The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has reaffirmed its dedication to prioritizing the welfare of its members and promoting ethical journalism in the year ahead. This message delivered in a New Year statement, sets the tone for the Council’s objectives in 2025.

Commitment to Unity and Collective Effort

The statement, signed by the council’s secretary, Jide Oyekunle, includes a powerful New Year message from the Council’s Chairperson, Comrade Grace Ike, describing 2025 as a “Year of Hope and Resilience,”.

Ike called for unity and collective effort to continue advancing the Council’s goals. She acknowledged the dedication and hard work of the members in overcoming the challenges faced in 2024, a year that, despite its difficulties, saw significant achievements.

“Your contributions, collaboration, and commitment to the ideals of journalism have been the bedrock of our collective success,” Ike said. She praised the perseverance and steadfastness of the members, which were instrumental in reaching the council’s milestones over the past year.

A Shared Responsibility for Success

Ike emphasized the importance of collective action in achieving the Council’s aspirations, noting that the responsibilities of the Council’s leadership cannot be shouldered alone.

“The responsibilities of this office cannot be borne by the Grace Ike-led Team Exco alone. Our collective strength, unity, and shared vision are essential to achieving the greatness we aspire to,” she stated, urging members to continue their active engagement in Council activities.

Focus on Professionalism and Press Freedom

In her message, Ike reiterated the NUJ FCT Council’s commitment to maintaining high standards of professionalism, advocating for press freedom, and upholding ethical journalism. She assured members that the Executive Committee would remain steadfast in their support for the welfare of the members and the growth of the Council.

“Together, we can make the NUJ FCT Council a shining example of excellence, setting benchmarks for others to emulate,” Ike said, urging all members to work towards these shared goals in the coming year.

Optimism for a Year of Greater Achievements

Looking ahead, the Chairman expressed optimism that 2025 would bring even greater success and meaningful impact for the Council and its members. She concluded her message by wishing all members and their families joy, good health, and prosperity in the New Year. Ike called on members to collaborate and work together to continue advancing both the Council and the journalism profession as a whole.

With this renewed focus and vision for the year ahead, the NUJ FCT Council is poised to make significant strides in strengthening the journalism community and ensuring the welfare of its members.

Scholarship Program to Support 20 Journalists Pursuing Post Graduate Diplomat in Journalism at IIJ Abuja

In a move to promote professional development among journalists, the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council has officially launched the 2024/2025 Scholarship Program for members seeking a Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism (PGDJ) at the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) in Abuja.

Read Also; NUJ FCT Council Distributes Over 600 Bags of Rice to Members in Festive Welfare Initiative

The announcement was made by the Secretary of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, who shared the details of the initiative in a statement on Tuesday.

The scholarship, which aims to support the career growth of journalists in the FCT, is part of the ongoing efforts by the newly elected executive, led by Chairperson Comrade Grace Ike, to invest in capacity building and professional advancement.

Eligibility Criteria and Support Structure

To qualify for the scholarship, journalists must meet several key criteria, including being in good financial standing with the union for the last two years and possessing valid NUJ Identity Cards for 2023 and 2024. Additionally, applicants must have been actively participating in NUJ congresses and union activities.

The program will cover 50% of the tuition fees for selected journalists, with the remaining 50% to be borne by the candidates themselves.

The scholarship is designed to support 20 journalists across various chapels under the Council, providing an invaluable opportunity to enhance their skills and qualifications.

A Promise Kept: Focus on Capacity Building

Comrade Grace Ike, who recently assumed leadership of the NUJ FCT Council, expressed her pride in fulfilling one of her key campaign promises: prioritizing the professional development of union members.

“When we promised to invest in the professional growth of our members, we meant every word,” Comrade Ike said. “

This scholarship is a testament to our commitment to making the NUJ FCT Council a hub for excellence and career advancement.” She further expressed optimism for the future, noting that the year 2025 holds even more promising opportunities for members of the Council.

“This scholarship program reflects our unwavering focus on capacity building and ensuring our members remain competitive in today’s dynamic media industry,” she added.

Empowering Journalists for Career Growth

The scholarship initiative is expected to encourage greater participation in union activities, while also equipping journalists with the advanced skills needed to excel in the fast-evolving media landscape. Comrade Ike emphasized that the program is part of the broader vision to elevate the profession and provide members with the necessary tools to thrive in their careers.

