'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER — History was made in the Nigerian media space as Comrade Grace Ike of Advocate Broadcasting Network (ADBN) was sworn in as the first female Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council. With 445 affirmative votes, Ike, the immediate past Vice Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Correspondents' Chapel and Chairperson of the House of Representatives Press Corps, emerged as the 17th leader of the Council.
In her inaugural speech at the NUJ FCT headquarters in Abuja, Ike pledged to revolutionize the affairs of the Council, prioritizing members’ welfare, capacity building, infrastructure development, and accountability.
The newly inaugurated Chairperson expressed gratitude to her supporters for their sacrifices and reaffirmed her commitment to serving the union with transparency and inclusivity. Reflecting on the magnitude of her election, Ike said:
“As I assume this noble office, I am guided by the timeless words of John C. Maxwell: ‘A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.’ With this wisdom, we will navigate a path toward unity, progress, and excellence for our union.”
Ike outlined her vision for the NUJ FCT Council, anchored on welfare, training, infrastructure, inclusivity, and professional integrity:
Welfare Initiatives:
The administration plans to introduce affordable health insurance schemes and empowerment programs to enhance members' well-being.
Capacity Building:
A flagship initiative will sponsor 20 members for the 2024/2025 Postgraduate Program at the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) with a 50% subsidy. Ike also promised increased access to local and international training opportunities.
Infrastructure Development:
Transforming the FCT NUJ press center into a world-class facility and promoting regular sporting activities to foster wellness and camaraderie are top priorities.
Media Enhancement Bill:
In collaboration with the NUJ National Secretariat, the council will advocate for the passage of the Media Enhancement Bill to protect and elevate journalism as a profession.
Inclusivity and Accountability:
Ike promised a transparent administration where every voice is heard, and financial records remain open to ensure trust and accountability.
Professional Integrity:
Addressing the issue of quackery in journalism, she vowed to uphold the integrity of the profession while pursuing the realization of a journalists' village.
Empowerment Programs:
Early in 2025, a Creative Writing Workshop Endowment will be introduced to nurture creativity and innovation among members.
Ike called on all members of the NUJ FCT Council to join hands in building a stronger union. Quoting an African proverb, she emphasized collective effort: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
She reiterated her commitment to the ideals of the union, stating, “Together, we will build a legacy of professionalism, progress, and pride—a union that will stand as a beacon for generations to come.”
Ike also acknowledged the recently elected National Executive of the NUJ led by Alhaji Alhassan Yahaya Abdulahi, describing their emergence as a fresh chapter for the union. She pledged the FCT Council's support in strengthening journalism across Nigeria.
As Ike assumes office, she assured members of her determination to transform the council and called for actionable ideas from all stakeholders to drive the union forward.
“The road ahead may be challenging, but with unity, determination, and faith, it will be rewarding. Thank you for this opportunity to serve. Let us forge ahead together into this new era of transformation,” Ike concluded.
Her election marks a new chapter in the NUJ FCT Council, with members and stakeholders optimistic about her leadership.
