By Nneka Ibe
The Enugu State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has announced plans to induct former Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Lawrence Ugwuanyi, into its prestigious Hall of Fame in recognition of his remarkable and unmatched contributions to journalism development during his eight-year administration.
In a statement signed by the Council Chairman, Comrade Obinna Ogbuka, the induction ceremony will hold on December 4, 2025, at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, as part of activities marking the 2025 NUJ Press Week.
This year’s Press Week is themed “National Unity and Good Governance: The Role of the Media.”
According to the statement, the keynote address will be delivered by the President of the Senate, Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio, while former Abia State Governor and Senator representing Abia North, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, will chair the event.
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Benjamin Okezie Kalu, is billed to attend as Special Guest of Honour, with the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, serving as Chief Host.
The NUJ explained that Ugwuanyi’s selection followed an extensive review of his contributions to media growth across the state. During his tenure from 2015 to 2023, the former governor implemented several landmark interventions that significantly strengthened media practice and enhanced the welfare of journalists.
Chief among these was the rehabilitation and modernization of the NUJ Press Centre in Enugu—an upgrade the Union described as the most substantial financial investment in NUJ infrastructure in the history of the state. His administration also donated a new bus to the Correspondents’ Chapel, sponsored journalists on pilgrimage to Jerusalem, and supported various capacity-building programmes.
Beyond the state capital, Ugwuanyi expanded media infrastructure by constructing a new, fully equipped Press Centre in Nsukka, ensuring that journalists outside Enugu metropolis had access to a modern and conducive work environment. The NUJ noted that this decentralization reflected his belief that all journalists, regardless of location, deserve dignity and professional comfort.
The Council further commended Ugwuanyi’s humility, openness, and consistent respect for the media, which helped foster a cordial and productive relationship between journalists and government during his administration.
“Throughout his tenure, Rt. Hon. Ugwuanyi demonstrated a deep appreciation of the press as a vital pillar of democracy,” the statement read.
“For his historic infrastructural support, steadfast commitment to press freedom and welfare, and a legacy of empowerment that continues to uplift the journalism community, the Enugu State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists hereby inducts him into its Hall of Fame on this 4th day of December 2025.”
The NUJ added that several other distinguished Nigerians will also be honoured during the Press Week, which provides journalists the opportunity to evaluate leadership performance and review the Union’s activities over the year.
The Council invited the public, media professionals, and stakeholders to the event.
