NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel Ends Press Week with Call for Ethical Journalism, National Unity

By Adebola Isimijola, Lagos

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Correspondents’ Chapel, Lagos State Council, has concluded its 2026 Press Week with a thanksgiving service and a renewed call on journalists to uphold ethical standards, promote national unity and contribute to nation-building through responsible reporting.

The thanksgiving service, which marked the grand finale of the week-long activities, was held at Divine Mount Zion Church of God, Iyana-Ogudu, Lagos, where journalists, media professionals, church leaders and guests gathered to appreciate God for His faithfulness and seek divine guidance for the journalism profession.

According to a statement signed by the Secretary of the Planning Committee of the 2026 Press Week, Comrade Titilayo Ilebani, the event featured messages urging media practitioners to remain steadfast, professional and committed to truth in the discharge of their responsibilities.

Delivering a sermon titled “Steady the Storm,” Pastor Victor Ekpe encouraged journalists and Christians to remain resolute despite life’s challenges, drawing lessons from the biblical account of Jesus calming the storm.

He noted that storms were inevitable but often part of God’s process of preparing individuals for greater assignments.

The cleric urged journalists not to be discouraged by professional or personal difficulties but to remain focused, courageous and faithful.

According to him, “Resilience, integrity and trust in God are essential qualities for success.”

Also speaking, the General Overseer of Divine Mount Zion Church of God, Bishop Francis Obukpo, charged journalists to uphold the highest standards of professionalism by reporting responsibly and avoiding stories capable of inflaming tensions.

He observed that Nigeria was passing through challenging times and appealed to media practitioners to use their platforms to promote peace, truth and national unity.

The bishop stressed that journalists should recognise the enormous influence of the media and ensure that their reports contribute positively to nation-building rather than deepen divisions.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, Abraham Akpabio, appreciated members, invited guests and the church for their support throughout the Press Week.

Akpabio said the thanksgiving service underscored the chapel’s commitment to placing God at the centre of its activities while reaffirming members’ dedication to ethical journalism, accountability and service to society.

The statement noted that the 2026 Press Week was held under the theme, “Journalism and Nation Building: Promoting Accountability and Good Governance,” highlighting the media’s critical role in strengthening democracy, promoting transparency and fostering sustainable national development.

It added that the Correspondents’ Chapel reaffirmed its commitment to responsible journalism and pledged to continue upholding the ethics of the profession while serving the public interest.