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  • NUJ FCT, Nizamiye Hospital provide free medical check-up to over 300 journalists

    NUJ FCT, Nizamiye Hospital provide free medical check-up to over 300 journalists

    The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, on Saturday partnered with Nizamiye Hospital to provide free health check-ups for over three hundred journalists in Abuja.

    More than 300 journalists took part in the outreach event, which took place at the NUJ FCT Secretariat in Utako, with a high prevalence of elevated blood pressure and sugar levels.

    This is just as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, praised both the NUJ FCT and Nizamiye Hospital for the thoughtful move to care for journalists’ health.

    Representing the CDS at the event, the Director of Medical Services, Surgeon Commodore Momoh Jimoh Salihu, said, “It is actually a laudable event and I want to say kudos to the NUJ FCT and Nizamiye Hospital for organising and conducting this medical outreach for journalists.

    “This effort will improve the well-being and productivity of journalists in Abuja and help them stay focused on their job.”

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    The NUJ FCT Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, thanked Nizamiye Hospital for bringing their team of specialists, including a general surgeon, internist, cardiologist, nephrologist, ophthalmologist, and general practitioners.

    She stressed how important it is to look after journalists’ health, saying, “We will always make sure our members are healthy. They go out to the field every time and most times they barely have time to check on themselves.”

    This outreach is part of NUJ FCT’s wider plan to raise health awareness and give free medical support to journalists. Comrade Ike also said the results of the check-ups would help guide their efforts to get health insurance for members.

    “We will always make sure our members are healthy. They go out to the field every time and most times they barely have time to go for medical check-ups.”

    “The NUJ FCT Council decided to take it as a point of duty to make sure that we have our bodies checked.”

    “It is our desire to make sure that we get health insurance for our members. The outcome of today’s outreach will better guide us.”

    “I am happy that members turned en masse for this outreach. For me, I am happy that the team of medical doctors from Nizamiye Hospital are here to check our members.”

    “This will not be the last. We will continue to do this. Thank you to Nizamiye Hospital for taking up this challenge.”

    She promised this wouldn’t be the last time, saying the union remains committed to looking after its members.

    “This initiative demonstrates the union’s commitment to supporting journalists’ well-being,” she added.

    Doctors from Nizamiye Hospital carried out several checks in areas such as heart health, bones and joints, eyes, and dental care.

    Mohammed Abubakar, the hospital’s Deputy Chief Operating Officer, earlier confirmed the hospital’s support for the event and other similar health programmes in the FCT.

    “Our aim was to conduct medical screening for journalists in the FCT. The aim of the medical outreach is to prevent diseases. We are known to give humanitarian aid and this, for us, is a partnership with the NUJ FCT.

    “The major disease that is prevalent so far is high blood pressure and sugar level, and for eye issues, we will go back to the hospital and revert to members who have serious medical eye issues for surgery where necessary,” he added.

    Speaking during the exercise, Deputy Medical Director of Nizamiye Hospital, Dr. Nurullo Sadokov, stated that the medical outreach was part of the hospital’s corporate social responsibility.

    He said, “I hope this screening will help journalists to identify and prevent diseases and sicknesses.”

    “From what we have seen so far, there are journalists with blood pressure and blood sugar problems. Our surgeon here has identified some journalists with hernia and haemorrhage.”

    “We are making plans for those patients to come to our hospital for proper treatment and management. We came here for a general screening.”

    “They may have a problem or not. After identifying the problems and diseases, we will then take another step, which is at the hospital level.”

    “Some patients may end at the diagnostic level while others may need further attention. At the end of the day, we will make a list and make recommendations to the NUJ,” he said.

    The NUJ FCT and Nizamiye Hospital hope this partnership will lead to better health and higher productivity among journalists in Abuja.

