ASABA/Nigeria: Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, has urged the re-elected Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, and members of his executive to prioritise journalists’ welfare, professional standards and unity during their new three-year tenure.
Guwor, who chairs the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, said Oyowe’s return to office reflected the confidence journalists had placed in his leadership after his first term. He called on the chairman to build on his previous record and strengthen the union’s capacity to protect the professional interests of its members.
The Speaker’s position was conveyed in a congratulatory message issued in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Nkem Nwaeke, following the NUJ council election.
Guwor also congratulated the other members of the newly elected State Executive Council: Comrade Patrick Ochei, Vice Chairman; Comrade Felix Ekwu, Secretary; Comrade Josephine Omodion, Assistant Secretary; Comrade Caroline Ubini, Treasurer; Comrade Toju Oteri, Financial Secretary; and Comrade Ilaya Michael, Auditor.
He urged the team to work collectively, respect differing views and place the interests of the union above personal considerations. According to him, the success of the new administration will depend on its ability to foster cooperation and ensure that members’ concerns receive adequate attention.
“The strength of the NUJ lies in its oneness. I appeal to all contestants and stakeholders to close ranks and rally around the new leadership in the interest of the Union,” Guwor said.
He noted that the new executive faces important responsibilities, including improving members’ welfare, reinforcing professional standards and promoting ethical journalism amid the spread of fake news and the changing demands of digital media.
The Speaker further called for responsible reporting as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 campaigns and general elections. He urged journalists to maintain objectivity, fairness and balance while holding public officials accountable in accordance with the press’s constitutional role.
Guwor reaffirmed the Delta State House of Assembly’s willingness to work with the NUJ, describing the union as an important stakeholder in the democratic process. He also reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to press freedom and the safety of journalists.
He commended NUJ members for the conduct of the election and wished Oyowe and the new executive a peaceful and productive second term, expressing the expectation that their leadership would strengthen the union and advance journalism practice across Delta State.
