Pwaspo Re-elected NUJ Plateau Chairman, Ramnap Hails Peaceful Poll
By Comfort Pius, Jos
The Plateau State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has re-elected Ayuku Pwaspo as its chairman for another term, following a peaceful election which the state government described as a demonstration of professionalism and democratic values.
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Pam Musa was elected Vice Chairman alongside Pwaspo and other members of the new executive council.
Reacting to the election on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, commended NUJ members for their maturity, professionalism and commitment to responsible journalism.
Ramnap said the peaceful conduct of the election reflected the union’s commitment to democratic principles, while acknowledging the cordial relationship between the NUJ and the state government.
She said journalists had continued to play an important role in informing the public, shaping narratives and contributing to the development of the state, adding that the government valued its partnership with the media.
In her acceptance speech, Pwaspo thanked delegates, members, supporters and stakeholders for renewing their confidence in her leadership, describing the mandate as a greater responsibility to serve and protect the interests and welfare of journalists.
She pledged to consolidate the achievements of her first tenure, with emphasis on journalists’ welfare, professional development, digital skills and emerging technologies, press freedom, ethical journalism and the strengthening of NUJ chapels.
Pwaspo also promised transparency and accountability in the management of the council, while sustaining collaboration with government agencies, traditional institutions, security agencies, media organisations and other stakeholders.
The re-elected chairman, who became the first female chairman of the Plateau State NUJ Council, said her renewed mandate was a call to greater service and collective responsibility.
Earlier, in her valedictory remarks marking the end of her first three-year tenure, Pwaspo described her administration as a period of service, sacrifice, challenges and achievements.
She said the administration strengthened the relationship between the union, government and other stakeholders, while promoting unity and peaceful coexistence through programmes including the NUJ Christmas Carol, Ramadan Lectures and Cultural Day.
Pwaspo also disclosed that the council worked towards financial sustainability through income-generating assets at the NUJ Press Centre, while strengthening the union’s role in issues of governance, peace, security and development.
She paid tribute to members and officials who died during her tenure, saying the council lost 10 colleagues during the period.
The Grand Patron of the Pwaspo NUJ Council and Emir of Wase, Alhaji Muhammad Haruna, commended the outgoing leadership for what he described as an excellent performance and urged the new executive to build on its achievements.
The traditional ruler also praised journalists in the state for improved professionalism and responsible reporting, urging them to continue reporting facts without allowing political, religious or ethnic considerations to influence their work.
The election was conducted under the supervision of members of the NUJ National Executive Council from Zone D.
