Odita Sunday 
May Day: NUJ FCT chairman raises alarm over insecurity, poverty, demands urgent reforms
By Odita Sunday
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Grace Ike, has called for urgent and sustained action to tackle insecurity and poverty, warning that both challenges continue to undermine decent work and threaten the dignity of labour in Nigeria.
In a statement to mark International Workers’ Day, Ike described this year’s theme, “Insecurity and Poverty: Bane of Decent Work,” as timely and reflective of the harsh realities confronting workers, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory.
She noted that journalists and media professionals operate in a highly complex and often unsafe environment, where security risks and economic pressures continue to affect their productivity and welfare.
“In the FCT, journalists and media professionals operate within this complex environment, often facing safety risks while striving to inform, educate, and hold power to account,” she said.
The NUJ leader commended members of the union for their resilience and dedication to ethical journalism despite the prevailing challenges.
She warned that persistent insecurity not only endangers lives but also restricts access to information and hampers effective media practice.
“At the same time, poverty and rising economic pressures continue to affect the welfare, morale, and overall well-being of workers,” Ike added.
She called on government at all levels to intensify efforts towards improving national security and implementing policies that directly address poverty.
“Ensuring a safe working environment and providing economic opportunities are fundamental to achieving decent work for all Nigerians,” she stated.
Ike also urged media organisations to prioritise the welfare of journalists through fair remuneration, improved working conditions, insurance coverage, and access to professional development.
She emphasised the need for stronger union solidarity and advocacy to protect workers’ rights and dignity.
“As a union, we must strengthen our solidarity and continue to advocate for the rights, safety, and dignity of our members,” she said.
About the Author
