In a landmark moment for the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council, Ms. Grace Ike of Advocate Broadcasting Network (ADBN) has been elected as its first female Chairman since the council’s establishment 34 years ago.
Ike was sworn in on Wednesday, alongside four other executive members: Mr. Yahaya Ndambabo of Voice of Nigeria (VON) as Vice Chairman, Comrade Jide Oyekunle of Independent Newspaper as Secretary, and Sandra Udeike of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) as Treasurer. The remaining vacant positions are set to be filled through a by-election.
The unopposed election, conducted under tight security by officials from the NUJ National Secretariat, witnessed a massive turnout of journalists from various media organizations and chapels operating within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The oath of office was administered by Barrister Ehidiamen Isibor, under the supervision of the Credentials Committee chaired by Mr. Henry Umoru.
In her inaugural speech, Ike described her election as a “new dawn” for journalists in the nation’s capital, vowing to prioritize members’ welfare and introduce innovative projects.
“With immense gratitude and a profound sense of responsibility, I stand before you today as your elected Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council. This moment is both humbling and inspiring, and I thank you sincerely for the trust and confidence you have placed in me,” she said.
She also extended her congratulations to the newly elected NUJ National President, Alhaji Yahya Alhassan, and other members of the National Executive Council. “Your emergence symbolizes a new chapter, and I pledge the unwavering support of the FCT Council as we work collaboratively to strengthen the ideals of our profession,” she said.
Acknowledging the support of women in the council, Ike expressed deep gratitude: “To the women of this council—those who stood by me with unwavering determination and strength throughout this journey—I offer my heartfelt appreciation. Your courage, resilience, and support were pivotal to this victory, and I am forever grateful. Together, we will continue to inspire and empower one another.”
Quoting leadership expert John C. Maxwell, Ike reaffirmed her commitment to unity and progress: “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way. With these words as our guide, we shall chart a course toward unity, progress, and excellence for our union.”
Adeiza Momohjimoh, Vice President of NUJ Zone D, presented the certificates of return to Ike and her team, commending the seamless process and congratulating them on their victory. Ike, a seasoned journalist, brings a wealth of experience to her new role.
She previously served as Chairperson of the House of Representatives Press Corps and Vice Chairman of the FCT Correspondents Chapel. Her career includes stints at Independent Television (ITV) and Silverbird Television, among other notable roles.
The newly elected officials will lead the NUJ FCT Council for the next three years, ushering in what many hope will be a transformative era for the union.
