By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has urged media organisations and journalists to prioritise credibility over the pursuit of online traffic, warning that the survival of Nigeria’s democracy depends on a responsible and ethical press.
Speaking at the Emporium Leadership Lecture and Award 2026 held to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Emporium Reporters and Emporium Magazine, Ike praised the organisation for sustaining credible journalism over the past decade despite the challenges confronting the media industry.
She described the establishment and survival of the media platform as “an act of faith” in journalism, the Nigerian people and the enduring value of truth, noting that many media organisations had been forced to shut down due to financial difficulties, editorial compromise and operational pressures.
According to her, Emporium’s decade-long journey demonstrates resilience, vision and commitment to the core values of journalism.
“Ten years of consistent, credible journalism is no small feat. It is a testament to resilience, vision, and an unrelenting commitment to the values that define our noble profession,” she said.
Congratulating the publisher, editorial team and staff of Emporium, Ike said the anniversary celebration was well deserved and reflected the organisation’s dedication to public-interest journalism.
Speaking on the lecture’s theme, “From Clicks to Credibility: Digital Media’s Role in Deepening Nigeria’s Democracy,” the NUJ FCT chairman lamented the growing trend of misinformation fuelled by the race to break news first.
She observed that while digital technology has made publishing easier, it has also blurred the distinction between professional journalism and unverified content.
“In an era where the speed of information often outpaces its accuracy, credibility is not negotiable. It is the foundation upon which public trust is built and democracy is sustained,” she stated.
Ike stressed that when the media loses credibility, society loses a vital guide, adding that a nation without a trustworthy press is left “navigating in the dark.”
She reaffirmed the commitment of the NUJ FCT Council to upholding ethical standards in journalism, describing the union as more than a trade organisation but a guardian of professionalism and accountability.
She pledged that the council would continue to support media organisations that prioritise truth, accountability and public interest while advocating for press freedom, journalists’ safety, improved welfare and a conducive environment for media practice.
The NUJ chairman also appealed to governments, corporate organisations and civil society groups to support credible media institutions through advertising, partnerships and funding for investigative journalism.
According to her, a healthy media ecosystem is essential for strengthening democracy and promoting transparency.
Congratulating recipients of the Emporium Leadership Awards, Ike urged them to see the honours as a call to greater service, courage and integrity rather than merely recognition for past achievements.
She also challenged young journalists and media practitioners to build their reputations through honesty, professionalism and ethical reporting, warning that credibility, once lost, is difficult to regain.
Ike concluded by congratulating Emporium Reporters and Emporium Magazine on their milestone anniversary, expressing optimism that the organisation’s next decade would be even more impactful and influential.
