The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahya, has commended the leadership of the Anambra State Council, describing the success of its 35th Anniversary Press Week as a testament to purposeful and progressive leadership.
Yahya gave the commendation during the council’s anniversary celebrations in Awka, where journalists and national executives gathered for a colourful evening of camaraderie and reflection.
The celebration featured a ceremony at an event centre, followed by a social gathering at Priestly Apartment, Awka, where members of the council hosted the NUJ national president and other colleagues.
The Chairman of the Anambra State Council, Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, who was visibly elated by the gathering, urged members to pose in front of the anniversary welcome banner for a group photograph, capturing one of the memorable moments of the celebration.
The atmosphere became more exciting with the arrival of Yahya, who travelled from Abuja to join the journalists in marking the milestone.
Dr. Emeka Odogwu and his Team Welcoming the NUJ President on arrival to the Programme in Awka
The journalists rose enthusiastically to welcome their national president. After taking in the warm reception and the ambience of the venue, Yahya addressed the gathering, expressing his delight at being part of the anniversary celebration.
“My dear colleagues, I am filled with great joy to be here in Awka today to share this moment with you. I came all the way from Abuja, and even though I arrived late, the love and spirit of comradeship I have felt here tonight have made my journey worthwhile,” he said.
Yahya commended members of the Anambra Council for what he described as their commitment to the ideals of journalism and the NUJ.
“I want to commend you all for upholding the true spirit of comradeship and for remaining steadfast as members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm,” he said.
Odogwu Emeka Odogwu and the NUJ President plus others during the event
He reserved special praise for Odogwu, noting that the successful 35th Anniversary Press Week reflected the chairman’s leadership and organisational efforts.
“I must specially commend my brother and Chairman of Anambra Council, Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, for his good works. The success of this 35th Anniversary is clear evidence of purposeful leadership,” Yahya stated.
He urged members of the council to continue supporting the leadership while working collectively to strengthen the union.
“I urge you to continue to support him as we build a stronger and more united NUJ,” he added.
His remarks were greeted with sustained applause from the journalists, who celebrated the occasion in a relaxed atmosphere of friendship, unity and professional fellowship.
The anniversary gathering ultimately provided an opportunity for members of the Anambra Council and national executives of the NUJ to celebrate the council’s journey while reaffirming their commitment to the journalism profession.