NUJ Makes Major Move to Reunite Sports Writers, Strengthen Legal Protection for Journalists

By Vivian Iwu 

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DUTSE, Jigawa — The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has taken a major step towards rebuilding unity within the journalism profession, formally approving the reabsorption and reintegration of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) into the Union.

The decision was one of the major outcomes of the NUJ National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Dutse, Jigawa State, on August 11, 2026, where the leadership also approved a proposed legal support arrangement for journalists and took a firm position on responsible reporting of terrorism and insecurity.

The NEC, chaired by National President Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, said the return of SWAN to the NUJ family was driven by the need for professional solidarity, inclusiveness and a stronger journalism community.

Accordingly, the Council recognised the current SWAN leadership under Comrade Isaiah Benjamin and approved its reintegration into the NUJ structure in line with the Union's constitutional provisions and procedures.

The development could mark an important turning point in efforts to unite different professional interests within Nigeria's media industry, particularly at a time when journalists face increasing security, economic and professional pressures.

In another significant decision, the NEC approved a proposed partnership with a reputable law firm to provide legal representation, advisory services and other legal assistance to the Union and its members.

The initiative is expected to be particularly useful in states where litigation involving the Union arises, while also strengthening the ability of journalists to defend their professional rights and interests.

At a time when journalists increasingly face legal threats, harassment and other pressures in the course of their duties, the proposed arrangement could provide an important layer of institutional protection.

The NEC also issued a strong call for responsible reporting of terrorism, banditry, insurgency and other security challenges.

While reaffirming the media's duty to inform the public, the Union urged journalists and media organisations to avoid sensational reporting, glorification of criminal groups and excessive prominence that could inadvertently amplify terrorist propaganda, aid recruitment or enhance the public profile of violent organisations.

The position comes amid continuing concerns over the delicate balance between national security, public information and press freedom.

The NUJ, however, commended security agencies, particularly the Department of State Services (DSS), for their partnership and support towards journalists, urging them to deepen collaboration with the media.

The Council also applauded the Bauchi State Government for approving and releasing over ₦400 million for comprehensive renovation of the NUJ Secretariat in the state.

The Union described the investment as a significant demonstration of support for journalism and challenged other state governments to provide better working environments and facilities for journalists.

But beyond infrastructure, the NEC's resolutions suggest that the Union is seeking a broader relationship with governments—one capable of improving both the working conditions and professional capacity of journalists.

The NEC equally commended UN Women for its continued partnership with the NUJ, particularly in strengthening the capacity and professional opportunities of women journalists.

The Council also urged journalists to pay greater attention to food security, mechanised agriculture, rural development and sustainable economic growth, citing the Jigawa State Government's agricultural initiatives as worthy of greater media attention.

Meanwhile, the proposed Northern States Security Summit in Zamfara received NUJ endorsement, with members expected to participate actively in discussions aimed at confronting insecurity and improving protection for journalists and communities.

The meeting was not without disciplinary action.

The NEC approved the suspension of five members for alleged anti-Union activities—two from Cross River State Council and three from Kwara State Council.

Those affected are Ubon Ekanem and Edem Archibong of Cross River State Council, and Dare Akogun, Mosunmola Ayobami and Usman Adamu Sabi of Kwara State Council.

The Union urged members to respect its Constitution and utilise established internal mechanisms for resolving disputes.

As part of efforts to reposition the Union, NEC also approved the organisation of two additional national events before the end of 2026, focusing on professional development, networking, institutional unity and members' welfare.

The Council further resolved to expand partnerships with state and local governments, development organisations, professional bodies and other stakeholders.

Taken together, the Dutse resolutions point to an NUJ attempting to address several pressure points simultaneously: unity within the profession, legal protection, journalist safety, ethical reporting, women's advancement, institutional welfare and stronger engagement with government.

The reintegration of SWAN may, however, prove to be the most symbolically important of the decisions.

For a profession whose strength depends heavily on collective solidarity, the question now is whether the renewed unity will translate into better protection, improved welfare and greater professional independence for journalists across Nigeria.

The NEC ended by reaffirming its determination to build a stronger, united and professionally responsive Union capable of protecting journalists while contributing meaningfully to national development.