By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, FCT Chapter on Wednesday made history when Comrade Grace Ike, emerged as the first female in a peaceful election held at the FCT Council in Utako, Abuja.
Comrade Ike, a practicing journalist at
Advocate Broadcasting Network , ADBN, is the 17th NUJ- FCT Chairperson, after 16 chairmen.
Ike’s got a total of 445 votes from a stream of journalists who stormed the council to cast their votes for their preferred candidate .
In her inaugural speech, Comrade Ike promised to mull efforts that making dream of having a journalists village a reality in the nation’s Capital.
She also pledged her readiness to work with her executive members to revolutionize FCT- NUJ council, consolidate and improve on the feats attained by her predecessors in the area of welfare, transparency, and accountability.
Furthermore, she said, top on her list is enrolment of members in the health insurance scheme, give the council a face lift, check quakery in the journalism profession and prioritise capacity building of members.
“As I assume this noble office, I am guided by the timeless words of John C. Maxwell: “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” With this wisdom, we will navigate a path toward unity, progress, and excellence for our union.”
“As I take on this responsibility, I call on every member of the NUJ FCT Council to join hands with us. This administration is not about me; it belongs to all of us… ….the road ahead may be challenging, but with unity, determination, and faith, it will be rewarding.”
The welfare of our members remains the cornerstone of this administration. From affordable health insurance schemes to empowerment initiatives, every member will feel the positive impact of our leadership, Ike emphasized.
Other winners at the election were Comrade Ndambabo Yahaya, Vice Chairman of NUJ FCT Council after polling 444 votes, Comrade Jide Oyekunle polled a total of 447 votes as Secretary, while Udeike Sandra of FRCN Headquarters, was elected Treasurer with 444 votes.
The election was presided by the chairman of the Credentials Committee, Comrade Henry Umoru, and supervised by the Vice President of NUJ Zone D, Comrade Adeiza Momoh Jimoh, National Secretary NUJ Zone D, Comrade Dauda Mohammed, Onyebuchi Nze Assistant National Secretary 2 and Akorede Opeyemi Assistant National Secretary 1.
