The 2025 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, commenced on a spiritual note on Friday with a congregational prayer held at the NASFAT Mosque in Utako, Abuja.
Delivering the sermon, the Acting Zonal Missionary Imam of NASFAT FCT, Imam Marouf Farouji, urged journalists and the leadership of NUJ to remain steadfast in their dedication to humanity and uphold the ethics of the profession.
“Let us thank Almighty Allah for the gift of life, for being human, and for being Muslim,” he said. “The Holy Qur’an addresses all aspects of life, including journalism, communication, and information dissemination. Poorly informed societies are more prone to corruption. But when people are properly informed, they are more likely to act ethically.”
Imam Farouji commended the role of journalists across all media platforms print, audio, visual, and digital for their essential contribution to societal growth and enlightenment.
“Journalism is here to stay. It plays a vital role in transforming society and fostering awareness, whether among Muslims or Christians. The information journalists share helps people fulfill their civic and spiritual responsibilities. May Allah continue to strengthen and guide them,” he added.
Representing the NUJ FCT Council at the event, the Council’s Vice Chairman, Comrade Yahaya Ndambabo, said the choice to begin the Press Week with prayer reflected Nigeria’s religious and cultural values.
“Nigeria is a deeply religious country, and journalists are not exempt. Beginning this year’s Press Week with an Islamic prayer here at NASFAT is a nod to that shared value,” he said.
Ndambabo revealed that a Christian service will hold on Sunday, highlighting the Council’s commitment to inclusivity and the importance of divine guidance in their professional journey.
“As we dedicate this week to God, we are also focused on improving journalists’ welfare in the FCT, particularly in areas like affordable housing and enhanced protection,” he said.
He also reiterated the union’s commitment to ethics and professionalism: “We encourage all journalists to maintain high ethical standards and join the fight against fake news. Combating misinformation begins with us.”
The solemn event attracted journalists from across Abuja and beyond, setting a reflective tone for a week filled with impactful activities. Other events lined up included a public lecture and a campaign to revive press clubs in secondary schools across the FCT.