  • NUJ FCT, Nizamiye Hospital partner for free medical outreach, praise FG’s elimination of drug tariffs

    NUJ FCT, Nizamiye Hospital partner for free medical outreach, praise FG’s elimination of drug tariffs

    The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, is partnering with Nizamiye Hospital, a private medical facility in Abuja, to organize a free medical outreach in June as part of activities marking its upcoming Press Week.

    The initiative aims to promote public health awareness and provide free healthcare services to journalists within the Federal Capital Territory.

    During a recent courtesy visit to Nizamiye Hospital, the NUJ delegation, led by its Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, discussed areas of potential collaboration, particularly in health advocacy and community service.

    Nizamiye Hospital, represented by its Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Mohammed Abubakar, expressed the hospital’s readiness to support the Press Week and the planned series of medical outreaches for journalists.

    “We welcome this kind of partnership,” Abubakar said. “All we need is a formal letter outlining the outreach plan, and we will proceed together.”

    Abubakar urged the media to help curb the growing trend of medical tourism by highlighting the quality healthcare services available within Nigeria. He shared details of the hospital’s past outreach programs, which have benefitted thousands across several states including Nasarawa, Katsina, Bauchi, and Imo.

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    “In Keffi, we treated about 2,500 patients over two days. In Katsina, around 2,250; in Bauchi, approximately 2,700; and in Owerri, about 1,700. Just last week, we attended to about 800 people, including individuals from nearby communities who rushed to the venue.

    We had initially planned to attend to between 1,500 and 2,000 patients. We also left remaining medications at the local facility for continued use,” he explained.

    He noted that the outreach programs cover multiple specialties, including cardiology, orthopedics, pediatrics, gynecology, ophthalmology, and dentistry.

    According to him, these outreach efforts are part of the hospital’s corporate social responsibility to support the less privileged and promote general well-being.

    Abubakar also commended the Federal Government’s decision to eliminate import tariffs on pharmaceuticals, describing it as a significant policy step that would enhance access to essential medicines.

    “It’s not all about business but also about helping people,” he said. “For instance, we spend a lot on electricity and still retain our foreign medical professionals to ensure quality service.”

    He reiterated the need for the media to play a key role in addressing the issue of medical tourism by raising awareness of the quality healthcare services available within Nigeria.

    In her remarks, Comrade Grace Ike applauded Nizamiye Hospital’s commitment to quality healthcare delivery and its ongoing community engagement initiatives.

    She reaffirmed the union’s dedication to promoting local healthcare solutions and improving the welfare of its members through strategic partnerships.

    “We look forward to a stronger partnership beyond this medical outreach. For example, issues like supporting internally displaced persons (IDPs) in collaboration with state governments are not well publicized. Our platform can help amplify such causes nationwide, given that we represent all journalists in the FCT,” Ike said.

    She also noted that the NUJ FCT Council has its own news platform and website, which can be leveraged to further promote initiatives such as the medical outreach.

    “This collaboration is just the beginning of a broader partnership beyond the medical outreach,” she added.

    Both parties confirmed their commitment to working together, with the free medical outreach set to be a major highlight of the NUJ FCT Council’s Press Week.

    This partnership marks a significant step toward bridging media and medical advocacy in Nigeria.

  • AMMC partners NUJ FCT on infrastructural development 

    AMMC partners NUJ FCT on infrastructural development 

    The Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC) has expressed commitment to partner the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council on infrastructural development in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    This was disclosed when the NUJ FCT Chairperson, Ms Grace Ike, led her executive team on a courtesy visit to the AMMC Coordinator, Chief Felix Amechi Obuah, on Tuesday.

    Chief Obuah while welcoming  members of the NUJ FCT,  expressed his readiness to collaborate with the council having recognised the vital role the  media plays in informing the public on activities of AMMC  which is helping the agency to ensure full compliance with the FCT master plan.

    “I welcome you and your team to our corporate office today. I have listened to you and I just have to say that, I am indeed very happy to partner with the NUJ FCT. We need to partner together to be able to achieve our core and corporate mandate – and in partnering together, we support each other and grow together and educate the public, so as to attain infrastructural development in the FCT in line with the master plan of the nation’s capital city,” he said.

