Katsina Times
The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Yahaya Abdulahi, has expressed concern that less than one percent of Nigerian journalists currently have any form of insurance cover, despite the high risks associated with their work, particularly in reporting insecurity and conflict.
Abdulahi made this known in Katsina while remarking at the annual lecture in commemoration of Katsina state creation, where he emphasized that the welfare and safety of journalists must be prioritized if the profession is to remain relevant and impactful.
“Research and data have shown that in Nigeria, less than 1% of journalists have any form of insurance. I think it is important for us as journalists to have insurance,” he declared.
The NUJ president pledged that under his leadership, the Union would work “tirelessly towards changing the narrative” by ensuring that journalists are adequately protected.
He argued that the profession has long been neglected in terms of welfare, with poor remuneration and lack of basic protections leaving journalists vulnerable.
“We cannot continue to risk our lives covering insecurity and developmental crises without adequate protection. The NUJ under my stewardship will try everything humanly possible to secure insurance cover for our members,” Abdulahi assured.
While focusing on welfare, Abdulahi also highlighted the wider crises facing Northern Nigeria, including high rates of out-of-school children, severe malnutrition, poor health facilities, and insecurity, argueing that journalists must take the lead in addressing these issues by embracing solutions-driven journalism and mentoring younger colleagues.
Abdulahi commended the Katsina State Government for its collaboration with the NUJ and urged further partnership in tackling insecurity and development challenges.
He praised the governor’s initiatives and expressed hope that citizens would soon be able to live in peace and sleep “with their two eyes closed.”
The NUJ president stressed that journalism in Nigeria cannot thrive without prioritizing the safety, welfare, and insurance of journalists, who continue to risk their lives to inform and educate society.
