'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - With a vision to transform the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Comrade Grace Ike officially launched her campaign for the chairmanship position on Sunday.
The event, held at the NUJ FCT Secretariat in Abuja, also featured free eye checks and treatment for over 100 journalists, symbolizing her commitment to members' welfare.
If elected on December 4, 2024, Ike would make history as the first female chairman of the FCT NUJ Council. She outlined her campaign promises, emphasizing empowerment, welfare, and inclusivity, with plans for insurance coverage for journalists and the establishment of a journalists' village in the FCT.
Ike's campaign has garnered support from influential NUJ stakeholders, including former NUJ FCT Council chairmen Amos Duniya, Abdul Jelil, Paul Ella Abechi, and Malachi Ozendu. Former National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) President Evelyn Onyilo and media veteran Moji Danisa also endorsed her candidacy, applauding her leadership experience and vision.
Addressing journalists, Grace Ike declared her campaign a movement to redefine the NUJ FCT Council. "This moment is more than a campaign—it is the birth of a movement driven by unity, innovation, and the collective dream of a stronger, more empowered union," she said.
She unveiled her campaign blueprint anchored on seven pillars: Accountability, Transparency, Accelerated Development, Capacity Building, Innovation, Improved Welfare, and Empowerment for All.
As part of the campaign launch, Ike organized free eye checks for journalists. Attendees received reading glasses and medications, underscoring her commitment to the health and well-being of union members.
Ike’s extensive experience as a journalist positions her as a strong contender. She previously served as Chairperson of the House of Representatives Press Corps and Vice Chair of the NUJ FCT Correspondents’ Chapel. With over 16 years of covering the legislative beat, Ike is well-versed in advocacy, ethical journalism, and gender equity, which she aims to bring to her leadership.
She promised to establish a journalists' village equipped with facilities for capacity building, relaxation, sports, and conferences. "This village will serve as a hub for professional growth and well-being," she stated.
Ike also highlighted the need for journalists to have insurance coverage to safeguard their welfare as they carry out their duties.
In her emotional address, Ike quoted Maya Angelou: “Nothing will work unless you do.” She called for collective action and collaboration from journalists to achieve the council’s transformation.
"This campaign is a partnership, a collective endeavor to write the next chapter of our council’s history—a chapter filled with progress, unity, and purpose," Ike declared. She pledged to visit NUJ chapels, share her vision, and maintain constant communication with members.
Ike’s campaign theme, "One Voice for a New Era," reflects her aspiration to unite journalists and build a council that prioritizes their welfare, professional development, and inclusive policies. She assured members that her administration would focus on addressing welfare gaps, promoting ethical journalism, and equipping journalists to thrive in a dynamic media landscape.
Concluding her speech, Ike formally declared her campaign launched:
"With pride, passion, and a heart full of hope, I hereby declare the campaign for the NUJ FCT Council Chairmanship officially flagged off."
As the election date approaches, Ike’s campaign has set a new tone for leadership in the NUJ FCT Council, emphasizing empowerment, welfare, and unity.
