Akeem Babatunde Abas, a veteran journalist and Correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Oyo State, has formally declared his intention to contest the chairmanship of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council.
Abas, popularly known as Alakime, made the declaration at a well-attended event themed “Raising the Bar, Preserving the Legacies.” He said his decision to join the race was inspired by sincerity of purpose, service to colleagues, and a commitment to advancing the practice of journalism in the state.
He emphasised that his ambition was anchored on collective progress rather than personal interest, noting that true leadership must be defined by purpose, integrity, and measurable impact.
Acknowledging the contributions of past leaders, Abas commended the solid foundation laid by successive administrations of the Oyo NUJ and stressed the need to consolidate on those achievements while charting a more inclusive and forward-looking future for the union.
If elected, Abas pledged to prioritise members’ welfare, promote capacity-building through regular training, encourage digital transformation in newsrooms, uphold professional ethics, and strengthen unity among chapels for a more transparent and responsive union.
Addressing perceived distractions surrounding his campaign, Abas said he remained unfazed by blackmail or insinuations, insisting that such acts only confirm that his message and mission are gaining ground among members.
He assured that his campaign would remain issue-based, free of bitterness and divisiveness, while reaffirming that the NUJ is a professional, non-partisan body built on fairness, inclusiveness, and mutual respect.
Abas urged journalists across Oyo State to rally behind his vision of “raising the bar and preserving the legacies” in order to build a stronger, more united and progressive NUJ that truly serves its members.
