The emergence of Akeem Babatunde Abas as Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, marked the beginning of a new era defined by vision, inclusiveness, and purposeful leadership.
Members and stakeholders of the council spoke with one voice during the election, entrusting Abas with the responsibility to pilot the affairs of the union alongside a team of committed executives.
Popularly known as ALAKIME, Abas is a Bloomberg scholar and a seasoned editor with the News Agency of Nigeria, bringing to the office a wealth of professional experience and global exposure.
From the moment he was inaugurated, Abas demonstrated readiness for leadership, hitting the ground running with remarkable energy, focus, and a clear sense of direction.
His administration immediately began to reflect a deep commitment to fulfilling campaign promises and meeting the high expectations of journalists across Oyo State.
One of his earliest interventions was the comprehensive cleanup of the NUJ Press Centre, restoring order and dignity to the environment.
At his first Congress held on January 10, 2026, the Chairman took a bold step by reinstating all deregistered chapels affected during the electioneering period.
This move restored the number of chapels in the council to eighteen and reinforced unity within the union, while also setting the stage for an aggressive membership drive.
To improve communication and coordination during congresses and official engagements, the administration procured and installed a modern Public Address (P.A) system, which end years of reliance on rented equipment.
The earliest highlight of his administration was the organisation of a colourful and spiritually uplifting Christmas Carol on December 23, 2025.
This was followed by the distribution of a multimillion-naira rice package to members, an unprecedented welfare initiative in the recent history of the council.
Demonstrating administrative foresight, Abas terminated the contract arrangement on the NUJ Guest House to ensure transparency and accountability.
In its place, he constituted a five-man Press Centre Management Committee, duly approved by Congress, to oversee operations and properly document tenancy arrangements.
To enhance the living conditions of staff at the Press Centre and promote a more positive work ethic, Abas approved a salary increase, with the least-paid staff now earning a minimum of ₦70,000.
Infrastructure development has also received significant attention under his leadership, reflecting a commitment to improving the working environment of members.
The repair of the 40KVA generator donated by Engr. Femi Babalola (Jogor) restored stable power supply to the Press Centre.
Complementing this effort is the ongoing construction of a permanent generator house, strategically positioned to enhance security and ensure sustainability.
In tackling electricity challenges, Abas initiated engagement with the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) to address the burden of estimated billing.
This proactive move has already yielded results, with the approval of seven prepaid meters to be installed across the Press Centre.
Beyond infrastructure, the administration has prioritised unity and morale among members through thoughtful initiatives.
One such initiative is the introduction of customised graphic designs to celebrate members on their birthdays, strengthening interpersonal bonds within the union.
Capacity building has remained a cornerstone of Abas’ leadership philosophy since assumption of office.
His ambitious promise to train 300 journalists within three years is already nearing fulfillment, with about 250 journalists trained within just two months.
The January and February training series focused on artificial intelligence and life skills, equipping journalists with modern tools for improved performance and relevance.
These training programmes were facilitated through strategic partnerships with institutions such as the American Open University and Google Africa.
Plans for subsequent training sessions in March and April have already been concluded, ensuring continuity in professional development.
Abas’ leadership style, which is both hands-on and people-oriented, has consistently reflected a genuine passion for members’ welfare.
In the area of institutional collaboration, Abas facilitated a partnership between the NUJ and Ajayi Crowther University.
The collaboration focuses on practical media training for students, bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world journalism practice. Under this arrangement, 300-level and final-year students are exposed to newsroom operations and field reporting, enhancing their professional readiness.
Efforts to reclaim and revitalise the Press Centre have also seen the restoration of identities of key facilities named after past leaders.This initiative preserves institutional memory while restoring pride in the council’s heritage.
Demonstrating foresight in asset management, Abas secured a lease agreement with Womai City for the development of a five-star hotel. The project, located behind the Dapo Aderogba Hall, operates under a Build-Operate-Transfer arrangement and is expected to boost the council’s revenue base.
In line with his welfarist approach, the Chairman also distributed Ramadan packages to members, including rice and milk, to support them during the fasting period.
Further strengthening the union’s institutional relevance, Abas reclaimed the slot for the production of the state government’s commemorative magazine. This opportunity, previously lost for over six years, has now been revived under the NUJ.
To effectively manage this, the council established an official publication titled 'Leadership Focus'.
As his administration marks its first 100 days, the achievements recorded so far clearly reflect a leadership driven by vision, action, and measurable impact.
Abas has not only set a new standard for leadership within the NUJ Oyo State Council but has also repositioned the union for greater relevance and sustainability.
The journey ahead may still be long, but the foundation laid within this short period provides strong assurance of even greater accomplishments.
_Temidayo Adu is the Secretary, NUJ, Oyo State Council.
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