Matthias Ogbagah Sworn In As NUJ Ughelli Chairman, Promises Inclusive Leadership

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ughelli Correspondents Chapel, inaugurated the newly elected executive on Thursday for the next three years, charging them to uphold the ethics of the profession.

Those inaugurated were Comrade Matthias Ogbagah, Chairman; Comrade Moses Omovevah, Vice Chairman; and Comrade Ezekiel Kagbala, Assistant Secretary.

Meanwhile, Comrade Monica Ogbaudu and Comrade Mamuzo Efidhere will be sworn in at the next Congress.

The oath of office was administered by the Acting Secretary of the NUJ Delta State Council, Comrade Josephine Omoridion.

In his acceptance speech, the newly inaugurated chairman of the NUJ Ughelli Correspondents Chapel, Comrade Matthias Ogbagah, promised to abide by the union’s constitution and to involve all members in his administration.

Calling on all members to support the executive to succeed, he emphasized that the chapel will develop from where they left off.

Comrade Ogbagah warned against any behavior that could lead the union into a dark age or drag its name through the mud.

“Refrain from any unruly behaviours capable of damaging the image of the union. Be objective in your reportage,” he said.

On his part, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Delta State Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, charged the newly inaugurated executive to always adhere to the ethics of the profession.

Comrade Oyowe appealed for unity among all members, urging inclusiveness in their operations.

Earlier, the immediate past chairman of NUJ Ughelli Correspondents Chapel, Olorogun Sunday Apah, said serving as chairman had not only been an honour but a profound privilege.

He expressed appreciation to all members for the trust and confidence placed in him when they elected him to the position.

According to him: “Your support, cooperation, and dedication have been the pillars upon which we have built our achievements during this period.

“Together, we have faced challenges—some anticipated, others unforeseen—but through collective effort, resilience, and a shared commitment to professionalism, we have navigated them successfully.

“We have advocated for the rights and welfare of journalists in our domain, defended press freedom, and worked tirelessly to uplift the standards of journalism in Ughelli.

“I am proud of the initiatives we launched, including renting a new secretariat, furnishing it, installing a signpost, placing portraits of past chairmen, and more. These milestones were possible because of your active participation and unwavering collaboration.

“I want to particularly thank our executive team and committee members for their hard work and dedication. Your teamwork and willingness to serve made my role lighter and the successes sweeter.

“As I hand over the baton to the incoming chairman, I urge all members to continue supporting our Chapel with the same enthusiasm and commitment. Let us remain united, principled, and courageous in the pursuit of truthful, ethical journalism.

“Let me reassure you that I remain your loyal member and a willing contributor to the growth and progress of NUJ Ughelli Correspondents Chapel,” he added.

The election and inauguration were attended by top members of the NUJ in Ughelli and other chapels, including Comrade Pere Botu and Comrade Akpokona Omafuaire.