From TCNEWS
Umuahia, January 15, 2025 – The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State Council, concluded its monthly congress at the Press Centre, No. 66 Aba Road, Umuahia, with a series of resolutions aimed at enhancing the state’s journalistic and socio-economic landscape.
The key resolutions from the congress, chaired by Comrade Chidi Asonye, Chairman of the Abia State Council, include: Collaboration for Food Security, Support for Traditional Rulers, Leadership Commendation, Infrastructure Development, Economic Concerns, Pension and Gratuity Payments, Agricultural Initiatives, and Security Enhancements.
The congress lauded Comrade Chris Isiguzo, the immediate past National President of NUJ, for his innovative leadership that revitalized the Union. His successful organization of the National Triennial Delegates Conference in Owerri, 2024, was particularly praised, culminating in the election of Comrade Victor Ndukwe as the new National Treasurer.
Governor Alex Chioma Otti received accolades for his extensive infrastructure projects, notably in road development. The congress urged the continuation of efforts to improve rural access roads to stimulate economic growth in remote areas.
The congress appreciated Governor Otti’s increase in stipends for traditional rulers and encouraged these leaders to collaborate with security agencies to enhance community safety.
In light of economic challenges, the congress reiterated its call for the state government to settle pension arrears and resolve the judiciary staff’s industrial action to prevent further disruption of the justice system.
While acknowledging the regular pension payments to retirees, the congress appealed for the settlement of severance allowances and gratuities for affected Permanent Secretaries and Directors.
The congress emphasized the need to bolster local security forces, including the Homeland Security and Abia State Community Vigilante, to ensure safety during the upcoming farming season.
The congress commended Michael Okpara University of Agriculture for establishing the Agribusiness Incubation Centre, which aims to train farmers in modern agricultural techniques to boost food security and commercial agriculture.
In response to national food scarcity, the congress called for collaboration between state and local governments and agricultural stakeholders with the MOUAU Agribusiness Incubation Centre to enhance food production and alleviate hunger.
The congress, which began with a thanksgiving service led by Rev. Blessed Amalambu, setting a spiritual tone for the year ahead, saw Dr. Philip Nto, Director of the MOUAU Agribusiness Incubation Centre, recognized for his insightful presentation on the centre’s activities during the congress.