By Onwa Ekor
Ahead the Beatrice Bassey Ita Investigative journalism award billed for Saturday, September 20, in Cross River, the duo of National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Hassan Yahaya, and his counterpart from the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim, have arrived Calabar.
The award, instituted in honour of the late media icon, is organised to celebrate outstanding journalists who demonstrate courage, diligence and integrity in their profession.
Speaking Friday, at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, the NUJ President disclosed that their presence was to honour the invitation of Senator Ita-Giwa and to celebrate journalists who have distinguished themselves in investigative reporting.
“We are here on the invitation of Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, first to assure her that we are together and to celebrate hard work, perseverance and journalists we believe have done wonderfully well in investigative reporting,” he said.
On the state of press freedom in Nigeria, Yahaya reaffirmed the constitutional role of the media, urging journalists to fully utilize existing legal frameworks in holding government accountable.
“As you all know, we have what we call the Freedom of Information Act, and as journalists we need to use such laws to ensure that government is accountable.
“Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution as amended, makes it clear that our duty is to hold government accountable.
“At this time, we must remain focused, build the capacity of our members and equip them with the constitutional provisions, code of ethics and practice so that they can do their jobs without fear or intimidation,” the NUJ President stated.
On her part, NAWOJ President, commended the organisers for reviving the award, describing it as a morale booster for journalists across the country.
“This is my second time coming to Calabar after 20 years and the first time I was here I was impressed by the tranquility, peace and hospitality of the people.
“I have always prayed to return to this state because it has so much similarity with where I come from.
“I want to commend the organisers and NUJ for rekindling this programme because it tells journalists that when you work hard, at the end of the day you will be appreciated,” she said.
Receiving the delegation at her residence, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, assured them of her continuous support for initiatives that promote quality journalism.
She commended the unions for their role in strengthening democracy through investigative reporting and pledged to continue standing by journalists in their efforts to hold leaders accountable.
