… Calls for Press Freedom, Fair Working Conditions for Journalists
By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
As Nigerian workers participate in the 2025 International Workers’ Day, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists,NUJ, Federal Capital Territory ,FCT, Chapter, Comrade Grace Ike, has praised workers for their hard work and dedication to service, while also calling for greater press freedom and better working conditions for journalists.
Comrade Ike in her May Day message, stated that Nigerian workers and
particularly journalists are struggling to survive under the current economic situation in the country.
She said that his year’s theme: “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship”, is apt in the face of the current situation in the country.
She noted that “Workers’ Day is not just a time to honour the value of work, but also a time to recommit ourselves to protecting the civic space, a space where every voice matters, where truth is defended, and where rights are respected.”
Ike highlighted the tough times Nigerian workers are experincing is due to the rising cost of living, job insecurity, and limited opportunities.
The FCT NUJ Chairman warned that these challenges not only affect people’s livelihoods but also threaten the very freedoms that support democracy.
“The media plays a vital role, now more than ever. Journalists must continue to speak out, hold leaders accountable, and protect the voices of the vulnerable.”
“We must defend our press freedom, push back against censorship, and fight for fair treatment at work”, Ike emphasized.
She also urged on sectors from the government to private employers and civil society to support workers by creating better working environments.
“Let’s not allow these economic struggles to take away our rights or silence us. Instead, let our difficulties unite us in building a fairer Nigeria where every worker has a real chance to thrive”, she said.
Grace Ike who is the first woman to lead the NUJ FCT Council, made a strong appeal for unity and a call to action among Nigerian workers.
“On this Workers’ Day, I beacon on the government to employers to stand by us. Let’s protect our freedoms, invest in our people, and turn workers’ sacrifices into real progress for our country”, she stated.
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