Hassan Turaki.
The Jigawa State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, has taken a major step into the digital space with the formal launch of its Online Media Chapel on Tuesday in Dutse.
Addressing journalists and guests at the event, the State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Ismail Ibrahim, said the move demonstrates the Union’s readiness to adapt to the evolving media landscape while upholding professional standards.
“This is a proud and significant moment for us. Beyond creating another chapel, the inauguration of the Jigawa Online Media Chapel underscores our resolve to align with digital realities without compromising the ethics, integrity, and professionalism that define journalism,” Ibrahim stated.
He explained that the establishment aligns with the NUJ Constitution (2022, as amended), which officially recognises digital media professionals as bonafide members of the Union.
With the new chapel, the Jigawa NUJ Council now has eight recognised chapels: Ministry of Information, Radio Jigawa, JTV, Correspondents’, Freedom Radio, Horizon FM, NTA Dutse, and the newly formed Online Media Chapel.
The executives of Jigawa Online Media Chapel are;
- Sani Labaran Salisu – Chairman
(Editor, Mainstream Digital Media) - Bilyaminu El-idris Tudunwada – Vice Chairman
(Editor, Lauje 24) - Aliyu Muhammad Dangida – Secretary
(Editor, Hotpen) - Muhammad Usamat Suleiman – Assistant Secretary
(Editor, Northern Pilot) - Umar Aliku Majeri – Treasurer
(Editor, Mizani News) - Hassan Salihu Turaki – Financial Secretary
(Editor, Guarantee Media) - Inuwa Aliyu – Auditor
(Editor, The Syndicate)
The Chairman stressed that membership will be limited to credible online media outfits with known ownership, structured editorial teams, trained journalists, and strict compliance with the NUJ Code of Ethics. He noted that personal blogs, influencers, and unregulated platforms will not qualify.
He further said the chapel will serve as a platform for ethical practice, training, self-regulation, welfare, and stronger collaboration among digital journalists.
Ibrahim cautioned that the power of online journalism must be matched with responsibility. “Speed should not override verification, balance, and accuracy. We must fight misinformation, hate speech, and sensational reporting that erode public trust,” he warned.
He also expressed concern over negative and unverified reports about Jigawa on some online platforms, urging members to focus on factual, peace-oriented, and development-driven journalism.
To support digital work, the Chairman announced free internet access at the NUJ Press Centre to boost research and productivity. He also appreciated Governor Umar Namadi, FCA, and his Chief Press Secretary, Malam Hamisu Muhammad Gumel, for their support in establishing the chapel.
In his goodwill message, NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, described the launch as timely. Represented by National Trustee, Comrade Abbas Ibrahim, he said online media offers instant reporting, global reach, cost savings, multimedia storytelling, and better audience engagement.
The inauguration, stakeholders say, marks a new era for journalism in Jigawa as the Union positions its members to thrive in a technology-driven media environment.
