NUJ FCT Chairman, Grace Ike, Distributes 600 Bags of Rice to Abuja Journalists

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has reiterated her administration’s firm commitment to members’ welfare and the overall progress of the union, as the council distributed over 600 bags of rice to journalists in Abuja.

The distribution, now an annual initiative under her leadership, is designed to cushion the effects of the prevailing economic hardship on members while strengthening unity and solidarity within the council.

Earlier, Comrade Ike and members of the Executive Council held an end-of-year interactive session with members of the State Executive Council (SEC), comprising chairmen and secretaries of the various chapels. At the meeting, she presented an update on the council’s achievements, with particular emphasis on the ongoing construction and remodelling of the NUJ Congress Hall. She called for continued cooperation and collective effort to further strengthen the council and consolidate the gains recorded so far.

The meeting climaxed with a unanimous vote of confidence in Comrade Ike’s leadership, which SEC members described as proactive, pragmatic, purposeful and performance-driven.

Addressing journalists during the rice distribution, Comrade Ike explained that the initiative went beyond seasonal goodwill, describing it as a deliberate expression of the council’s commitment to members’ welfare.

“It is with immense joy and gratitude that we gather today for this special moment of sharing and solidarity,” she said. “On behalf of the NUJ FCT Council, I am pleased to announce the distribution of over 600 bags of rice to our members as we usher in the Christmas season.

“This gesture is more than a distribution; it is a heartfelt commitment to the welfare of every journalist who tirelessly upholds the values of truth, accountability and public service in the FCT.”

She noted that the programme was being implemented for the second consecutive year, following the positive impact recorded during its maiden edition.

“This initiative, now in its second year, was born out of our collective resolve to put smiles on the faces of our members despite life’s challenges,” she said. “Last year, we saw the joy it brought into homes and how it strengthened our bonds as one family.”

According to her, the council remains determined to ensure that no member is left behind, especially during a season that symbolises love, generosity and togetherness.

“These bags of rice are not just food items for the festive table; they symbolise the council’s unwavering support for you—our frontline professionals in the fourth estate of the realm,” she added.

Comrade Ike also reminded members of the core values of unionism, solidarity and collective responsibility, particularly at a time when journalists face increasing professional and personal pressures.

“As we approach Christmas, a season of giving, reflection and renewal, let this gesture remind us of the true essence of our union: solidarity in service,” she said. “We recognise the sacrifices you make daily in defending press freedom, advocating accountability and giving voice to the voiceless. It is our duty to stand by you, just as you stand for justice.”

She expressed gratitude to sponsors, partners and members of the Executive Council for their support, noting that their collective efforts were helping to redefine care and community within the NUJ FCT Council.

As members received their bags of rice, the NUJ FCT Chairman urged them to embrace the spirit of the season and carry home not just food items, but also a renewed sense of unity and shared purpose.

“Carry home not only rice, but the warmth of our shared journey,” she said. “Merry Christmas in advance, and may this season bring peace, prosperity and renewed strength for the year ahead. God bless NUJ FCT and God bless Nigeria.”

The initiative once again highlights the NUJ FCT Council’s resolve to prioritise journalists’ welfare while fostering unity, compassion and shared responsibility within the union.