Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Nasarawa State Council, Comrade Salihu Alkali has commended the campaign team of a chairmanship aspirant, Sunday John for embarking on issue-based campaigns ahead of the July 20, 2026 council elections.
Alkali gave the commendation on Tuesday in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital during a campaign visit of the ‘team Sunday John for NUJ Chairman’ to the Radio Nigeria Precious FM Chapel.
He further advised other aspirants vying for the various elective positions of the NUJ to follow suit in ensuring that their campaigns are issue-based in order not to cause disaffection among members of the union.
The NUJ Chairman urged the aspirant to work towards fulfilling his promises, and prioritise the welfare of members of the union if he emerges victorious during the forthcoming elections.
Alkali emphasised that the achievements and successes of the about six years of his administration were a collective effort achieved with the support of executives like Sunday John.
He further advocated for a peaceful transition ahead of the July 20 election, while urging all contestants to prioritise the union’s cohesion.
The NUJ Chairman used the opportunity to advise the chairmanship aspirants to unite and avoid a fierce, divisive contest.
Alkali emphasised that the forthcoming election should serve as a platform to strengthen the bonds among NUJ members rather than cause unnecessary rifts and disagreements.
Alkali added, “I wish you well. And your people are doing well because the campaign is an issue-based campaign. No attacks. Whoever God chooses, they will hand over the mantle of leadership to him or her.
“May God give us unity. To the aspirant, one thing I want you to do is if peradventure you are given the mandate, try to consolidate. Try to ensure peace.
“There are people that will make you angry but you have to be patient with human beings. You have to be patient with them. So I want to wish you well. May God help all of us.”
On his part, the NUJ chairmanship aspirant, Sunday John unveiled his blueprint of continuity and fresh perspectives, aimed at positioning the council for more infrastructure and welfare benefits that will enhance working conditions and environments for all journalists in the state.
He promised to uphold the integrity of the union, and assured members of the union that if elected into office, he will work towards taking the union in the state to greater heights.
John who is a staff of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) and current Secretary of NUJ in the state, while campaigning under the banner of “Continuity and Fresh Perspective,” promised to leverage on his extensive institutional experience to deliver the needed service.
He describes himself as a seasoned unionist and a dependable pillar of support who has positioned himself as the natural successor to the outgoing administration and is ready to take the mantle of leadership having served two successful terms as the council’s State Secretary within the last six years.
The aspirant, therefore pledged to build upon the foundation laid by the outgoing Chairman, Comrade Salihu Alkali, and inject innovative ideas to enhance the welfare, security, and professional standing of practicing journalists in the state.
John emphasised that his agenda rests on absolute continuity, promising to complete all ongoing policies, programmes, and projects initiated by the Alkali administration.
“I will install high-capacity solar power systems to guarantee a 24/7 electricity supply, ensuring members can seamlessly charge their working tools and meet demanding editorial deadlines.
“I also intend to transform the Press Centre into a vibrant social and economic hub such as setting up a dedicated, state-of-the-art football viewing centre at the secretariat to drive member engagement and attract sports enthusiasts. Installing solar-powered street lights within and around the facility to create a safe evening environment for working journalists and visitors.
”I will also deploy a closed-circuit television network to safeguard the union’s property, deter theft or external harassment, and assist security agencies with reliable evidence if needed,” he added.
