By Amos Aar
THE BENUE State chapterof theNigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has announced its readiness to collaborate with the Benue State Polytechnic (Benpoly), Ugbokolo in training journalists to curb quackery and promote professionalism in the media industry.
The NUJ Chairman, Bemdoo Ugber, made this known on Thursday when he received a delegation from Benpoly, led by the institution’s former Head of Mass Communication Department and Desk Officer for Needs Assessment and Staff Training, Mr. Jacob Nongomin.
Addressing the delegation at the NUJ Secretariat, Comrade Ugber emphasised the union’s commitment to continuous training and retraining of journalists, particularly in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), to enhance their competitiveness.
“Our primary objective is to partner with institutions, organisations, and NGOs to ensure journalists in the state receive the necessary training to excel in their profession,” Ugber stated.
He further disclosed that the NUJ had set up a committee to screen and document all journalists in the state. He urged the Mass Communication Department of Benpoly to assist in ensuring that media practitioners without formal journalism qualifications have the opportunity to obtain the necessary credentials.
“We are looking forward to collaborating with any willing organization to establish a structured training program for our members. Very soon, we will engage with you to formalize this partnership and submit a proposal to the Benue State Ministry of Communication and the state government to facilitate these training sessions,” he added.
In his remarks, Mr. Jacob Nongomin congratulated Comrade Ugber on his election and expressed his support for the NUJ’s vision of strengthening journalism in Benue State. He highlighted the institution’s efforts to professionalise journalism through the introduction of a National Diploma Special (NDS) program, tailored for practicing journalists without formal Mass Communication degrees.
“Many journalists today hold degrees in other fields such as Geography, Political Science, or English, without a professional background in journalism. To address this gap, Benue Polytechnic has introduced a specialised diploma program that allows practicing journalists to obtain formal qualifications in Mass Communication,” Nongomin explained.
He noted that the NDS program runs for nine months to one year and includes coursework, projects, and practical training. He encouraged interested journalists to take advantage of this opportunity to enhance their skills and credibility in the field.
Nongomin also commended the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for his support of the media, particularly in providing medical assistance to NUJ members in need. He urged the governor to continue his good works and support for the journalism profession.
Additionally, he called on state authorities to prioritize security, urging leaders to adopt intelligence-driven approaches to address the insecurity affecting communities in Benue State.
Highlight of the visit was the presentation of a flyer containing details of Benue State Polytechnic’s Mass Communication programs to the NUJ chairman.
