By Usman Umar Girei
The Adamawa State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has ushered in a new era of leadership as Comrade Abdullahi Ibrahim of ATV Yola was officially sworn in as Chairman, following a keenly contested election held at the NUJ Secretariat in Yola earlier this week.
The election, conducted in a peaceful and transparent manner, marked the beginning of a fresh three-year tenure for the union’s executives. Declaring the results, Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Malam Yunusa Abdullahi, announced that Comrade Abdullahi Ibrahim clinched victory with a total of 123 votes, defeating his sole opponent, Comrade Fidelix Joctan of Fombina FM, who polled 45 votes. The remaining executive positions were filled unopposed.
In his acceptance speech, shortly after being sworn in, Comrade Abdullahi Ibrahim expressed heartfelt gratitude to members of the union for the confidence reposed in him. He assured journalists across the state that his leadership would be driven by transparency, accountability, and professional development, pledging to prioritize the welfare of members through training and retraining initiatives to enhance journalistic excellence.
“I want to assure you that under this leadership, there will be a renewed focus on unity, capacity building, and welfare. We must reposition the NUJ to reflect the evolving demands of journalism in today’s world. Together, we will move this union forward,” he stated.
He also lauded the national leadership of the NUJ for their consistent efforts in uplifting journalism both nationally and globally, and encouraged unity among members regardless of their affiliations or workstations.
During the swearing-in ceremony, the Press Secretary to the Adamawa State Governor, Mr. Humwashi Wonosikou, and the NUJ National Vice President (Zone E), Comrade Zare Baba, commended the conduct of the election, describing it as peaceful, credible, and a reflection of the union’s maturity. They congratulated the new executives and applauded Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for his unwavering support for media practitioners in the state.
“The peaceful transition we witnessed today is a testament to the strength and unity of the NUJ in Adamawa. We are confident that the new leadership will consolidate on the gains of the past and chart a progressive course for the future,” said Wonosikou.
In a rare display of sportsmanship, Comrade Fidelix Joctan congratulated Comrade Ibrahim on his victory and pledged his full support to the new leadership. “NUJ is not a political party where there is defection. We are one big family, united in purpose,” he remarked, expressing gratitude to members who previously elected him twice as the state chapter’s Secretary.
The newly inaugurated executives include:
Chairman: Comrade Abdullahi Ibrahim
Vice Chairman: Nwayinah Iddah
Secretary: Kissinga Bukar
Assistant Secretary: Mary Adamu George
Treasurer: Joy Diamond Leka
Financial Secretary: Awolabi Adenusi
Auditor: Hadiza Aliyu Mahmud
As the new leadership takes charge, members of the NUJ in Adamawa State look forward to a vibrant, united, and forward-thinking union that truly represents the voice of the Fourth Estate.
PIONEER NEWS 