Chairmanship aspirant in the forthcoming election into the Oyo state council of Nigeria Union of journalists, Akeem Abas popularly known as Alakime, has emphasized that his work as a journalist is rooted in societal development rather than blackmail or propaganda.
He made the remark while addressing members of the State Information Chapel.
Abas, who leads the Great Minds Team, said journalism must remain a tool for advancing public interest. He stressed that the profession was never designed to fuel crises or spread misinformation.
Speaking during his visit to solicit support ahead of the December 9 NUJ election, Abas highlighted the need to correct negative perceptions about journalists. He noted that some members of the public wrongly view practitioners as blackmailers or propagandists.
According to him, journalism is built on professionalism, accuracy and ethical standards. He added that his leadership would prioritize strengthening these values within the union.
Abas stated that continuous training and development remain central to restoring confidence in the profession, stressing that journalists must be empowered with modern skills to meet global standards.
The chairmanship aspirant pledged that, if elected, his administration would train and retrain at least 300 journalists within three years. He described this as essential for improving competence across the state.
Abas, a Bloomberg scholar and Editor with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), also unveiled plans to launch a food bank initiative. The programme, he explained, would help ease economic hardship among union members.
Through the food bank, members would have access to essential food items at subsidized prices. Abas said this intervention would support journalists facing rising living costs and discourage brown envelope syndrome among journalists.
He further disclosed his intention to establish an Elders Advisory Council for the union. The council, he noted, would provide guidance, strengthen institutional memory and enhance programme execution.
Abas called on journalists across the state to support his vision for a more ethical, empowered and welfare-driven NUJ. He reaffirmed that his commitment remains centered on service, integrity and the advancement of the profession.
In his remark, the permanent secretary, Oyo State Ministry of Information, Mr Rotimi Babalola commended Alakime for unveiling a workable manifesto for the development of NUJ in Oyo state.
Mr Babalola, charged Akeem Abas to prioritize training of journalists when elected as the chairman of the council.
