By Tina Amanda
Paul Bazia has been elected as the new Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Rivers State Council following the conclusion of the Rivers State NUJ election held on Monday, March 17, 2025.
Bazia, from the Rivers State Ministry of Information, secured victory with 144 votes, defeating his opponent, Ogboka Umeda, who polled 140 votes. The election took place at the Ernest Ikoli Press Centre in Port Harcourt.
Journalists from both private and government media organizations participated in the election, casting their votes to select the new union executives.
Other newly elected executives include:
- Kelvin Nengia –Vice Chairman
- Dr. Ijeoma Tubosia – Secretary
- Daba Benebo – Treasurer
- Fubara Miebaka – Financial Secretary
- Ominini Wokoma – Auditor
Announcing the results, NUJ Zonal Vice President for the South-South, Opaka Dokubo, described the election outcome as a reflection of the collective decision of the union.
Dokubo urged the newly elected executives to use their positions to advance the NUJ Rivers State Council while ensuring peace, unity, and harmony among members.
He also emphasized the need to prioritize the welfare of journalists in the state.
In his acceptance speech, Paul Bazia assured members of his commitment to fostering unity and inclusivity within the union.
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He emphasized that NUJ is not a political party where some members are sidelined, but rather a professional body that should operate as one united family. He urged all members to support and collaborate with his administration to effectively steer the affairs of the state council.
Bazia also pledged to revamp the NUJ secretariat, promising a facelift that will enhance its functionality and serve as a conducive environment for journalists in the state.
