Governor Alex Otti Backs Abia NUJ Secretariat, Offers Mobility Support, Rejects Monthly Funding Request

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has assured members of the Abia State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) of his administration’s full support for the completion of the Union’s permanent secretariat and the provision of mobility assistance to enhance their operations.

However, he firmly declined the Union’s request for a regular financial subvention, citing concerns over preserving the independence of the media.

Governor Otti made the commitment on Thursday when he received a delegation from the NUJ, led by its Chairman, Comrade Chidi Asonye, at his office in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. The meeting focused on key challenges faced by the Union, including the absence of a permanent secretariat, poor mobility, and the need for sustainable funding for the Union’s operations.

During the visit, Comrade Chidi Asonye thanked Governor Otti for the opportunity to discuss the Union’s concerns directly with him. He appreciated the governor’s efforts in transforming the state and highlighted the growing challenges facing the NUJ. One of the main issues raised by Asonye was the lack of a permanent secretariat for the Union.

He explained that the current rented accommodation for the NUJ in Abia State was no longer suitable for the Union’s activities and that a permanent structure was crucial for the Union’s identity and dignity.

The NUJ Chairman emphasized that the secretariat was not just a building but a symbol of professionalism and integrity for the media body. He appealed for the state government’s urgent intervention in completing and upgrading the facility to meet the Union’s growing needs.

In addition, Asonye pointed out the need for a functional vehicle to aid in the coverage of government activities, community engagement, and other critical events. He stressed that journalism was not a desk-bound profession and that having proper mobility was essential to ensure effective and timely reporting.

In his response, Governor Otti expressed his appreciation for the work being done by the NUJ in the state and acknowledged the vital role journalists play in shaping public opinion and contributing to good governance. The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening institutions that are essential to good governance, including the media, which serves as the watchdog of society.

Otti promised that his government would provide support to the Union to ensure the completion of its permanent secretariat and would also assist with mobility by providing a vehicle for the NUJ’s operations. He assured the delegation that the state government was fully committed to helping the Union advance its objectives.

However, the Governor made it clear that he could not approve the Union’s request for regular financial subvention. He explained that granting financial assistance on a continuous basis could compromise the Union’s independence and affect its ability to carry out its watchdog role effectively.

Otti emphasized the importance of maintaining journalistic objectivity and integrity, arguing that when a government begins funding an organization regularly, it risks influencing the organization’s editorial stance, which could ultimately undermine its ability to operate freely.

“I want you to remain independent,” Governor Otti stated. “Your independence is vital. It is the only way the society can get better. When government starts funneling money to you every month, before you know it, you become an arm of government, and you lose your voice. I don’t think that is the right way to go. We must ensure that your voice remains independent.”

The governor also underscored the importance of finding alternative sources of funding, encouraging the Union to explore other sustainable funding strategies, such as partnerships and fundraising initiatives. “You must find a sustainable way of funding yourselves,” he said. “We are here to support you, but I do not agree that an organization that is not part of the government should be receiving regular subventions.”

Earlier, Comrade Asonye had commended Governor Otti for the visible progress made in the state, particularly in infrastructure, environmental sanitation, education, and youth empowerment. He noted that the governor’s administration had renewed public confidence and was redefining Abia’s narrative in positive ways.

Despite the challenges, Asonye reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to upholding the principles of truth, fairness, and professionalism. He expressed the NUJ’s willingness to support the governor’s vision for a new Abia State and emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and the media in order to achieve sustainable development.

In a broader context, an Ex-Officio member of the Union, Ezeogo Boniface Okoro, suggested that a well-developed secretariat could not only serve as a symbol of professionalism but also become a revenue-generating asset for the NUJ. He proposed that the state government explore flexible options to support the Union, such as creating a more collaborative framework between the media and the government.

Ezeogo Okoro also called for greater engagement between the government and the media, emphasizing that accurate reporting of government activities should be based on facts and performance, rather than political influence. He urged the governor to consider the positive impact that transparent media coverage could have on the state’s development.

In conclusion,Governor Otti concluded the meeting by reiterating his administration’s commitment to working with the media and ensuring the effective functioning of the NUJ. He praised journalists for their tireless efforts in holding the government accountable and ensuring that the voices of the people were heard.

“As the media, you have an important responsibility in ensuring that Abia State remains on the path of growth and development,” Governor Otti said. “I look forward to a continued partnership with the NUJ as we work together to make Abia a better place for everyone.”

The meeting ended on a positive note, with both the governor and the NUJ delegation expressing a shared commitment to building a transparent, accountable, and progressive Abia State.

Onyebuchi Juliet Nwabu
FIC Correspondent.
3rd April,2026.