The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, has described the just-concluded 2025 NUJ Press Week as a landmark success, despite initial challenges and opposition that trailed its planning and execution.
Speaking in a statement issued on Saturday in Asaba, Oyowe attributed the success of the week-long programme to divine intervention, collective resilience and the overwhelming goodwill of partners and stakeholders who rallied behind the union.
According to him, the journey towards the 2025 Press Week was fraught with difficulties from the outset, beginning with the constitution of the organising committee, but noted that the challenges were surmounted through commitment, unity and faith.
“Some individuals anticipated failure and in some cases worked overtly and covertly towards that end, but their expectations were completely overturned,” Oyowe said. “The 2025 Press Week recorded unprecedented success, marked by massive support mobilised through the instrumentality of God and the goodwill of distinguished partners and friends of the union.”
The NUJ chairman paid special tribute to Asiwaju Sola Adebayo, whom he described as a distinguished farmer, elder, veteran journalist and uncommon leader, noting that his encouragement and support opened doors to critical assistance that made the event outstanding.
Oyowe also expressed gratitude to the Delta State Government, particularly the Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, who was represented at the event by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu. He further acknowledged the support of the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon.
He commended Comrade Nkem Nweake, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, for representing the Speaker, as well as several institutions and individuals including Hon. Solomon Ighrakpata, Chairman of the Delta State Internal Revenue Service; NNPC Nigeria Gas Infrastructure Company Limited; Delta Trust Mortgage Limited; Hon. Vincent Oyibode, Chairman of Udu Local Government Council; Hon. Dagidi Andaye, Chairman of Bomadi Local Government Council; Chief Askia Ogieh; and Chief Fred Majemite, among others.
The NUJ chairman also lauded the Press Week Organising Committee, led by Comrade Pere Botu, Chairman of DBS Asaba Chapel, describing the team as committed and capacity-driven. He equally appreciated members of the State Working Committee (SWC) for providing a conducive environment for the committee to succeed.
Oyowe acknowledged the national leadership of the NUJ, thanking the President, Comrade Alhasan Yahya, who was represented by the Vice President, Zone F (South-South), Comrade Opaka Dokubo. He also expressed appreciation to the Functioning Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Mr. Harrod Ojji, and the Director and Vice President of NAWOJ Zone F, Mrs. Stella Macaulay, for their understanding and support.
According to him, independent observers and stakeholders have described the 2025 Press Week as one of the best ever held in Delta State.
Responding to concerns raised by some individuals regarding the timing of the organising committee’s report, Oyowe urged patience and constructive engagement, stressing that the event ended less than a month ago and that due process must be allowed to run its course.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the NUJ Delta State Council to transparency, accountability and institutional integrity, while cautioning against turning administrative procedures into sources of division.
“The NUJ is larger than any individual. Personal animosity has never built institutions; unity of purpose has,” he stated.
Oyowe called on members to consolidate on the gains of the Press Week, strengthen professional bonds and work collectively towards a stronger and more united NUJ Delta State Council.
He concluded by once again appreciating Asiwaju Sola Adebayo for his continued generosity and support, praying for God’s blessings upon him and his family.
“Ultimately, sustainable progress is achieved not by pulling others down, but by working together to build the institution we all cherish,” Oyowe said.
