The Group Managing Editor of Time Nigeria Magazine, TimeNigeria Online and The ArtDaily Nigeria, Mallam AbdulRahman Aliagan has emerged the new President of Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ).
Aliagan from the Abuja Chapter of the Guild scored 56.41 percent of the total votes cast by delegates to defeat Bolaji Israel from the Lagos Chapter who polled 43.59 percent during the virtual election held on Saturday, August 3, 2024.
Other elected executive members include Oyewale Oyelola (Vice President 1-Administration & Communications Strategy), Comrade James Ezema (Vice President 2 -Investigations), Rowland Shuwa (General Secretary), Gbenga Shaba (Treasurer), Ifeoma Ikem (Auditor) and Abdullahi Gulloma (Public Relations Officer).
The Chairman of NGIJ National Electoral Committee, Olalekan Oladigbo while declaring Aliagan led Executive winner charged them to be magnanimity in victory and bring every member together for the progress of the Guild.
The new executive will serve for two years.
Addressing the audience after his victory, Aliagan expressed his immense gratitude for the trust and confidence placed in him by his fellow NGIJ members.
The Newly Elected President of NGIJ, AbdulRahman Aliagan.
“I am both humbled and inspired by this honor, and I promise to dedicate every ounce of my energy and passion to leading our Guild to new heights,” he said.
Aliagan, an Abuja-based Journalist who previously served as the pioneer General Secretary of the Guild, outlined his vision for the NGIJ, which includes forging new partnerships, strengthening ties with national and international organizations, and elevating the Guild to unprecedented heights.
“Together, we will promote democracy, foster good governance, and drive development not just in Nigeria, but across the African continent,” he declared.
The new President also emphasized the importance of unity within the Guild, stating, “We may have had spirited debates and different perspectives during the campaign, but now is the time for us to come together as one, indivisible Guild. Our diversity is our strength, and I pledge to work tirelessly to harness the unique talents and experiences that each of you bring to the table.”
Aliagan’s election coincides with his birthday, making it a “double celebration” for the NGIJ and the new President. “I am truly humbled and overjoyed to share this moment with all of you, my cherished colleagues and friends,” he said, as he raised a toast to the Guild and the promise of a better Nigeria.
He hails from Ilorin, in Ilorin West Local Government area of Kwara State.
