NUJ FCT Kicks Off 2026 Press Week with Medical Outreach, Health Walk, Public Lecture …Set to honour outstanding journalists, stakeholders

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, will officially commence its 2026 Press Week on Saturday, May 16, with a series of impactful activities designed to promote responsible journalism, healthy living, democratic accountability, and professional excellence.

The week-long event, scheduled to run from May 16 to May 22, 2026, will bring together journalists, policymakers, civil society organisations, media executives, and government officials to deliberate on critical national issues and celebrate excellence within the media industry.

The theme for this year’s Press Week is:

“2027 Election: Defending Nigeria’s Democracy in the Age of Disinformation.”

The theme underscores the strategic role of the media in combating fake news, misinformation, and disinformation ahead of the 2027 general elections, while promoting credible electoral processes and national cohesion.

Activities for the 2026 Press Week include:

Saturday, May 16, 2026 – Medical Outreach

Venue: NUJ FCT Council Secretariat, Utako

Time: 8:00am

Monday, May 18, 2026 – Walk for Mental Health

Take-off Point: Julius Berger Roundabout to NUJ Secretariat, Utako

Time: 7:00am

Tuesday, May 19, 2026 – Public Lecture and Awards Ceremony

Venue: Lagos/Osun Hall, Transcorp Hilton Abuja

Time: 9:00am

Thursday, May 21, 2026 – Secondary School Press Club Quiz Competition

Venue: NUJ FCT Council Secretariat, Utako

Time: 10:00am

Friday, May 22, 2026 – Grand Finale/Jean Party

Venue: NUJ FCT Council Secretariat, Utako

Time: 3:00pm prompt

The major highlight of the celebration will be the Public Lecture and Awards Ceremony expected to attract over 1,000 participants, including top government officials, media professionals, development partners, and stakeholders from across the country.

The Governor of Niger State, His Excellency Mohammed Umaru Bago, is expected to chair the event, while former Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, will serve as Co-Chairman.

Also expected at the event are the Inspector General of Police, political leaders, media executives, captains of industry, and prominent Nigerians from different sectors.

Former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, will deliver the keynote address.

As part of efforts to recognise professionalism and dedication within the media industry, the Council will honour outstanding journalists and notable Nigerians who have made significant contributions to journalism, democracy, and national development.

In line with its commitment to members’ welfare and public health awareness, the Council is partnering with Nizamiye Hospital to provide free medical checks and consultations for journalists and members of the public during the medical outreach.

Speaking ahead of the event, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, called on journalists, stakeholders, and members of the public to participate actively in all activities lined up for the week.

She described the 2026 Press Week as “a week of impact, reflection, celebration, networking, and professional excellence,” adding that the Council is committed to promoting ethical journalism and strengthening democratic values in Nigeria.

The Council assured all participants of a memorable, engaging, and rewarding celebration throughout the week-long activities.