BY JULIET EKWENUGO
Abuja
The League of Anambra Journalists in Abuja (LAJA) has held its first meeting of the year in the Federal Capital Territory, with members urged to strengthen unity, professionalism and commitment to the ideals of journalism.
The meeting, presided over by the association’s president, Ikenna Okonkwo, also emphasised the need for members to actively promote the image of Anambra State while upholding professional ethics in the media.
Speaking during the meeting, Okonkwo called on members to take the activities of the association more seriously in the new year by being punctual at meetings, strengthening professional relationships and supporting programmes of the organisation.
He noted that the league had outlined several activities aimed at improving professional engagement and strengthening the bond among members.
“We must take this organisation seriously this year. Let us be punctual to meetings, strengthen our bond as colleagues and work together to build a stronger League of Anambra Journalists in Abuja,” he said.
Also speaking, a former president of the Anambra State Towns People Association (ASTPA) and former president of Ohanaeze Ndigbo FCT chapter, Chief Emeka Mbagha, commended members of the association for coming together under a common professional platform.
According to him, journalists of Anambra origin working in Abuja occupy strategic positions in shaping narratives about the state and the Igbo nation.
“It is very important that you are coming together as people of the same profession. Being in Abuja and of Anambra extraction means you represent the eyes, the ears, the nose and the voice of Anambra people,” he said.
Mbagha stressed that the way journalists report issues concerning Anambra State could influence public perception about the state and its people across the country.
He also recalled the historic role played by journalism in Nigeria’s struggle for independence, noting that the West African Pilot, founded by Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, was instrumental in mobilising Nigerians against colonial rule.
The former ASTPA president further encouraged members to remain connected with their communities by actively participating in their various town unions and the activities of the Anambra State Towns People Association.
Also addressing the gathering, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) youth leader and the party’s chairmanship candidate for Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Dr Eze Onyebuchi Chukwu, appreciated members of the league for their support and encouragement over the years.
He described Anambra people as historically industrious and forward looking, noting that the state had consistently excelled in education, commerce and professional development.
However, Chukwu expressed concern over growing divisions within the Igbo nation and urged journalists to use their platforms to promote unity and positive representation of the people.
“You should extend your journalism beyond Anambra and engage leaders across Igboland. Ask questions about unity and use your platforms to correct divisive narratives,” he said.
In his remarks, a former secretary of the Anambra State Towns People Association, Sir Patrick Okwuba, emphasised the importance of unity, cooperation and mutual support among Anambra people.
According to him, gatherings such as the LAJA meeting provide opportunities for members to strengthen relationships and promote collective development.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for members to review activities of the past year and discuss strategies for strengthening the organisation.
Participants expressed optimism that the league would continue to grow as a platform for professional networking, mentorship and the promotion of Anambra State within Nigeria’s media space.
The League of Anambra Journalists in Abuja is an association of media professionals of Anambra origin working in the Federal Capital Territory. The group aims to promote professional excellence, unity among members and the positive image of Anambra State.
