NUJ declares 2024 Nigeria’s worst economic year

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has described 2024 as the most challenging economic year in the country’s history, lamenting its devastating impact on citizens and journalists alike.

In a statement titled “Year 2024: A Challenging Year but Cause for Optimism in 2025,” signed by National Secretary Achike Chude, the union decried the numerous hardships Nigerians endured throughout the year, including economic instability, insecurity, and a troubling rise in attacks on journalists by both state and non-state actors.

The NUJ reflected on a year marred by skyrocketing fuel prices, inflation, unemployment, and insecurity, which deepened the struggles of everyday Nigerians. The tragic deaths of over 100 citizens in stampedes for food items were described as a low point in Nigeria’s socio-economic history, underscoring the dire conditions many faced.

While acknowledging pockets of progress over the years, the union emphasized that 2024 stood out as a particularly grim chapter in the nation’s story.

“Insecurity, the phenomenal rise in petroleum prices, inflation, unsold inventories in factories, unemployment, and other economic negatives exacerbated social tensions in 2024,” the statement read.

The NUJ also highlighted the difficult working conditions journalists faced, citing numerous instances of harassment and attacks that threatened the profession’s integrity and freedom.

As the nation looks toward 2025, the NUJ called on political leaders to rise above mediocrity, prioritize effective governance, and implement policies addressing the root causes of the nation’s challenges.

“Hope and optimism, while vital, are not enough to build a nation,” the union stressed, urging leaders to harness the remaining hope among Nigerians to drive meaningful development.

The statement concluded with a plea for the country’s elites to embrace accountability and focus on the welfare of citizens, ensuring that 2025 ushers in a brighter and more stable future for all.