By George Ozalla
The Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ, FCT Council, has partnered with Nizamiye Hospital Abuja to organise a medical outreach for journalists at the Council’s Secretariat in Utako District, Abuja last week Saturday.
The exercise, held as part of activities for the 2026 NUJ FCT Press Week, drew journalists from various media organisations across the Federal Capital Territory, who received medical consultations, routine health checks and professional health counselling from medical experts.
During the outreach, participants underwent blood pressure checks, blood sugar tests, eye examinations and other basic medical screenings, while medications were also provided free of charge to beneficiaries.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, stressed the importance of regular health monitoring for media professionals, noting that the nature of journalism often exposes practitioners to stress, fatigue and demanding work schedules.
She further stated that the Council remained committed to the welfare of its members through initiatives designed to support both their professional and personal wellbeing.
According to her, journalists play a critical role in society and must pay closer attention to their health in order to remain effective in the discharge of their responsibilities.
During the exercise, representatives of Nizamiye Hospital explained that the outreach formed part of the hospital’s commitment to preventive healthcare and community service.
They further stressed the need for early medical checks and timely treatment, particularly for professionals whose work environment places them under constant pressure.
The medical team also advised journalists to embrace healthier lifestyles, regular medical examinations and prompt attention to emerging health concerns.
Some of the journalists who benefited from the outreach commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful, especially at a period when many media practitioners rarely create time for routine medical checks.
The outreach formally commenced activities lined up for the 2026 NUJ FCT Press Week, which features a public lecture, mental health walk, quiz competition and awards ceremony and party.
Nizamiye Hospital Abuja is a private healthcare institution widely known for specialized medical services, advanced diagnostic facilities and healthcare interventions.
