November 19, (THEWILL) — The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, has called on the Federal Government to urgently begin work on the Namnai bridge, describing its deplorable state as a major obstacle to movement in and out of Taraba State.
Yahaya made the appeal on Tuesday at the opening of the NUJ National Media Summit in Jalingo, where he lamented that several journalists coming from across the country spent long, exhausting hours trying to cross the bridge due to its poor condition.
He stated that the Namnai bridge, a critical link connecting Taraba to neighbouring states, has become a source of hardship for motorists and pedestrians, stressing that its rehabilitation should be treated as a priority.
“Some of our members heading to Jalingo for this summit were stuck for hours at the Namnai bridge. This situation is unacceptable for a major gateway into the state. We appeal to the Federal Government to hasten repair works so that economic activity, emergency movement and interstate access can continue without unnecessary stress”, Yahaya said.
The NUJ president’s remarks set the tone for the national summit, which brought together journalists from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), alongside media scholars, industry experts and veteran practitioners.
Held at the Patience Event Centre, Jalingo, the summit focused on strengthening media practice in an age marked by misinformation and declining public trust.
Declaring the summit open, Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, welcomed participants and described the gathering as a strategic moment for collaboration. He emphasised that the press is not an enemy of government but a vital bridge between leaders and citizens.
“Taraba remains a safe home for every journalist,” the governor assured. “We will keep our doors open so that your work is easier and more impactful. Together, let us build a nation where truth reigns.”
Taraba State NUJ Chairman, Matthew Jen, also welcomed delegates and praised the national leadership for the initiative, expressing hope that the summit would strengthen unity and professionalism within the industry.
In his wider address, Comrade Yahaya highlighted misinformation as one of the gravest threats to journalism worldwide. He said the theme of the summit, “Rebuilding Trust: Media Integrity in the Age of Misinformation”, reflects the urgent need to restore public confidence.
“It is a call to confront the negative narratives that have weakened confidence in our profession. It reminds us that trust is the foundation of journalism and that without integrity, we lose the very soul of our calling.
“In an era where anyone can reach millions within seconds using a smartphone, the burden on professional journalists has never been heavier”, he noted.
Yahaya also announced plans by the union to introduce a health insurance scheme for journalists in collaboration with partner unions.
Delivering the keynote address, Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Kashere, Professor Umaru Pate, warned that the growing activities of quacks continue to undermine the credibility of the media. He urged journalists to strengthen their ethical responsibilities and acquire technological skills to remain relevant.
“The friction between social media and conventional media has left many citizens confused about what to believe; as such, any state unable to strengthen its information ecosystem is at risk”, Pate said.
Pate stressed the need for journalists to remain ethically responsible, especially as technological innovations reshape the media landscape.
Other speakers, including Dr Josiah Kente and Dr Jeji Williams, called for enhanced professionalism, stricter enforcement of ethical standards, and the revival of the Journalism Enhancement Bill. They also advocated the establishment of a national training and research institute for journalists.
