The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has announced that about 300 journalists benefitted from its medical outreach programme organised as part of activities marking the 2026 Press Week in Abuja.
The Chairman of the council, Grace Ike, disclosed this on Saturday while formally declaring the week open, noting that the initiative was designed to improve the welfare of media professionals who often work under demanding conditions.
The outreach was carried out in collaboration with Nizamiye Hospital, which provided medical services including eye examinations, blood pressure checks, blood sugar tests, general consultations, and pharmaceutical support.
According to Ike, this year’s Press Week carries the theme: “2027 Election: Defending Democracy in the Era of Disinformation,” a reflection of growing concerns about misinformation and fake news as Nigeria approaches the next general elections.
She stressed that journalists must remain committed to truth and professionalism, especially at a time when false information spreads rapidly and threatens public trust in the media.
“The press has a sacred duty to protect truth, defend accountability and preserve the integrity of our democratic process,” she said.
She further warned that in an era where falsehood spreads faster than verified information, journalists must resist pressure, avoid bias, and uphold accuracy in reporting.
Ike explained that the medical outreach was one of several planned activities for the Press Week, which also included training sessions, professional discussions, and engagements focused on journalism ethics, media safety, and public interest reporting.
She added that the programme is intended to strengthen unity among journalists while improving professional capacity across the FCT media space.
“A healthy journalist is better equipped to serve society with excellence,” she said.
The NUJ chair also urged media professionals across the country to recommit themselves to fairness, independence, and responsible journalism, especially as the nation moves closer to the 2027 elections.
She warned that the role of the media would be critical in shaping public perception, holding leaders accountable, and safeguarding democratic processes.
According to her, journalists must not only report events but also help protect the democratic space from manipulation and division.
Speaking on behalf of Nizamiye Hospital, Dr. Uwechukwu Chetachi reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to supporting journalists’ health needs, describing media professionals as essential contributors to national development.
She noted that healthy journalists are more productive and effective in delivering quality information to the public.