    While expressing his willingness to support the NUJ FCT Council, Chief Obuah explained that current financial constraints make it difficult to make any immediate commitment but hopes to accommodate the union’s needs in the next budget.

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    “Even though I am a bit handicapped to make any promises because of budgetary constraints, but in the subsequent budget, I assure you that whatever we can do to help your dream come true for NUJ and your members, the agency will do everything humanly possible to contribute their quota to the growth of the union in line with the FCT master plan 

    He also added, “You can write my office on what you feel we can do officially. I will also present it in the next budget and I will go to my superior, the Honourable Minister of FCT, and say these people visited me and came with a very solid, verified programme—how do we assist? Because whatever we are doing, with the media, the public would not know and be able to key into it. 

    He said the media  plays a very vital role in the growth and development of any organisation.”

    Dr Obuah used the occasion to congratulate the first female chairperson of the union after forty one years of its existence and prays for a successful tenure. 

    Earlier, Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Ms Ike, thanked Chief Obuah for receiving her team and commended the AMMC Coordinator for the effective management and coordination of municipal services as well as infrastructural development in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    She used the occasion to commend his support for workers welfare which earned him the employee’s advocate award of the year award  

    She said “ I must commend your leadership efforts in ensuring proper maintenance and sustainable management of the city’s infrastructure, utilities, and services” 

    She highlighted major infrastructural challenges currently facing the NUJ FCT Council and requested support to improve their facilities such as the completion of the Pentagon building, and a hall that cannot house more than 2, 000 journalists during her monthly congress. 

    She also made a strong case for the NUJ FCT “Journalists’ Village”, which would offer journalists affordable housing and a suitable environment to carry out their work.

    She said, “On behalf of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Federal Capital Territory Council, I express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering commitment to the welfare of workers, including media professionals. Your kind gestures and support have not gone unnoticed and have greatly encouraged us in our mission.

    “Today, we come with a sincere appeal for your support towards the establishment of a Journalists’ Village here in the FCT. This initiative is vital for providing affordable housing, professional facilities, and a conducive environment that will enhance the welfare and productivity of journalists who play a critical role in our democracy.

    “We believe that with the AMMC’s collaboration, we can secure the necessary resources, land, and policy backing to bring this vision to fruition. Such a village will not only improve the living standards of journalists but also serve as a hub for capacity building, relaxation, and professional growth.

    “We appreciate your past efforts and hope to count on your continued partnership to make this project a reality, thereby restoring dignity and stability to journalists who tirelessly serve the public interest” she added.

  • 2025 world press freedom: NUJ FCT advocates ethical use of AI in journalism

    2025 world press freedom: NUJ FCT advocates ethical use of AI in journalism

    The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, today joined media professionals across the globe to commemorate the 2025 World Press Freedom Day with a strong appeal for the ethical application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in journalism.

    Speaking in Abuja, the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, underscored the imperative for journalists to embrace the evolving media landscape driven by technological advancements, while steadfastly upholding the fundamental principles of press freedom.

    This year’s theme, “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” explores the transformative yet complex role of AI in journalism, highlighting both its empowering potential and the ethical dilemmas it presents.

    “Artificial Intelligence is redefining the way we produce and consume news,” Comrade Ike stated. “While it brings efficiency in content creation, enhances audience engagement, and strengthens fact-checking mechanisms, it also raises critical concerns regarding authorship, bias, accountability, and the threat of automated censorship.”

    She encouraged Nigerian journalists to remain attuned to the local context of their practice, even as they adapt to global digital innovations. She warned that increasing dependence on AI tools must not compromise journalistic integrity or undermine press freedom.

