The Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory Council, Grace Ike, has issued a clarion call for unity and professional integrity as members step into the year 2026. In a New Year address, Ike urged journalists to embrace the coming year with a spirit of optimism and a profound sense of duty to the public.
A Message of Hope and Responsibility
Grace Ike praised the resilience and professionalism demonstrated by council members throughout the challenges of the preceding year. She stated that the dawn of 2026 brings with it a renewed sense of hope and an even greater responsibility for media practitioners. “The New Year beckons us with renewed hope and a greater responsibility,” she affirmed, setting a purposeful tone for the months ahead.
Key Priorities for the Year Ahead
The Chairman outlined the Council's primary focus areas for 2026, which are centered on improving the lives and skills of its members. These key initiatives include:
- Enhancing members' welfare and advocating for better working conditions.
- Investing in professional development and creating more capacity-building opportunities.
- Fostering greater unity within the council and the broader journalism community.
This strategic focus aims to empower journalists to perform their crucial roles more effectively.
Reaffirming the Pillars of Ethical Journalism
In an era where misinformation threatens public trust, Ike stressed the non-negotiable need for journalists to recommit to the foundational principles of their profession. She emphasized adherence to:
- Accuracy in reporting.
- Fairness and balance in coverage.
- Unwavering integrity guided by the Code of Ethics for Nigerian journalists.
“Ethical journalism remains the cornerstone of our profession,” she reiterated, highlighting its role as the bedrock of credible media and a functional democracy.
Concluding her message on January 1, 2026, Grace Ike extended warm wishes for a peaceful, fulfilling, and prosperous New Year to all members of the NUJ FCT Council and their families.