Comrade Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), has called for better pay, insurance coverage, and pension plans for journalists nationwide.
Ajaero made these remarks during a visit to Dr. Chris Isiguzo, President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), in Abuja.
Ajaero highlighted the critical role journalists have played in Nigeria’s fight for independence and the current democracy.
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Despite their significant contributions, many journalists struggle with unpaid salaries and poor working conditions. “The welfare of journalists is being underplayed,” Ajaero stated. “While journalists fight for everyone, nobody fights for them.”
Ajaero emphasized that journalists often work without weekends, public holidays, or festive breaks, covering events for others who are enjoying these times off.
He criticized the lack of solidarity within the profession, noting that injustices against journalists, such as unfair dismissals or unpaid wages, often go unreported by their peers.
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To address these issues, Ajaero proposed the establishment of a consultative machinery that would convene every two years to negotiate a minimum wage for journalists with media employers.
He also called for pension plans and insurance coverage to support journalists throughout their careers and into retirement.
Ajaero stressed that the non-payment of salaries should be treated as a criminal offense, urging media employers to fulfill their obligations despite the financial challenges they may face.
Ajaero also highlighted the need for better regulation of online media, advocating for their inclusion within the NUJ to ensure they adhere to professional standards.
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In response, NUJ President Isiguzo acknowledged ongoing efforts to address the challenges within the journalism profession.
He mentioned a review of the Code of Ethics, which will outline the responsibilities of media employers towards their workers.
Isiguzo also raised concerns about the allocation of check-off dues, which are not reaching the NUJ, and called for this issue to be addressed.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of improving working conditions for journalists to ensure they can continue their vital role in society effectively and ethically.