The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Lagos Chapel, is set to host an exciting and memorable Press Week in 2024.
In a statement released by Mrs. Vivian Ihechu, Chairperson of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), it was announced that the event will begin with a fitness walk on Monday, September 23.
Free diabetes screenings will be available at Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., conducted by the medical team from Lions Club International District 404B4.
Following this, there will be health talks and medical tests facilitated by the Lagos State Sports Commission.
The health walk will commence at 10:00 a.m. from the stadium to the NAN premises at the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos.
Ihechu emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that journalists often neglect their health due to the demanding nature of their work.
“Participants are encouraged to refrain from eating before the screening to ensure accurate results,” she added.
To ensure safety during the walk, the committee has engaged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), and other security agencies.
A musical band will entertain participants from the starting point to the finish line.
Cultural Day is scheduled for Wednesday, September 25, showcasing Nigeria’s diverse cultures and cuisines.
A Public Lecture/Symposium will take place on Thursday, September 26, at the NAN Multi-purpose Media Centre at 10:00 a.m.
The keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
The theme of the lecture is “The Role of Journalism in Addressing the Impact, Opportunities, and Challenges of Modern Technology on Youths.”
“This year’s lecture is particularly relevant, focusing on the global issues surrounding technology and its effects on young Nigerians,” Ihechu noted.
She said that students from secondary schools and the Mass Communications Department of YABATECH are invited to participate.
Notable guests, including Dr. Segun Musa, Chief Consultant at Global Transport Policy, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, Police Public Relations Officer in Lagos State, and Malam Ali Muhammed Ali, Managing Director of NAN, will contribute to the discussions.
His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulfatai Aremu Aromire Oyeyinka (Oyekbemi II), the Ojora of Ijora Kingdom, Lagos State, will serve as the Special Guest of Honour.
The week will conclude with a visit to an orphanage and an old people’s home on Friday, September 27.
Ihechu emphasised the vital role of media in addressing societal issues and reaffirmed the NUJ NAN Chapel’s commitment to promoting a vibrant and independent press.
“As we observe this Press Week, we stand in solidarity with journalists who courageously pursue the truth, and we advocate for developmental journalism as opposed to sensationalism.
“We believe access to accurate information is essential for an informed citizenry and a healthy democracy,” she concluded.
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