Odita Sunday 
By Odita Sunday
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, will on Saturday commence activities for its 2026 Press Week with a medical outreach programme aimed at promoting the wellbeing of journalists and members of the public.
The week-long event, scheduled for May 16 to May 22, is themed: “2027 Election: Defending Nigeria’s Democracy in the Age of Disinformation.”
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Obas Esiedesa, and the Secretary, Queen Kunde, the council said the annual Press Week would feature a series of activities focused on responsible journalism, democratic accountability, and healthy living.
According to the organisers, activities lined up for the celebration include a medical outreach at the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Utako on Saturday, May 16, and a “Walk for Mental Health” from Julius Berger Roundabout to the NUJ Secretariat on Monday, May 18.
The statement added that the highlight of the event would be the Public Lecture and Awards Ceremony slated for Tuesday, May 19, at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, with over 1,000 participants expected to attend.
Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago, is expected to chair the lecture, while former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, will serve as co-chairman.
The organisers also disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police and other prominent political figures, media executives, and stakeholders from different sectors are expected at the event.
Former member of the House of Representatives, Ndudi Elumelu, is billed to deliver the keynote address.
The council said the awards ceremony would recognise outstanding journalists and notable Nigerians for excellence, professionalism, and contributions to national development.
As part of its community-focused initiatives, the NUJ FCT Council said it had partnered with Nizamiye Hospital to provide free medical checks and consultations for journalists and residents during the outreach programme.
Other activities scheduled for the week include a Secondary School Press Club Quiz Competition on May 21 and a grand finale/jeans party on May 22 at the NUJ Secretariat in Utako.
Speaking ahead of the event, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Grace Ike, urged journalists and stakeholders to participate actively in all activities.
She described the 2026 Press Week as “a week of impact, reflection, celebration, and professional excellence,” adding that the council remained committed to promoting ethical journalism, democratic values, and national unity.
About the Author
