By Daniel Dafe
The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, has inaugurated a new chapel in Delta State, Oasis Magazine Chapel.
The brief ceremony took place at the DELSU Staff Club, Site 1, Abraka on Friday.
Speaking during the event, Chairman, Delta NUJ, Comrade Churchill Oyovwe, said: “It is with immense pleasure and a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today on this momentous occasion. Today marks a significant milestone in the history of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Delta State Council, as we officially recognize and celebrate the approval of the Oasis Magazine Chapel by our esteemed national secretariat.”
According to him, “the establishment of the Oasis Magazine Chapel is not just a testament to the growth and dynamism of journalism in Delta State, but also a reflection of our collective commitment to upholding the highest standards of journalistic integrity, professionalism, and ethical reporting,” adding: “It is a beacon of hope and a symbol of our unwavering dedication to the principles of truth, accountability, and the public good.”
He continued: “As we gather here today, we are reminded of the critical role that journalism plays in our society. In an era where information is both a powerful tool and a potential weapon, the responsibility that rests on our shoulders as journalists is immense. We are the watchdogs of democracy, the voice of the voiceless, and the defenders of truth. The establishment of the Oasis Magazine Chapel is a reaffirmation of our pledge to these noble ideals.”
While commending Oasis Magazine Chapel for their perseverance, dedication and hard work that have culminated in this remarkable achievement, he said: “Your efforts have not gone unnoticed, and today, we celebrate your success and the bright future that lies ahead.”
Speaking further, Oyowe, said: “In line with our commitment to ensuring a smooth and effective transition, a caretaker committee will be set up to midwife the executive of the chapel. This committee will be tasked with the responsibility of laying a solid foundation for the chapel, ensuring that it operates by the guidelines and principles of the NUJ. I have full confidence in the abilities of the members of this committee to steer the chapel toward a path of excellence and distinction.
“As we embark on this new journey, I urge all members of the Oasis Magazine Chapel to remain steadfast in their commitment to the core values of our profession. Let us continue to strive for accuracy, fairness, and impartiality in our reporting. Let us be guided by the principles of ethical journalism and remain vigilant in our duty to serve the public interest.”
Furthermore, he appreciated the national secretariat for their unwavering support and for granting the approval of the Oasis Magazine Chapel.
“Together, let us continue to work towards a brighter and more prosperous future for journalism in Delta State and beyond. Let us uphold the legacy of excellence that the NUJ represents and remain committed to the pursuit of truth and justice,” he said.
Meanwhile, in his remarks, Secretary of the union in the state, Comrade Victor Sorokwu, described the event as “a very historic, remarkable milestone not just in NUJ Delta Council but in the life of the new administration.”
In his words, “this will be the first chapel that will be created in the past fifteen years outside Asaba, if not twenty years outside of Asaba.”
He humorously added: “If e dey easy, some of us for don create chapel finish.”
Adding that this is “a bold and courageous disposition of the administration led by Comrade Churchill to undertake this development and expansionist policy of NUJ Delta State Council.”
“We use to be sixteen. Today the council will become eighteen chapels. That is what we have come to do today so for us it is very important, it is a milestone, It is historic and very remarkable.
Speaking on behalf of the caretaker committee, Daniel Umukoro, said with the chapel coming on board, history has been made in the university town and the Delta Central senatorial district, being the first chapel that is an offshoot of a media house in the area.
He said that since the news of the chapel got to town, many graduates of Mass Communication have since indicated interest to work with Oasis Magazine and also be part of the NUJ.
He continued: “This chapel will revolutionise journalism in the area and beyond. We already have the backing of several stakeholders in the area and others will be visited soon to seek their support and backing.
While thanking God for making the project come to reality, he applauded the Vice-Chancellor of Delta State University, DELSU, Abraka, Professor Andy Egwunyenga, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Festus Ahon and the immediate past Chairman of Ethiope East Local Government Area, Hon. (Pharm.) Victor Ofobrukueta for their support while Oasis Magazine sought approval for the new chapel.
“We will not let those looking up to us and those that believe in Oasis Magazine down,” he said.
Speaking further, he said Oasis Magazine has been doing its bit in contributing to the field of journalism and nation building, but added that with this chapel coming to light, another feather has been added to the cap of Oasis Magazine, saying this will motivate the team to do even more and set the pace for others to follow.
“It’s a great day for the media business and the practice of journalism,” he averred.
Also present during the occasion was the Auditor, Delta NUJ, Celestine Afokobah.
Members of the new chapel that graced the event include Daniel Umukoro, Chairman, Caretaker Committee, Felix Okotie, Secretary, Caretaker Committee, Joy Enamuotor, Member, Caretaker Committee, Ambrose Ologide, Vivian Erivwode, Franklin Ogude, Endurance Akpomiemie and Oseji Rufus.
The inaugurations of Oasis Magazine and Fresh Angle chapels bring the total number of chapels in the state to 18.
