feature a sub-theme: “Fact-Checking in the Era of Artificial Intelligence and Social Media,” highlighting the growing complexities in information dissemination and the pivotal role of credible journalism in the digital age.
The grand finale will feature keynote addresses by renowned communication scholars, Dr. John Otu and Dr. Kenneth Adibe Nwafor.
Leading up to the main event, the NUJ organized several community-focused activities, including outreach to underprivileged communities, a road walk, a novelty football match, and a medical outreach.
The NUJ has extended invitations to members of the National and State Assemblies, local government officials, industry leaders, civil society organizations, and the general public to participate in the celebration and advocacy for improved media welfare and democratic values.
Comrade Nwafor expressed optimism that the 2025 Press Week grand finale will be among the most impactful in the Council’s history, strengthening the media’s indispensable role in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance.