NUJ Delta State Assesses Challenges of 2025, Sets Renewed Agenda for Journalism Practice in 2026

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, has reviewed the state of journalism practice in 2025, acknowledging both the trials faced by media practitioners and the opportunities ahead, while projecting a renewed professional resolve for 2026.

In a New Year statement jointly signed by the State Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, and the Acting Secretary, Comrade Josephine Omodior, the Union described 2025 as a tough year for journalists amid national economic hardship, social pressures, political tensions and the growing spread of misinformation.

According to the Council, these challenges had far-reaching implications on journalism practice, putting the resilience, ethics and professionalism of media practitioners to the test.
“Survival became a daily struggle for many journalists, and in some cases, the pressures blurred the fine line between principled journalism and expedient reporting,” the statement noted.

Despite these setbacks, the Union stressed that the year also highlighted opportunities for growth, citing journalists and media houses that embraced digital innovation, investigative reporting and solution-driven stories, which helped sustain credible journalism even in challenging circumstances.

However, the NUJ did not shy away from self-reflection, pointing out lapses within the profession that threatened public trust. The Council decried instances of complacency, unverified reporting, reliance on social media rumours and “copy-and-paste journalism”, warning that such practices undermine the integrity of the profession.

“Journalism is not a vocation of convenience; it is a sacred public trust,” the statement emphasized, calling for practitioners to uphold accuracy, fairness, courage and balance as core values of democratic engagement.

The Council also underscored the importance of personal and professional development, urging journalists to invest in training, research, and skills that reflect the evolving dynamics of the media landscape. It added that professionalism must also be seen in personal conduct, including appearance and discipline, noting that “the era of beggarly journalism must give way to confidence, integrity and self-respect anchored on professional excellence.”

Looking ahead, the NUJ Delta State Council expressed optimism that 2026 holds promise for improved welfare, institutional support, enhanced training and greater unity within the profession.

The statement reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to defending the rights of its members while insisting on responsibility, professionalism and ethical rebirth.
“The new year must mark a recommitment to excellence as we collectively reject mediocrity in journalism practice,” the Council said.

The NUJ Delta State Council extended New Year greetings to journalists and residents of Delta State, urging practitioners to strengthen their role as watchdogs and custodians of public trust as 2026 unfolds.