The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Grace Ike, has been widely commended for her outstanding commitment to youth empowerment and educational development through impactful academic initiatives across the Federal Capital Territory.
Speaking on the importance of education in nation-building, Grace Ike reaffirmed her dedication to nurturing future leaders through programmes that encourage academic excellence, critical thinking, and intellectual engagement among students.
As part of this vision, the NUJ FCT Council recently organized quiz and academic competitions involving selected secondary schools within the FCT, providing students with a platform to showcase their talents, build confidence, and improve their academic performance.
According to Grace Ike, “Education remains one of the strongest foundations for building a better society. When young people are encouraged and given the right opportunities, they are inspired to pursue excellence and contribute meaningfully to national development.”
The initiative has been described by stakeholders as timely and impactful, especially at a period when many young people require guidance, motivation, and positive engagement to remain focused on their educational pursuits.
Teachers and parents who witnessed the competition praised the programme for promoting discipline, teamwork, healthy academic rivalry, and a stronger culture of learning among students.
One school administrator noted, “This competition has greatly motivated our students. It has awakened their interest in academic activities and encouraged them to believe in their abilities.”
Another participant described the experience as inspiring, saying, “We are grateful for this opportunity. It has helped us gain confidence and challenged us to work harder in our studies.”
Observers say the initiative reflects Grace Ike’s deep understanding of the role education plays in shaping responsible citizens and future leaders, while also demonstrating that the media profession can contribute significantly to national development beyond information dissemination.
Many residents of the FCT, including parents, students, and education stakeholders, have continued to applaud her visionary leadership and dedication to humanity, expressing hope for more impactful programmes under her administration.
