The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, in collaboration with Nizamiye Hospital, on Saturday conducted a free medical outreach for over 300 journalists in Abuja.
The exercise, held at the NUJ FCT Secretariat in Utako, focused on routine health screenings, during which many participants were found to have high blood pressure and elevated sugar levels.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, praised the initiative as timely and thoughtful. Represented by the Director of Medical Services, Surgeon Commodore Momoh Jimoh Salihu, the CDS said, “It is a laudable effort. Kudos to NUJ FCT and Nizamiye Hospital for organising this outreach. It will undoubtedly enhance the well-being and productivity of journalists.”
NUJ FCT Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, expressed appreciation to the hospital for mobilising a team of specialists including a general surgeon, internist, cardiologist, nephrologist, ophthalmologist, and general practitioners for the exercise.
She highlighted the need for such interventions, noted, “Journalists are constantly on the move, often neglecting their own health. This outreach is part of our commitment to ensure members receive regular medical attention.”
She further noted that the results of the screening would help the council advance efforts to secure health insurance for members. “This is just the beginning. We intend to do more,” she said, promising continued collaboration with healthcare institutions.
Mohammed Abubakar, Deputy Chief Operating Officer of Nizamiye Hospital, said the outreach formed part of the hospital’s corporate social responsibility. “Our aim is to promote preventive healthcare. We’re committed to humanitarian support and public health partnerships,” he said.
He added that follow-up care would be provided to those diagnosed with serious conditions, particularly eye issues and surgical cases.
Deputy Medical Director of Nizamiye Hospital, Dr. Nurullo Sadokov, also underscored the importance of early diagnosis. “Some cases we’ve identified include hypertension, diabetes, hernia, and haemorrhoids. Those requiring further attention will be guided to our facility for comprehensive care.”
The NUJ FCT and Nizamiye Hospital said the outreach is part of a broader goal to support journalists’ health and enhance their capacity to serve the public.
