by Ola Williams-
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has entered a partnership with Nizamiye Hospital to deliver free medical services as part of activities for its upcoming Press Week in June. The outreach aims to boost public health awareness and provide essential medical care to journalists and underserved communities in Abuja.
During a recent courtesy visit to Nizamiye Hospital, a delegation led by NUJ FCT Chairperson, Comrade Grace Ike, met with hospital executives to formalize the collaboration.
“This collaboration marks the beginning of a broader relationship beyond medical outreach,” Ike said. “We can also work together on underreported issues like supporting internally displaced persons (IDPs), using our media platforms to amplify such causes.”
Nizamiye Hospital’s Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Mohammed Abubakar, welcomed the initiative and pledged the hospital’s full participation.
“We welcome this kind of partnership,” he said. “All we require is a formal letter outlining the plan, and we’ll proceed together.”
Abubakar also lauded the Federal Government’s recent removal of tariffs on imported pharmaceuticals, describing the move as a “bold and necessary step” toward making healthcare more affordable.
“The zero tariff policy is a commendable initiative that will improve access to quality medication,” he noted. “The media must now play its part by educating the public on the excellent healthcare services available locally. We must reverse the tide of medical tourism.”
Highlighting Nizamiye’s track record in community health service, Abubakar said the hospital has conducted medical outreaches in Nasarawa, Katsina, Bauchi, and Imo States, serving thousands of beneficiaries.
“Our outreach programs span cardiology, orthopedics, pediatrics, gynecology, ophthalmology, and dentistry,” he explained. “This is part of our corporate social responsibility to reach the underserved.”
Comrade Ike praised Nizamiye Hospital’s dedication to quality and its willingness to engage in public service.
“The NUJ is committed to the welfare of its members and to driving public interest stories,” she added. “This partnership reflects our shared vision for a healthier, more informed society.”
The NUJ-Nizamiye partnership is expected to be a major highlight of the NUJ FCT Press Week and underscores the growing synergy between the media and health sectors to drive social impact.
