The Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC) has pledged to support the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, in enhancing infrastructure for journalists and advancing the proposed Journalists’ Village initiative.
AMMC Coordinator, Chief Felix Amechi Obuah, made this known on Tuesday while receiving the NUJ FCT Chairperson, Ms. Grace Ike, and her executive members during a courtesy visit to the Council’s corporate headquarters in Abuja.
Obuah lauded the crucial role of the media in promoting transparency, accountability, and public education, noting that AMMC remains open to strategic partnerships that align with the FCT’s master plan.
“I am happy to partner with the NUJ FCT Council. The media is a key stakeholder in the development of our capital city. Together, we can drive compliance with the master plan and promote infrastructural growth,” he said.
He assured the NUJ of future collaboration, stating that although current budget constraints limit immediate support, the Council would consider the Union’s proposals in subsequent budgets.
“Send an official proposal. I will ensure it is reflected in the next budget and also present it to my superior, the Honourable Minister of FCT, for necessary consideration,” he added.
The AMMC boss also congratulated Ms. Ike on her historic emergence as the first female chairperson of the NUJ FCT Council and prayed for her successful tenure.
Earlier, Ms. Ike commended Chief Obuah for his leadership and achievements in the coordination of municipal services and infrastructure within the FCT. She applauded his commitment to workers’ welfare, which earned him the Employees’ Advocate of the Year award.
Highlighting infrastructural challenges faced by the NUJ FCT Council, Ms. Ike appealed for AMMC’s support in completing the union’s Pentagon building and constructing a multipurpose hall to accommodate over 2,000 journalists during monthly congresses.
She also presented the proposed Journalists’ Village project a vision aimed at providing affordable housing and a professional hub for media practitioners in the FCT.
“We believe that with AMMC’s support, we can secure the necessary land, resources, and policy backing to make this village a reality. It will enhance the welfare, productivity, and dignity of journalists who serve the public tirelessly,” Ms. Ike stated.
She expressed optimism that the partnership would strengthen the Union’s efforts and contribute to a more functional and media-friendly Federal Capital Territory.
