Journalists and media stakeholders from across the B-Zone (South-West) gathered at the Ilaji Hotels & Sports Resorts in Akanran, Ibadan, for a three-day 2026 NUJ/NAWOJ Retreat.
Held under the theme “Stronger Together: Collaboration, Capacity & Sustainability for the Future of Journalism,” the event successfully combined strategic industry brainstorming with physical rejuvenation.
The event was officially declared opened by the Deputy National President of the NUJ, Dr. Abimbola Oyetunde, on behalf of the NUJ President Comrade AlHassan Yahaya. Also delivering a visionary address on behalf of the National President, she spoke extensively about programs executed by the National NUJ since the current Exco took office, adding that more programs were in the offing.
The leader stressed unity, professionalism, and sustainability, and thanked the NUJ B-Zone for its unfailing cooperation.
The VP B-Zone NUJ Mrs Aderonke Samo who was unavoidably absent, called-in her goodwill to the house and expressed support for every submission at the retreat.
Mrs. Adeola Adekunle highlighted the mentorship that leaders have continued to provide to women in the profession.
Former President of NAWOJ, Yeye Ifeyinwa Omowole appreciated B-Zone Councils for its unity and togetherness in decision-making.
The serene and expansive landscapes of Ilaji Hotels & Sports Resort were transformed as the journalists mingled.
Spanning three transformative days, the retreat is anchored on a powerful and timely theme: “Stronger Together: Collaboration, Capacity & Sustainability for the future of journalism.” It is proving to be a masterful blend of rigorous strategic brainstorming, professional networking, and a much-needed physical and mental rejuvenation.
The prestigious event is driven by a powerful coalition of media leaders.
Committed to steering the industry through evolving modern challenges, the gathering had stakeholders in B-Zone: Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti and Lagos of NUJ and NAWOJ in attendance.
Together, the leadership underscored the core pillars that must define the Union; to remain united, professional, informed, and impactful.
Dressed in a vibrant matching Ankara print uniform, the delegates proudly showcased their shared identity, emphasizing that solidarity is the first step toward industry resilience.
The atmosphere earlier on the second morning transformed into one of pure joy, laughter, and camaraderie as the media practitioners engaged in team-building exercises, light-hearted sporting activities, and networking under the open sky on the beautifully lawned Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resorts.
The resort’s sporting facilities provided the perfect backdrop for the delegates to unwind, shed the daily stress of the newsroom, and build deeper personal bonds with colleagues from across the B-Zone.
Chairpersons from the B-Zone NAWOJ chapters presented their scorecard and activity reports.
Reactions, question and submissions then followed.