Taraba NUJ Tasks Government on Welfare, Security of Citizens.
By Christiana Babayo
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Taraba State Council, has issued a strong call to the state government to take urgent and deliberate actions on key socio-economic and security concerns threatening the welfare of residents and the stability of the state.
The call was made during the Congress meeting of the Union held on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Press Centre in Jalingo, where members critically reviewed the state of the union and the broader state of the State.
Presided over by the State Chairman of the NUJ, Comrade Mathew Eliud Jen, the Congress emphasized the need for the government to address pressing issues affecting the people of Taraba, ranging from environmental threats to dilapidated infrastructure and public sector welfare.
Among the key resolutions was a strong appeal to the Taraba State Government to take proactive steps to mitigate impending flood disasters across the state.
The Union noted that climate patterns signal worsening flood risks, urging the government to prioritize prevention over disaster response.
The NUJ called for interim measures to salvage the collapsed Namnai Bridge, a critical link that has witnessed multiple tragedies due to inaction.
On internal security, the Union tasked the government to act decisively in resolving the ongoing communal crisis in Bandawa, Karim-Lamido Local Government Area, stressing the need for a peaceful and secure environment for all citizens.
Addressing concerns over infrastructure, the Congress expressed concern over the deplorable state of the State Secretariat complex, calling for speedy renovations to restore dignity to the administrative headquarters of the state.It also urged the administration to honour its promise to renovate the NUJ Press Centre, which remains central to media operations in the state.
NUJ also raised alarm over alleged extortion by security personnel enforcing the motorcycle ban in Jalingo metropolis.
The union warned that unchecked harassment of residents and commercial riders under the guise of enforcement could breed resentment and instability.
With the November 2025 Local Government Council Elections fast approaching, the Congress urged political parties and actors to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and law-abiding electoral process.
It stressed the importance of upholding democratic principles and avoiding actions that could incite violence or undermine public trust.
The NUJ called on the government to expedite the payment of pensions and pending gratuities to retired workers, stressing that many retirees continue to suffer due to delayed entitlements.
The NUJ also commended the Press Week Planning Committees for successfully organizing activities that made the week a huge success.
