The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has announced the re-launch of its flagship programmes, “Oyo NUJ Hot Seat” and “Oyo NUJ Bi-Monthly Guest Forum,” as part of efforts to deepen democratic engagement and promote professional journalism.
The union in a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Comrade Akeem Abas and Secretary, Comrade Temidayo Adu, said the initiative was aimed at providing credible platform for interaction between public office holders and the people.
It said that programmes would also strengthen the role of the media in fostering accountability and transparency.
The NUJ explained that the Hot Seat Programme would feature live, incisive interviews with politicians, key government officials and stakeholders, offering journalists the opportunity to interrogate issues and bring issues of public concern to the front burner.
It said that the bi-monthly Guest Forum would serve as a high-level discourse platform where leaders across various sectors would engage with journalists and the public on critical socio-economic and political issues.
The union said that the re-launch aligns with the council’s broader vision of repositioning journalism in Oyo State through innovation, capacity building and adoption of modern media practices.
It added that the programmes would also complement ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing professionalism and equipping journalists with relevant skills in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
“The media remains a critical pillar of democracy and these platforms will further reinforce our commitment to truth, accountability, and public enlightenment,” it said.
The NUJ called on political leaders, government agencies, private organisations
and development partners to support the initiative, assuring that the programmes would be impactful, inclusive and beneficial to society at large.
The council reaffirmed its resolve to continue championing initiatives that elevate journalism practice and contribute meaningfully to good governance in Oyo state and Nigeria.
