Support with Challenge: Otti Urges NUJ to Stand on Its Own

By Our Corespondent 

Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, has expressed his administration’s willingness to assist the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State Council, in completing and owning a permanent secretariat in Umuahia.

This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Chief Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State, Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha.

According to the statement, Governor Otti received in audience a delegation of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State Council, led by its Chairman, Comrade Chidi Asonye, at his office.

While assuring the journalists of his administration’s readiness to provide support in critical areas, the Governor encouraged the Union to explore alternative funding strategies, including partnerships and internally driven fundraising initiatives.

Governor Otti tasked members of the NUJ to adopt self-sustaining funding models, stressing the importance of maintaining independence in order to carry out their professional duties without undue influence.

 He warned that reliance on government subvention could compromise the Union’s integrity and editorial independence.

“I listened to the challenges you outlined, particularly the issue of a permanent secretariat. You mentioned that Abia is the only state in the federation without one, and I have taken note of that.

“From your presentation, it appears that there is a structure already under construction. How far has it gone? You indicated that only the foundation has been laid. We will review the situation and see how we can assist.

“You also mentioned mobility and subvention. On mobility, we can find ways to support you.

“However, I have reservations about the request for subvention. My understanding is that your Union is independent of government. Once government begins to fund your operations regularly, you risk becoming an extension of government, and inevitably, you may lose your voice.

“I want you to remain independent and retain your voice. That is the only way society can truly benefit from your role.

“As the saying goes, ‘he who pays the piper dictates the tune.’ Therefore, there must be a sustainable way for you to fund your activities.

“We are willing to support you, but I do not agree that any non-governmental body should receive subvention,” Governor Otti stated.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the NUJ Abia State Council, Comrade Chidi Asonye, reaffirmed the commitment of journalists in the state to upholding the principles of truth, fairness, and professionalism in the discharge of their duties. 

He also expressed the Union’s readiness to partner with the state government in promoting good governance.

“We remain dedicated partners in your vision for a new Abia, ready to tell the story of progress with accuracy, integrity, and pride,” Asonye said.

He noted that the Union continues to grapple with challenges that significantly hinder its effectiveness, including the absence of a permanent secretariat and inadequate mobility.

“One of our most pressing concerns is the absence of a permanent secretariat for the council. Out of the 37 NUJ councils across the federation, Abia remains the only one without a secretariat it can call its own.

“Your Excellency, we respectfully appeal for your urgent intervention in completing this project. We also urge that the structure be reviewed and upgraded to fully serve its intended purpose.

“Furthermore, we humbly request that the state government consider extending subvention to the council,” Asonye stated.

He commended Governor Otti for his achievements in infrastructure development and broader governance reforms across the state.

“Your Excellency, we must acknowledge the visible strides your administration has made. Your commitment to infrastructural renewal particularly in road construction, environmental sanitation, education, youth empowerment, and the restoration of order in our cities has rekindled public confidence.

“Your emphasis on transparency and your efforts in repositioning Abia as a hub for enterprise have not gone unnoticed. Indeed, your leadership is gradually redefining the narrative of our state,” he added.

Those present at the meeting included the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Ph.D; the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma; as well as other media aides to the Governor.