In a historic virtual ceremony held on August 30, 2024, the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) inaugurated its newly elected National Executive Committee (Exco). The event marked a significant milestone in the organization’s history, as a new leadership team took the reins, pledging to uphold the values and principles of the NGIJ.

The ceremony, which commenced at 12:12 pm, was conducted by Barr. Ahmed Kehinde Lambe, Principal Partner of Lambe & Co., an Abuja-based law firm and Notary Public. The newly elected Exco members took the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Office, committing to fearless reporting, holding power to account, and championing the public interest.

In his inauguration address, the newly elected NGIJ President, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, expressed his humility and honor in leading the organization. “We are committed to fostering a culture of fearless reporting, holding power to account, and championing the public interest in all our endeavors,” he said. Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Aliagan expressed the Exco’s dedication to advancing investigative journalism in Nigeria.

The newly sworn-in Exco members pledged to serve with integrity, transparency, and dedication, ensuring that members’ voices are heard and their interests represented. They committed to upholding the organization’s constitution and bylaws and working collaboratively to achieve the Guild’s goals and objectives.

The ceremony was attended by a diverse audience, including NGIJ members, media professionals, and industry stakeholders, who witnessed the passing of the torch to the new leadership team.

The new Executive members of NGIJ include:

• Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, President
• Oyewale Oyelola, Vice President (Administration and Strategic Communications)
• Comrade James Ezema, Vice President 2 (Investigation)
• Mr. Rowland Olonishuwa, National Secretary
• Mr. Gbenga Shaba, Treasurer
• Malam Abdullahi Gulloma, Public Relations Officer
• Ikem Ifeoma, Auditor

The offices of the Registrar and Financial Secretary remain vacant and will be filled by bye-election in the shortest possible time.

As the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists enters this new era, members, the media landscape, and the public can look forward to a renewed spirit of dedication, innovation, and excellence in the pursuit of investigative journalism in Nigeria.