The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has reiterated her administration’s strong commitment to members’ welfare and the overall growth of the union with the distribution of over 600 bags of rice to journalists in Abuja to mark the Christmas season.
The welfare initiative, which has become an annual tradition under her leadership, is aimed at cushioning the impact of prevailing economic challenges on journalists while fostering unity, solidarity and collective responsibility within the council.
Earlier, Comrade Ike, alongside members of the Executive Council, held an end-of-year interactive session with members of the State Executive Council (SEC), comprising chairmen and secretaries of various chapels. During the meeting, she briefed participants on key achievements recorded by the council, with particular emphasis on the ongoing construction and remodelling of the NUJ Congress Hall. She urged members to sustain cooperation and collaboration to further strengthen the council and consolidate the gains already recorded.
The meeting culminated in a unanimous vote of confidence in Comrade Ike’s leadership, which SEC members described as proactive, pragmatic, purposeful and performance-driven.
Speaking during the rice distribution exercise, the NUJ FCT Chairman said the initiative went beyond a seasonal gesture, described it as a deliberate demonstration of the council’s commitment to members’ welfare.
“It is with immense joy and gratitude that we gather today for this special moment of sharing and solidarity,” she said. “On behalf of the NUJ FCT Council, I am proud to announce that we are set to distribute over 600 bags of rice to our members as we usher in the Christmas season.
“This gesture is more than a distribution; it is a heartfelt commitment to the welfare of every one of you who tirelessly upholds the pillars of truth, accountability and public service in the Federal Capital Territory.”
Comrade Ike noted that the exercise was being carried out for the second consecutive year, following the remarkable impact recorded during its maiden edition.
“This marks the second consecutive year we have undertaken this initiative, a tradition born from our collective resolve to bring smiles to your faces amid life’s challenges,” she said. “Last year, we witnessed the joy it sparked in homes, strengthening our bonds as a family united by purpose.”
She stressed that the council remains determined to ensure that no member is left behind, particularly during a season that symbolises love and generosity.
“These bags of rice represent not just sustenance for the festive table, but a symbol of our council’s unwavering support for you, our frontline warriors in the fourth estate,” she added.
The NUJ FCT Chairman also reminded members of the essence of unionism and collective responsibility at a time journalists continue to face professional and personal challenges.
“As we approach Christmas, a season of giving, reflection and renewal, let this act remind us of the true essence of our union: solidarity in service,” she said, while commending journalists for their sacrifices in upholding press freedom and amplifying the voices of the voiceless.
Comrade Ike expressed appreciation to sponsors, partners and members of the Executive Council for their support, noting that their collective efforts were helping to redefine care and community within the NUJ FCT Council.
As members received their bags of rice, she urged them to embrace the spirit of the season and carry home a renewed sense of unity and shared purpose.
“Merry Christmas in advance, and may this season bring you peace, prosperity and renewed vigour for the year ahead,” she said.
The initiative once again underscored the NUJ FCT Council’s resolve to prioritise journalists’ welfare while strengthening unity, compassion and shared responsibility within the union.
