The emergence of Mr. Akeem Abas as Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, following the election held on December 9, 2025, marked the beginning of a new era of purposeful and people-oriented leadership.
The election, widely adjudged to be free, fair, and transparent, saw him defeat his opponents convincingly, thereby earning the mandate to lead the Council.
From the outset, he alongside the executive members, wasted no time in setting the tone for impactful governance. Despite assuming office with virtually no financial backing, the administration successfully organized its maiden Christmas Carol Service and distributed bags of rice worth millions of naira to members across various chapels of the Union—demonstrating an early commitment to members’ welfare.
During his campaign, the Chairman had pledged to train over 300 journalists within his three-year tenure. Remarkably, within just 100 days in office, he has facilitated the training of about 240 journalists in Artificial Intelligence (AI), a forward-looking initiative aimed at equipping members with modern media skills and enhancing professional capacity.
Addressing infrastructural challenges at the NUJ Press Centre in Ibadan, particularly the epileptic power supply, the leadership undertook the repair of the 40KVA Mikano generator at a cost of about half a million naira. This intervention has significantly improved alternative power supply to the facility.
The administration also confronted structural issues within the Council. Prior to the election, the number of chapels had been reduced from eighteen to eleven. At a Congress held on January 10, 2026, he highlighted the negative implications of this reduction and sought the support of members for the reinstatement of the affected chapels. The motion, moved by Chief Bola Ogunlayi of the Correspondents’ Chapel and seconded by Mrs. Eniola Adeaga of the BCOS Chapel, received overwhelming support.
To effectively drive his administration’s agenda which centere on welfare, professional development, discipline, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement, the Chairman constituted both standing and ad-hoc committees. These include the Press Centre Management Committee, Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, Training and Capacity Building Committee, and Project Execution Committee, among others.
In a bid to ensure financial sustainability and reduce overdependence on external funding, the leadership has taken proactive steps toward revenue generation. Notably, efforts are underway to expand the 18-room Guest House, while an agreement has been successfully signed for the lease of a parcel of land behind Dapo Aderogba Hall within the Press Centre to a reputable developer.
Under Mr. Abas’ leadership, the NUJ Oyo State Council has continued to strengthen its relationship with affiliate bodies such as the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN). The Council played a pivotal role in the successful hosting of the NAWOJ Zonal Executive Committee Meeting held in Ibadan between February 11 and 13, 2026.
To improve communication and coordination during congresses and official engagements, the administration procured and installed a modern Public Address System which puts an end to years of reliance on rented equipment.
Demonstrating inclusivity and religious tolerance, Chairman ensured the distribution of food items and provisions to members during the periods of Ramadan and Lent, thereby supporting adherents of both Islam and Christianity.
In recognition of the contributions of past leaders, Mr. Abas has also restored their names to key structures within the Press Centre, preserving their legacies. These include Gbenga Opadotun Building, Dapo Aderogba Hall, Alhaji Adewole Soladoye Building, and Seinde Dagunduro Building.
On staff welfare, the administration has aligned with the national minimum wage standard by increasing the salaries of Press Centre staff, ensuring that no worker earns below ₦70,000.
Additionally, the Council has introduced an official publication titled “Leadership Focus,” with its maiden edition set for release soon.
The magazine is expected to serve as a platform for professional engagement, policy discourse, and visibility for the Union.
Mr. Akeem Abas has continued to demonstrate exemplary leadership qualities marked by generosity, humility, inclusiveness, and a strong commitment to service. He carries his executive members along in decision-making processes and consistently seeks guidance from elders and stakeholders within the Council.
As he marks his first 100 days in office, his achievements reflect a leader driven by vision, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility. It is the collective hope of members that he will continue to be divinely strengthened, guided, and endowed with the wisdom and good health required to fulfill all his promises.
By Khalid Imran
Ex-Officio/Chief of Staff to the Chairman, NUJ Oyo State Council
