Dr. Moshood Wasiu Abiola (MOWA), a governorship aspirant in the forthcoming Oyo State elections, has congratulated Mr. Akeem Abas, an editor with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on his election as chairman of the Oyo State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ).
In a statement issued in Ibadan, Abiola described Abas’ emergence as a clear affirmation of credibility, professionalism and trust, earned through years of disciplined journalism and commitment to ethical reporting in the service of the public.
He said the transparent and competitive conduct of the election reflected the confidence reposed in Abas by journalists across chapels in the state to lead the union into a new era of unity, professionalism and welfare-driven advocacy.
“Journalism remains the conscience of society. The emergence of Akeem Abas, a seasoned editor and respected colleague, reassures the public that the NUJ in Oyo State is in safe, competent and principled hands,” Abiola said.
The governorship aspirant commended Abas’ acceptance speech, particularly his emphasis on fairness, transparency and unity, as well as his renewed commitment to professionalism, which he described as a timely response to the evolving challenges confronting the media profession in Nigeria.
Abiola also welcomed Abas’ declaration of a “state of emergency on professionalism,” noting that it resonated strongly with the urgent need to uphold truth, responsibility and integrity at a time of rising misinformation and social pressures on the media.
As Oyo State prepares for a future that demands informed citizens and accountable governance, Abiola reaffirmed his belief that a strong, independent and professional media remains indispensable to democratic development.
He wished Abas and the newly elected NUJ executive council a successful tenure marked by unity, courage and meaningful impact on the welfare and professional standing of journalists across the state.
Abas, an editor with NAN, was recently elected chairman of the Oyo NUJ, succeeding the immediate past leadership of the council.
