Content creators are not Journalists- Adamawa NUJ

The Adamawa State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists has said content creators working as aides to politicians do not qualify as professional journalists, warning of a growing pattern of misrepresentation across the state.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the union said individuals holding titles such as special assistant on content creation lack the training and certification required to be recognised as journalists.

It criticised the practice of such aides appearing at events with microphones and tripods while presenting themselves as members of the press, stressing that journalism demands formal training, adherence to ethical standards and affiliation with recognised professional bodies.

The union also raised concern over what it described as the unchecked use of social media platforms, particularly Facebook, as informal broadcast channels, saying the trend has blurred the line between trained journalists and content creators.

According to the statement, the development risks weakening the integrity of the profession and could erode public confidence in credible media organisations.

The NUJ urged politicians and political actors to engage properly with the union on media related activities, underlining the need for coordination.

“The leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Adamawa State Council, wishes to draw the attention of politicians and other political actors to the need for proper engagement with the union on media related activities,” the statement said.

It added that the council would not accept responsibility for misinformation or misrepresentation arising from political events where it was neither informed nor consulted, particularly where press conferences are held outside the NUJ secretariat without its knowledge.

While acknowledging that politicians are free to invite journalists to cover their activities, the union said it could not be held liable for inaccurate or misleading reports from such engagements.

It said the clarification had become necessary amid a rising trend of individuals posing as journalists at political events.

The NUJ Adamawa State Council reiterated its commitment to upholding professional ethics, standards and the principles of balanced reporting, as outlined in its constitution, and affirmed its role as a watchdog of society.