By Bunmi Agboola
Journalists have been urged to adhere strictly to professional principles and ethics in promoting justice, fairness, and unity for national development.
The call formed the focus of the 8th Shina Peller Ramadan Lecture and Iftar held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ Secretariat, Iyaganku, Ibadan.
The lecture, organised in collaboration with the Oyo State Council of the NUJ, was delivered by a Professor of Islamic Studies in the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, University of Ibadan, Professor Adam Akewula.
Delivering the lecture entitled, “Islamic Perspective on the Role of Journalists in Promoting Peace and Security,” Professor Akewula explained that information dissemination should be guided by humanity, ethics, and tolerance while also promoting religious harmony in the country.
Professor Akewula lauded the former Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Mr. Adewumi Faniran, for his display of sportsmanship and for sustaining the annual event.
The former member of the House of Representatives and sponsor of the lecture, Mr. Shina Peller, while quoting from Qur’an 49 verse 6, said journalists should see their current role in the society as a timely intervention, noting that the media has a long history of promoting democracy and accountability in the country.
Mr. Peller appealed to journalists to continue exposing corruption and abuses, promote the protection of human rights, and give voice to marginalized communities without fear or favour.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Oyo State Council, Mr. Akeem Abas, said since assuming office on December 9, 2025, he has initiated programmes focusing on journalists’ welfare, capacity building, ethical orientation, digital training, and strengthening professional unity across the state.
Mr. Abas also appreciated Mr. Peller for his immense contribution to the development of the media profession.
Present at the ceremony were the Deputy Director of News and Current Affairs, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, Mr. Adewumi Faniran, Zonal Director of the Nigeria Television Authority, NTA, Mr. Taiwo Iterogba as well as veterans and media professionals across the state.
Edited by Olaolu Fawole