    Reaffirming the constitutional safeguard of press freedom in Nigeria, the NUJ FCT Chair commended the contributions of government institutions, civil society actors, and international partners in advancing media freedom, journalist safety, and access to information. However, she emphasized that more deliberate efforts are needed to realize a truly free and independent press.

    Comrade Ike further reiterated the Union’s commitment to fostering ethical journalism, enhancing professional standards, and promoting digital literacy among its members. She expressed readiness to engage with policymakers to ensure that AI integration in media practices aligns with democratic principles and public interest.

    “In this brave new world, collaboration among journalists, technologists, regulators, and citizens is essential to ensure that artificial intelligence serves as a tool for progress, not exclusion or manipulation,” she said.

    She concluded by urging media professionals to renew their dedication to the timeless values of truth, fairness, and courage, noting that while technologies evolve, the mission of journalism, to inform, enlighten, and serve the public, remains unchanged.

    World Press Freedom Day is observed annually on 3 May to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom and to remind governments of their obligation to uphold the right to freedom of expression.

  • NUJ FCT Chair Ike salutes workers, demands press freedom, fair conditions

    NUJ FCT Chair Ike salutes workers, demands press freedom, fair conditions

    As Nigerians join the rest of the world to mark International Workers’ Day, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Comrade Grace Ike, has praised the hard work and dedication of workers.

    Ike used the opportunity to also call for greater press freedom and better working conditions for journalists.

    In her May Day message, Ike spoke about the struggles many workers — especially journalists — are facing due to the current economic situation. 

    She echoed this year’s theme: “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship.”

    “Workers’ Day is not just a time to honour the value of work, but also a time to recommit ourselves to protecting the civic space — a space where every voice matters, where truth is defended, and where rights are respected,” she said.

    Ike highlighted the tough times Nigerian workers are going through, mentioning the rising cost of living, job insecurity, and limited opportunities. 

    She warned that these challenges not only affect people’s livelihoods but also threaten the very freedoms that support democracy.

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    “The media plays a vital role, now more than ever. Journalists must continue to speak out, hold leaders accountable, and protect the voices of the vulnerable. We must defend press freedom, push back against censorship, and fight for fair treatment at work,” she said. 

    She also called on all sectors, from the government to private employers and civil society, to support workers by creating better working environments.

    “Let’s not allow these economic struggles to take away our rights or silence us. Instead, let our difficulties unite us in building a fairer Nigeria where every worker has a real chance to thrive,” she urged. 

    Ike made a strong appeal for unity and action.

    “On this Workers’ Day, I ask everyone, from the government to employers, to stand by us. Let’s protect our freedoms, invest in our people, and turn workers’ sacrifices into real progress for our country,” she said. 

  • NUJ FCT seeks Wike’s intervention on deplorable infrastructure at Council Secretariat

    NUJ FCT seeks Wike’s intervention on deplorable infrastructure at Council Secretariat

    The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has appealed to the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, to urgently intervene in addressing the dilapidated state of infrastructure at the Council Secretariat in Utako, Abuja.

    The appeal formed a major resolution at the second Congress of the NUJ FCT Council held on Saturday, 12th April 2025. 

    Delegates at the meeting lamented the poor condition of the facility currently used for Congresses, describing it as unfit for a professional body of journalists operating within the nation’s capital

    These were contained in a communiqué signed by the Chairman, Communiqué Committee,  Odigie Ehidiamen Kelvin and two members,Kehinde Ayanfe and, Ebriku John.

    Congress called on the Minister, fondly referred to as Mr Project for his visible development strides across the FCT, to extend similar attention to the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat. 

    The Union also appealed to him to come to its aid in the completion of the long-delayed NUJ Pentagon, a building envisioned to serve as a landmark edifice for journalists in Abuja.

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    “The current state of our secretariat is appalling. We are earnestly appealing to the Honourable Minister to undertake a facility tour and see for himself the infrastructural decay we contend with. We believe that under his leadership, the Secretariat and Pentagon project can finally be transformed into a lasting legacy,” the Congress resolved.

