Ms. Grace Ike of Advocate Broadcasting Network (ADBN) has made history as the first female Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, 43 years after its establishment.
Grace was elected and sworn in on Wednesday alongside 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 unopposed election was conducted under tight security by officials from the NUJ National Secretariat, drawing a significant turnout of journalists from various media organizations and chapels in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The newly elected officials will lead the council for the next three years, while the vacant positions are expected to be filled through a by-election.
Barr. Ehidiamen Isibor administered the oath of office in the presence of the Credentials Committee, led by Mr. Henry Umoru and other committee members.
Grace Ike’s Vision for NUJ FCT Council
In her inauguration speech, Grace described her election as a “new dawn” for journalists in the nation’s capital. She pledged to revitalize the NUJ FCT Council through innovative projects aimed at enhancing members’ welfare.
“With immense gratitude and a profound sense of responsibility, I stand before you today as your elected Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council,” she said.
“This moment is both humbling and inspiring, and I thank you sincerely for the trust and confidence you have placed in me. As we begin this journey together, I congratulate the newly elected NUJ National President, Alhaji Yahya Alhassan, his Deputy, and other members of the National Executive Council on their well-deserved victory. 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.”
Grace also expressed gratitude to the women of the council for their support, resilience, and encouragement during her campaign, saying:
“Your courage, determination, and strength were pivotal to this victory. Together, we will continue to inspire and empower one another. As I assume this noble office, I am reminded of the words of John C. Maxwell: ‘A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.’ Guided by these principles, we shall chart a course toward unity, progress, and excellence for our union.”
Past Achievements and Future Goals
Grace Ike, the immediate past Chairperson of the House of Representatives Press Corps and Vice Chairman of the FCT Correspondents Chapel, brings extensive experience to her new role. She has held various positions at Independent Television (ITV) and Silverbird Television.
Adeiza Momohjimoh, Vice President of Zone D, presented certificates of return to the newly elected executives and congratulated them on their unopposed victories.
Grace’s leadership marks a significant milestone for the NUJ FCT Council, as she aims to set a transformative agenda that uplifts the union and its members.
