Comrade Grace Ike 


The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, on Saturday tasked  government at different levels to improve  the economic and social status  of the citizens


The Union at its monthly Congress  critically examined  the rising cost of living, poor power supply and insecurity in States across the Federation and urged  the government to do more in addressing them for the overall good of the people. 

    


                                                

The monthly Congress, the first in the administration of the recently elected Comrade Grace Ike-led Executive Committee, commended Chief Nyesom Wike, Minister of the FCT for his visible efforts at improving infrastructural development within the FCT and urged him to tackle more economic reforms for citizens in the FCT.


These were contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the Congress which held on Saturday at the Council’s Secretariat, Utako, Abuja and attended by over 400 journalists.


The Congress presided over by Comrade Ike, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, marked a significant milestone as former Chairmen of Council and NAWOJ past leaders were also in attendance.                                                               

In her opening remarks, Comrade Ike assured of the commitment of the executive to the prosperity and unity of the members of the Council.


She said; “It is a privilege to welcome you all to this momentous first Congress of the NUJ FCT Council under our leadership. Today represents more than a formal gathering; it is an opportunity to reaffirm our shared commitment to unity, progress, and the collective good of our profession”.                                             

During the Congress  members deliberated on several critical issues affecting journalists and the nation, highlighting the rising cost of living as a major challenge.


The Congress noted the escalating cost of basic goods and services as a heavy burden on Nigerians and called for immediate measures by the Federal Government to alleviate these hardships.


The Congress particularly expressed concern over the erratic power supply within the Federal Capital Territory, in spite of the ‘Band A to E’ categorisation, stressing that its impact on businesses on the daily lives of residents is of serious concern.


The communique further stated; “The frequent disruption in electricity and water supply are pushing operational costs higher and reducing profit margins for businesses, placing an additional strain on the average Nigerian”.                                                        


The NUJ therefore urged  relevant agencies to prioritize the restoration of basic amenities to improve the quality of life in the region.


It also voiced its grave concern over rising insecurity, including disturbing reports of ritual killings and other heinous acts, linking these incidents to economic downturn. The NUJ therefore stressed the need for a collaborative effort in addressing economic and security challenges being experienced by citizens.


The FCT NUJ pledged its commitment to unity and advancement of the union for the betterment of her members.