COVID-19: Union warns journalists, suspends States/Chapels’ Meetings Nationwide

Following continuous spreading of Coronavirus pandemic in the country, the National Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has directed that Congresses/meeting at State and Chapel levels of the Union be suspended till further notice.

In a Press Statement, the National Secretary of NUJ, Shuaibu Usman Leman, the Union said with the present situation, it has therefore become imperative that the union equally takes steps to safeguard teeming members across the 37 Councils nationwide.

“The Coronavirus pandemic has continued to spread despite efforts by governments at different levels to contain it.

“Already about eight cases have been confirmed while several unconfirmed cases are still springing up across states,” the Union said.

“All large gatherings be also suspended, while journalists ensure they maintain social distancing and high personal hygiene within this period.

NUJ enjoined members to comply with directives by the Federal Ministry of Health, National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and other relevant government agencies.

FULL TEXT OF THE NUJ MEDIA RELEASE

The Coronavirus pandemic has continued to spread despite efforts by governments at different levels to contain it.

Already about eight cases have been confirmed while several unconfirmed cases are still springing up across states.

According to latest reports, about 226,470 cases have been reported globally, with about 10,000 deaths.

With the present situation, it has therefore become imperative that the union equally takes steps to safeguard our teeming members across the 37 Councils.

In view of the above, the National Secretariat hereby directs that Congresses at State and Chapel levels be suspended till further notice.

All large gatherings be also suspended, while journalists ensure they maintain social distancing and high personal hygiene within this period.

We also enjoin our members to comply with directives by the Federal Ministry of Health, National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and other relevant government agencies.

Shuaibu Usman Leman

Walin Shadalafiya

National Secretary, NUJ

March 20, 2020.