By Qudirat Hakeem-Apanpa
Journalists have been urged to deploy their God-given talents, uphold truth and maintain professional integrity in their reporting to sustain democracy and strengthen good governance in Nigeria.
The Chief Imam of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Imam Ibraheem Mohammad Al-Amin, gave the admonition during a Jumat service organised by the Oyo State Council of the union as part of activities marking its 60th anniversary and 2026 Press Week.
Imam Al-Amin stressed that journalists, as custodians of public trust and mirrors of society, must ensure that their reports are balanced, credible, fair and impartial.
He noted that the public’s confidence in the media places a significant responsibility on journalists to disseminate accurate information without fear or favour.
According to him, Nigeria’s democratic system can be sustained only when professionals across sectors discharge their responsibilities conscientiously, particularly journalists, whose duty is to report events truthfully and objectively.
Quoting Islamic teachings, the cleric warned that Allah (SWT) would hold accountable those who know the truth but deliberately fail to speak out, adding that journalists, like other professionals, would also be answerable for how they discharge their responsibilities.
He therefore urged media practitioners not to compromise the truth for personal, political or other interests.
In his remarks, the Special Guest of Honour, the Deputy Governorship Candidate of the Action Peoples Party (APM), Engr. Muftau Open Salawu, commended the NUJ for its contributions to journalism and society over the past 60 years.
He urged journalists to remain steadfast in their professional responsibilities, particularly during the electioneering period, by ensuring balanced, responsible reporting that can prevent misinformation and politically induced crises.
Salawu also pledged to deploy his professional experience and resources towards supporting the union, assuring it of his commitment to making meaningful contributions to its development.
