The Kwara State branch of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has reaffirmed its dedication to building a strong collaborative relationship with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) office in Kwara State.
At a recent meeting held in Ilorin, Abdullateef ‘Lanre Ahmed, chairman of the NUJ Kwara Council, alongside his executive team, engaged with Joshua Onifade, the NYSC State Coordinator. Their discussion centered on the union’s initiative to incorporate corps members into hands-on journalism assignments as part of their Place of Primary Assignment (PPA), providing them with invaluable field experience.
Ahmed highlighted the pressing need for joint efforts to address the rising youth unemployment crisis. He stated, “We are eager to open our doors to corps members and are committed to integrating them within our council as part of their PPA.”
He elaborated that this partnership is designed not only to prepare corps members for future job opportunities but also to equip them with essential journalistic competencies that will enhance their professional growth. “Our mission is to provide them with practical skills that will benefit their careers well beyond their service period,” Ahmed explained.
Emphasizing the importance of blending academic learning with real-world application, he added, “We aim to close the gap between theoretical knowledge and professional journalism, ensuring corps members are fully ready to excel in their careers.”
Furthermore, Ahmed suggested that the NYSC utilize the NUJ Press Centre as a collaborative space for corps members participating in Editorial Community Development Service groups. This would promote joint event coverage and encourage responsible, accurate reporting.
He also commended the NYSC leadership for relocating the Orientation Camp from Yikpata in Edu Local Government Area to the Kwara Polytechnic campus in Ilorin, citing enhanced security as the primary motivation behind the move.
Responding to the proposal, NYSC State Coordinator Joshua Onifade expressed strong support for deepening the partnership with the NUJ, acknowledging the critical roles both bodies play in shaping Nigeria’s global reputation.
Onifade assured that the NYSC would give priority to the NUJ when assigning corps members to their primary placements and encouraged journalists to uphold the highest standards of professionalism in their work.
He warned, “Journalists must exercise caution with their headlines, as misleading titles can misrepresent the true nature of a story.”
Highlighting the value of transparent communication, he added, “Avoiding media during interviews is counterproductive, but it is equally vital that the media report events with accuracy and fairness.”
“Promoting honest and responsible journalism is essential because negative portrayals of Nigeria or Kwara State can have long-lasting detrimental effects,” Onifade cautioned.
In closing, he urged media practitioners to leverage their platforms to inspire and positively shape the attitudes of young Nigerians nationwide.