NUJ FCT Council Elects First Female Chairman in 43 Years

By Stella Okoh-Esene

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 since its inception 43 years ago.

Elected and sworn in on Wednesday, Grace leads a new executive team, including Mr. Yahaya Ndambabo of Voice of Nigeria (VON) as Vice Chairman, Comrade Jide Oyekunle of Independent Newspaper as Secretary, and Sandra Udeike of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) as Treasurer.

The unopposed election was conducted under tight security by officials from the NUJ National Secretariat and saw an impressive turnout of journalists from various media organizations and chapels within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The newly elected officials will serve a three-year term, with vacant positions set to be filled through a by-election. Barr. Ehidiamen Isibor administered the oath of office, supervised by the Credentials Committee, chaired by Mr. Henry Umoru.

“A New Dawn”

In her inauguration speech, Grace Ike described her election as a “new dawn” for journalists in the FCT, pledging to focus on innovative projects that will directly improve 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. This moment is both humbling and inspiring, and I sincerely thank you for the trust and confidence you have placed in me,” she said.

She also congratulated the newly elected NUJ National President, Alhaji Yahya Alhassan, and pledged the FCT Council’s support to strengthen the ideals of journalism.

Speaking to her fellow women, Grace expressed gratitude for their unwavering support, calling for continued collaboration 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.’ With these words as our guide, we shall chart a course toward unity, progress, and excellence for our union,” she affirmed.

Trailblazer in Journalism

Grace Ike, the immediate past Chairperson of the House of Representatives Press Corps and Vice Chairman of the FCT Correspondents Chapel, has had a distinguished career in journalism. She has worked with Independent Television (ITV) and Silverbird Television in various capacities, earning respect as a trailblazer in the industry.

Vice President Zone D, Adeiza Momohjimoh, who presented certificates of return to the new executives, commended Grace Ike for running an unopposed campaign, reflecting the overwhelming support she enjoys among journalists in the FCT.

Her leadership marks a significant milestone in the history of the NUJ FCT Council, ushering in a new era of inclusivity and progress.

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