By George Ozalla
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has called for urgent and sustained action to tackle insecurity and poverty, describing both as major threats to decent work and national productivity.
In a statement to mark the 2026 Workers’ Day, Ike said the theme of this year’s celebration, Insecurity and Poverty: Bane of Decent Work, reflects the harsh realities faced by workers across the country, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory.
She noted that journalists and media professionals operate within a challenging environment where safety risks remain high, even as they continue to inform the public and hold authorities accountable. She commended members of the NUJ FCT Council for their resilience and commitment to ethical journalism despite prevailing conditions.
According to her, persistent insecurity not only endangers lives but also limits access to information and affects the ability of journalists to perform their duties effectively. She added that rising poverty and economic pressure continue to impact workers’ welfare, morale, and overall well-being.
The NUJ FCT Chairman urged governments at all levels to intensify efforts toward improving national security and implementing policies that directly address poverty, stressing that a safe working environment and economic opportunities are essential for achieving decent work.
She also charged media organisations and employers in the FCT to prioritise the welfare of journalists through fair remuneration, better working conditions, insurance coverage, and continuous professional development.
Ike further called on union members to strengthen solidarity and sustain advocacy for the rights, safety, and dignity of workers, while maintaining professionalism and accountability in their duties.
She encouraged journalists and workers in the territory to remain steadfast and committed, expressing confidence that collective effort and purposeful engagement would help build a safer and more equitable society.