“Our mission is not only to serve but to elevate the profession and provide the tools for our members to thrive,” she stated. “Together, we are redefining what it means to be part of the NUJ FCT Council.”

Nomination Process and Next Steps

Chapel Chairmen have been instructed to nominate eligible candidates for the scholarship, with those meeting the conditions to be enrolled in the 2024/2025 academic session at the IIJ.

This initiative represents a major milestone in the NUJ FCT Council’s ongoing efforts to empower its members and foster a culture of professional growth within the media sector.

Journalists are encouraged to take advantage of this unique opportunity to enhance their qualifications and contribute to the continued development of the Nigerian media landscape.

Read Also;NUJ FCT Council Extends Warm Christmas Greetings to Members, Urges Reflection and Unity

Abuja, Nigeria — In a remarkable demonstration of its commitment to members’ welfare, the Grace Ike-led Executive Committee of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council has launched an unprecedented welfare initiative, distributing over 600 bags of rice to members in celebration of the Christmas season.

The event, held at the NUJ FCT Secretariat, was filled with excitement, camaraderie, and an overwhelming sense of gratitude as members gathered to receive the thoughtful gesture.

A Festive Celebration of Unity and Support

The atmosphere at the NUJ FCT Secretariat was vibrant as members exchanged festive greetings, sharing in the joy of the season. Many expressed heartfelt thanks for the union’s initiative, which underscored its unwavering commitment to the well-being of its members. The distribution of rice, which was met with cheers and appreciation, has been hailed as a testament to the leadership’s dedication to strengthening the bond among members, especially during the holiday season.

The excitement in the air reflected not just the generosity of the gesture but also the unity it fostered among members. The event became an opportunity for the NUJ FCT community to come together, celebrating not only the season’s spirit but also the union’s ongoing efforts to prioritize its members’ needs.

Grace Ike Highlights the Significance of the Initiative

Addressing the gathering, Grace Ike, Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Council, explained the importance of the initiative in promoting peace, unity, and a sense of belonging within the union.

“We have started distributing rice to our members to celebrate the festive season. Christmas is a time to honor the birth of Jesus Christ while promoting peaceful coexistence, love, and unity,” Ike said. “This initiative reflects our oath of allegiance and our resolve to foster joy, peace, and unity among NUJ FCT Council members.”

Grace stressed that this initiative marked a historic first for the council, as no such large-scale welfare program had been undertaken before. She reassured members that this was just the beginning of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing their welfare and fostering a more inclusive union.

Over 600 Members Benefiting from the Initiative

The distribution of rice reached over 600 members, based on the most recent congress register, ensuring that those who have actively participated in the union were prioritized. Ike emphasized that this method of distribution served not only to provide support but also to encourage further participation in the union’s activities.

“We are reaching over 600 members based on the last congress register as the criterion for distribution. This approach encourages participation in the union and demonstrates to our members that the union belongs to them,” she explained.

Ike also reassured members that this was only the first batch of welfare distribution, with plans for a second batch scheduled for January. The union leadership remains committed to ensuring transparency and efficiency in all its operations. “We are fully committed to accountability, efficiency, and transparency in our operations,” she added.

A Commitment to Selfless Service

Reflecting on the early days of the Grace Ike-led administration, Ike noted that despite taking office less than a month ago without formal handovers or resources, the new executive committee immediately set to work. “Our driving force is the passion for humanity and the need to give back to society. We are committed to selfless service, humility, and dedication in all we do,” she said.

The welfare initiative, she added, was driven by a deep sense of responsibility and the desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of NUJ FCT members.

Praise and Gratitude from Chapel Leaders

The welfare initiative was met with widespread appreciation from chapel leaders across the council. In a show of gratitude, a representative of the chapels commended the leadership for its bold and unprecedented move. “This initiative demonstrates the council’s sincere commitment to member welfare. It has strengthened our confidence in the current leadership and its ability to deliver impactful services. We are deeply appreciative of the thoughtfulness and hard work that made this possible,” the representative said.

Setting a Benchmark for Welfare-Driven Leadership

The rice distribution initiative has set a new standard for welfare-driven leadership within the NUJ FCT Council. It highlights the Grace Ike-led administration’s focus on fostering stronger relationships among members while ensuring that their needs are met in both challenging and celebratory times.

As the NUJ FCT Council moves into the new year, the leadership’s focus on transparency, accountability, and active member engagement promises to further solidify its commitment to the welfare of the union’s members.