The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has been honoured with the Beacon of Education Award by Beautiful Beginning Academy in recognition of her commitment to educational excellence and outstanding contributions to youth development.
The award was presented on Friday during the Academy’s 2026 graduation ceremony held at Nile University, following the school’s acknowledgement of the pivotal role played by the NUJ FCT Council under Ike’s leadership in its victory at a national media quiz competition.
Presenting the award before parents, teachers, graduands and other dignitaries, the Proprietor and Managing Director of Beautiful Beginning Academy, Dr. Mrs. Rosemary Nasa Okolie, described Comrade Ike as a compassionate leader whose selfless support has positively impacted the lives of many children without seeking public recognition.
She recounted that barely two weeks before the national competition, she reached out to the NUJ FCT Council for assistance after learning of the school’s participation.
According to her, Comrade Ike immediately embraced the initiative, ensuring the pupils received welfare support, gifts and logistics throughout the competition, helping to boost their morale and confidence.
Dr. Okolie said the intervention played a significant role in the school’s emergence as the overall winner of the competition.
“She came in and changed the narrative. There is nothing I can give her that equals what she has done for these children,” she said.
The Academy described the NUJ FCT Chairman as a beacon of compassion whose commitment continues to inspire both learners and educators, noting that the award recognises her dedication to advancing education and empowering young people.
Receiving the honour, an emotional Comrade Ike said she had no prior knowledge that she would be recognised, describing the award as both a pleasant surprise and a renewed call to greater service.
Holding back tears, she dedicated the award to Ms. Adaeze Tochukwu Taha Okeke, a student with special needs whose inspiring story touched her deeply during the graduation ceremony.
“I dedicate this award to Adaeze,” Ike said.
She pledged to devote more of her time, professional platform and influence to advocating for children living with special needs.
“I will amplify their voices, tell their stories and continue to use journalism to draw attention to their needs so society can better support them,” she said.
Comrade Ike also commended Adaeze’s family for their unwavering commitment and resilience, promising that their story would continue to inspire advocacy for inclusion, equal opportunities and greater support for children with special needs.
The presentation of the Beacon of Education Award attracted a standing ovation from guests and emerged as one of the highlights of the 2026 Beautiful Beginning Academy graduation ceremony, underscoring the growing impact of journalism, philanthropy and community partnerships in promoting inclusive education in Nigeria.
