Nigeria launches insurance cover for journalists

Sambo said the inauguration of the insurance scheme of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) had become imperative in view of the occupational hazards of journalism profession in the country. “Press freedom and freedom of speech are fundamental freedoms that must be guarded. Therefore, attacks on journalists and media equipment are crime against humanity and must […]

Sambo said the inauguration of the insurance scheme of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) had become imperative in view of the occupational hazards of journalism profession in the country.

“Press freedom and freedom of speech are fundamental freedoms that must be guarded. Therefore, attacks on journalists and media equipment are crime against humanity and must not be condoned.

“Such attacks from all intents and purposes, pose serious threats to fundamental freedoms,” the Vice President declared.

According to Sambo, the Federal Government is committed to ensuring the safety of journalists and the respect for freedom of expression and press freedom which are of paramount importance to democratic governance.

The Vice President however, appealed to all employers of journalists in the country, especially the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria and the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria to support the scheme to enable all journalists benefit.

He asked journalists to maintain the highest standard of professional ethics and provide truthful, fair, objective and comprehensive account of events and issues to the citizenry.

Sambo reassured the nation and the international community that the Federal Government was committed to conducting free and fair elections in 2011.

NUJ President Muhammed Garba explained that the scheme would provide death benefit for each registered member, while no medical examination is required.

According to him, the scheme accommodates a registered member up to the age of 65 and provides compensation to a named beneficiary.