Lagos – Chief Jide Adebayo, Executive Director of the Lagos Operations of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday told the leadership of the Nigeria Union Journalists (NUJ) to focus on professionalism.  

Adebayo gave the advice in Lagos when the leadership of the Lagos State Council of the union paid him a courtesy visit.

Mr Deji Elumoye, the State Chairman of the council led other executive members on the visit.

Adebayo said that journalism had continued to face new challenges, in spite of technological advancements.

He said that a virile leadership that could tackle the increasing challenges facing the profession and its members’ welfare would serve the union and the nation better.

“The NUJ should not necessarily place too much emphasis on unionism but on professionalism of its members.

“We have the constitutional responsibility of providing information to all Nigerians about the policies of government and also making government accountable to the people through constructive criticisms, analytical reports and informed opinions.

“These will enable those who are in positions of authority to keep track with what is in the largest interest of the generality of Nigerians.

“When we have such huge responsibilities on our shoulders, it is only through a high level of professionalism that we can perform our legitimate duties, without let or hindrance and without equally failing the society that we are being developed to serve.”

Adebayo, a former Chairman of the Niger State Council of the NUJ, said that Lagos had been in the forefront of the growth of journalism in Nigeria.

He commended the past and present leaderships of the Lagos State Council of the union for championing the cause of national unity, pledging the support of the agency’s management to the union.

Elumoye said that the visit was aimed at welcoming an active member of the union back to Lagos.

“I remember the good things you did for us when you were in Lagos.”

Elumoye commended Adebayo for being part of the initiators of a virile, growing and biggest news agency in Africa.

He used the occasion to inform the executive director about the union’s forthcoming election, slated for Sept. 13 in Lagos.

Also, Mr Tayo Ikujuni, Chairman of the NAN Lagos Chapel, while welcoming the delegation, said the visit was also meant to familiarise the delegation with members of the chapel.

Other members of the delegation include Mr Jimoh Babatunde, Vice Chairman; Mrs Eyitayo Ladi-Arowa, Assistant Secretary and Mr Ayo Ilori, Financial Secretary.

/NAN