By Gbenga Akingbule
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other prominent Nigerian leaders are set to attend the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) 70th anniversary celebration, scheduled for Saturday, June 21, 2025.
Gatekeepers News reports that the grand event will take place at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, themed “Redefining Media Practice in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.”
In a statement signed by the Deputy National President of the NUJ and Chairman of the Organising Committee, Dr. Abimbola Oyetunde, the Union said the occasion will not only honour its historic journey but also confront the pressing realities shaping modern journalism.
“This is a celebration of the NUJ’s 70 years of unwavering commitment to protecting media freedom, advancing professionalism, and defending democracy,” Dr. Oyetunde stated.
“But it is also a time to reflect deeply on the disruptive changes in media practice, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence and digital manipulation.”
Other prominent leaders to attend are top national leaders, including the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas (Keynote Speaker), Governor Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Governor Hope Uzodinma (Imo State), Senator Douye Diri( Governor of Bayelsa), Alhaji Muhammed Inuwa)Governor Gombe, Bala Mohammed, Veteran Journalist (Governor Bauchi).
Also to attend include Abba Kabir Yusuf (Governor of Kano), Engr Seyi Makinde (Governor of Oyo), Prof Babagana Zulum (Governor of Borno), Yahya Bello (Former Governor of Kogi), Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, TUC President, Comrade Festus Osifo.
Also expected are Captains of Industry, all national officers of the Union, past NUJ presidents and secretaries, members of the Central Working Committee and NEC, and leaders of NAWOJ, who will be specially honoured for their contributions.
A major highlight of the celebration will be the unveiling of a commemorative book titled “70 Years of the NUJ: From Struggle to Strength,” authored by former NUJ National Secretary, Mr. Shuabu Lehman, who has devoted over three decades to the Union.
The NUJ @70 celebration underscores the union’s pivotal role in safeguarding press freedom, holding power accountable, and navigating the complexities of a fast-evolving media ecosystem. It promises to be a defining gathering of stakeholders shaping the future of journalism in Nigeria.
