From Mustapha Adamu, Kano
Kano state Commissioner of Information, Comrade Muhammad Garba has challenged the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Radio Television Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU) and Nigerian Guild of Editors to unite to pursue Media Enhancement Bill.
The bill, which entails proposal for good working conditions for journalists in Nigeria has been before the National Assembly for years without being passed into law.
Speaking at Annual Congress and Presentation of Award by RATTAWU, Pyramid Radio chapter in Kano yesterday, Garba noted that synergy between the three media organisations was key to the development of the profession in the country.
According to him, the working condition of practicing journalists in the country is a source of concern that needs a collective efforts among the unions to be addressed.
The commissioner noted that there is no reason why NUJ, RATTAWU and Guild of Editors would not come together to pursue the Media Enhancement Bill art the National Assembly, recalling that he tried his best to ensure actualization of the bill during his time as National President of NUJ.
“Quite a number of journalists in Kano, and even the country are not paid their salaries. Their welfare is paramount to the development of media industry in the country.
“ Therefore, synergy between these media unions is the best way to be able to achieve welfare for journalists.
“I therefore called on the NUJ, RATTAWU and Nigerian Guild of Editors to establish strong synergy to pursue the actualization of Media Enhancement Bill for the good working conditions of the practicing media practitioners,” he stated.
The Commissioner however expressed concern that traditional media is facing threat from the development of new media.
He expressed optimism that the traditional media is still relevant as society can’t survive without radio and television.
Garba however appealed to media owners to ensure enhancement of staff welfare and provision of modern equipment, training and retraining of workers.
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