NLC president advocates for media reform, calls for enhanced journalist welfare

Comrade Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), has emphasized the urgent need for media reform, advocating for better pay, insurance coverage, and pensions to improve the journalist welfare.

This call to action was made during his visit to Dr. Chris Isiguzo, President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), in Abuja.

Ajaero underscored the critical role that journalists have historically played in Nigeria, from the struggle for independence to the maintenance of democracy.

He pointed out the irony that those who have consistently fought for the nation’s progress are now struggling for their own financial stability.

“The welfare of journalists is being neglected despite their significant contributions,” Ajaero stated. “Journalists are essential workers who often sacrifice their personal time and well-being to report on events and issues. It’s disheartening that they have to beg for their salaries.”

He highlighted the worsening conditions in journalism, noting that while technology has advanced the field, the fundamental issues of fair compensation and job security have not been adequately addressed. Ajaero criticized the lack of support for journalist welfare, both from within their profession and from the broader public.

“Journalists do not have weekends, public holidays, or festive seasons off. They are constantly working to report on the activities of those who are enjoying these breaks,” he said. “When a journalist faces injustice, such as being sacked or unpaid, their peers often remain silent.”

To address these issues, Ajaero proposed the establishment of a biennial consultative mechanism to negotiate with media employers and set a minimum wage for journalists. He also called for comprehensive pension plans and insurance coverage to ensure journalists’ long-term security.

“Non-payment of journalists’ salaries should be considered a criminal offense,” Ajaero asserted. “While publishers face challenges, they must fulfill their obligations to their employees. It is unacceptable for reporters to spend their limited earnings on job-related expenses like transportation.”

Ajaero also addressed the need to regulate online media, suggesting that online journalists be integrated into the NUJ for better oversight and professional standards.

In response, NUJ President Chris Isiguzo acknowledged the union’s efforts to address the challenges faced by journalists.

“We are revising the Code of Ethics to include the responsibilities and obligations of employers to media workers,” Isiguzo said.

“We also need to resolve the issue of check-off dues not reaching the NUJ, which is a significant concern.”