NUJ Set to Revalidate Journalists in Imo …As EXCO Kicks Off Tour of Media Houses

• INPA Chairman lauds Akaraonye’s leadership on reforms

In a bid to checkmate the unprofessional activities of impostors and quacks in the journalism profession, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has commenced revalidation of practicing journalists in Imo State.

The chairman of NUJ, Imo State Council, Comrade Chris Akaraonye disclosed this when he led his executives on a tour to Trumpeta Newspaper last Wednesday.

Akaraonye while addressing the publishers of the media house, said at the last State Congress, members were informed that the executives will embark on a tour of all media houses/chapels.

He decried the infiltration of quacks into the profession and their unwholesome activities, adding that the revalidation is aimed at eradicating or reducing to the barest minimum the nefarious activities of fake persons posing as journalists.

The NUJ Chairman called on the state government to assist newspaper publishers financially, stressed that these media organisations have help to reduce unemployment by engaging many Imo citizens as workers.

He urged newspaper publishers to employ only qualified journalists.

Responding, Chairman of Imo Newspaper Publishers Association (INPA), Mr Henry Ekpe commended Comrade Chris Akaraonye and his executives for the bold step to carry out reforms in the NUJ.

Ekpe who is one of the Publishers of the newspaper said it is a very tough task, as the profession seems to be a haven for almost everyone who wants to find something to do for a living.

He prayed God to strengthen the NUJ executives in carrying out the reforms as they will step on toes.

In his contribution, a veteran journalist and co-publisher of the Media outfit, Chief Jerry Ogu said the task of reforming the profession is daunting as many quacks operate on freelance basis due to lack of jobs.

A former Vice Chairman of Imo NUJ, Chief Barthy Kalakiya thanked the Publishers of Trumpeta newspaper for recieving NUJ executives during the visit.

Other members of NUJ team include Juliet Dim, Secretary, Eze Adiuku, Assistant Secretary, Ifeanyi Nwanguma, Financial Secretary, Chidi Opara, Treasurer, Longinus Anyanwu, Internal Auditor and Francis Ebonugwo, Ex-officio.

CCA…