    In addition to the infrastructure concerns, the NUJ FCT Council used the platform to draw attention to broader socio-economic issues confronting residents of the capital and Nigerians at large.

    Congress decried the persistent power outages across the FCT, attributing the problem to the inefficiencies of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC). It warned that the poor electricity supply was stifling productivity and negatively impacting quality of life.

    Similarly, members criticised the rising cost of telecommunications and internet data, describing it as a heavy financial burden on citizens. They urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to investigate billing practices and introduce measures that ensure affordability and consumer protection.

    The Congress also expressed grave concern over the increasing rate of maternal mortality, which it linked to worsening economic conditions and inflation. 

    It called on the Federal Government to provide free maternal healthcare services, including pre-natal, ante-natal, and post-natal care, to alleviate the burden on expectant mothers and reduce preventable deaths.

    In conclusion, the Congress reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the welfare of journalists and the general public, pledging continued engagement with relevant authorities to address these pressing challenges.

  • NUJ FCT celebrates mothers on Mothering Sunday

    NUJ FCT celebrates mothers on Mothering Sunday

    The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has joined millions across the globe in celebrating mothers on this year’s Mothering Sunday.

    The NUJ acknowledged their vital role in society and in the journalism profession.

    In a statement issued by the Secretary of Council, Jide Oyekunle, on Sunday, the Chairman of the Council, Comrade Grace Ike, praised the dedication, resilience, and sacrifices of mothers, particularly female journalists, who continuously balance their professional responsibilities with family life.

    “As journalists, we recognise and appreciate the resilience of female journalists who juggle the demands of their profession with their vital roles as mothers and caregivers. May this day serve as a reminder of their immense contributions to our homes, workplaces, and the nation at large,” she stated.

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    She further underscored the significant role of mothers in shaping narratives, nurturing future generations, and upholding the principles of truth and integrity within society.

    The NUJ FCT Council urged society to provide continuous support for mothers and ensure their efforts are duly recognised and appreciated.

    The message extended warm wishes to all mothers, encouraging them to take pride in their invaluable contributions to their families, professions, and the nation.

    Mothering Sunday, a long-standing tradition in many parts of the world, serves as an opportunity to honour the unconditional love and sacrifices of mothers, a sentiment echoed by the NUJ FCT Council in its message of appreciation.

  • Ramadan: NUJ FCT urges spiritual reflection

    Ramadan: NUJ FCT urges spiritual reflection

    The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has extended warm Ramadan greetings to all FCT Muslim brothers and sisters of the profession, urging them to embrace the values of compassion, unity, and self-discipline during the sacred month.

    Chairman of the Council, Comrade Grace Ike, described Ramadan as a period of deep spiritual reflection and an opportunity to renew one’s commitment to service, truth, and fairness in journalism.

    In a statement by the Secretary of the Council, Jide Oyekunle, urged empathy, humility and service.

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    She said, “During this month of fasting and prayer, may our hearts be filled with gratitude for the bounties we receive and the opportunities we have to serve our communities with truth and fairness.

    “It is a time to remember the importance of empathy, humility, and service—not only in our personal lives but also in our role as journalists committed to informing the public with accuracy and integrity.”

    Comrade Ike highlighted the significance of Ramadan in fostering solidarity and compassion. 

    She urged journalists to uphold their professional responsibilities despite the numerous challenges they face.

    “The month of Ramadan symbolises a time of reflection, compassion, and generosity, where individuals and communities come together to support one another and extend kindness to those in need,” Ike said.

    Ike further called on all journalists, regardless of their religious background, to use the Ramadan period to reflect on their professional and personal commitments, while strengthening unity within the media community.

    The statement concluded with prayers for peace, blessings, and prosperity for all Muslim faithful and their families, expressing hope that the spirit of Ramadan would guide everyone towards wisdom, courage, and compassion.