The emergence of Akeem Abas as Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, marked the beginning of a new era. This period is defined by vision, inclusiveness, and purposeful leadership. Members and stakeholders spoke with one voice during the election. They entrusted Abas with the responsibility to pilot the affairs of the union alongside a team of committed executives.
Popularly known as ALAKIME, Abas is a Bloomberg scholar and a seasoned editor with the News Agency of Nigeria. He brings a wealth of professional experience and global exposure to the office. From the moment he was inaugurated, Abas demonstrated readiness for leadership. He hit the ground running with remarkable energy and a clear sense of direction.
Akeem Abas: Immediate Interventions and Welfare
His administration immediately reflected a deep commitment to fulfilling campaign promises. One of his earliest wins was the comprehensive cleanup of the NUJ Press Centre. This restored order and dignity to the environment.
At his first Congress on 10 January 2026, the Chairman took a bold step. He reinstated all deregistered chapels affected during the election period. This move restored the number of chapels to eighteen and reinforced unity within the union.
Staff and Member Wellbeing
To enhance the lives of staff at the Press Centre, Akeem Abas approved a salary increase. The least-paid staff now earn a minimum of N70,000. Beyond wages, the administration prioritised morale through thoughtful gestures. These include:
- Multimillion-naira rice packages distributed to members.
- Ramadan packages, including rice and milk, to support members during the fast.
- Customised graphic designs to celebrate members on their birthdays.
Infrastructural Landmarks and Transparency
Infrastructure development has received significant attention under his leadership. The repair of the 40KVA generator donated by Engr. Femi Babalola (Jogor) restored stable power to the Centre. Complementing this is the ongoing construction of a permanent generator house.
In a move for transparency, Abas terminated the contract on the NUJ Guest House. He constituted a five-man Press Centre Management Committee to oversee operations. Furthermore, he engaged the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) to end the burden of estimated billing. This resulted in the approval of seven prepaid meters for the facility.
Future-Proofing Journalism through Training
Capacity building remains a cornerstone of the “ALAKIME” philosophy. His ambitious promise to train 300 journalists within three years is already nearing completion.
About 250 journalists were trained within just two months.
The training series focused on artificial intelligence and life skills. These sessions were facilitated through strategic partnerships with the American Open University and Google Africa. Plans for further sessions in March and April are already concluded to ensure professional growth.
Strategic Partnerships and Assets of Akeem Abas
Akeem Abas also facilitated a partnership with Ajayi Crowther University. This allows 300-level and final-year students to gain field reporting experience in newsrooms. On the business side, he secured a lease agreement with Womai City for a five-star hotel. This project, under a Build-Operate-Transfer arrangement, will boost the council’s revenue.
As this administration marks its first 100 days, the impact is measurable. Akeem Abas has not only set a new standard for leadership within the NUJ Oyo State Council but has also repositioned the union for greater relevance. The foundation laid provides strong assurance of even greater accomplishments ahead.
