By Goodluck Ikiebe in Abuja.
Ms. Grace Ike of Advocate Broadcasting Network (ADBN) has been elected unopposed as the first female Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, 43 years after its inception.
Our correspondent reports that the groundbreaking election emphasizes unity and inclusiveness in the politics of NUJ and an exercise worthy of emulation by other strata of society.
Sworn in on Wednesday, Grace was joined by four other newly elected executives: Mr. Yahaya Ndambabo of Voice of Nigeria (VON) as Vice Chairman, Comrade Jide Oyekunle of Independent Newspaper as Secretary, and Sandra Udeike of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) as Treasurer.
The election, conducted under the supervision of the NUJ National Secretariat, saw a massive turnout of journalists from various media organizations across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The smooth, unopposed election process was a testament to the spirit of collaboration, as members of diverse backgrounds and media houses united to support a leadership that promises inclusivity and progress. Vacant positions will be filled through a by-election in the coming months.
Administering the oath of office, Barr. Ehidiamen Isibor, emphasized the importance of collective leadership, while the Credentials Committee, led by Mr. Henry Umoru, oversaw the smooth transition of power.
In her inaugural address, Ike described her election as a “new dawn” for journalists in the nation’s capital.
She pledged to promote inclusivity, innovation, and the welfare of all members, emphasizing that her administration would prioritize unity and collaboration.
“With immense gratitude and a profound sense of responsibility, I stand before you today as your elected Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council. This moment is both humbling and inspiring, and I thank you sincerely for the trust and confidence you have placed in me,’ she said.
Ike extended congratulations to the newly elected NUJ National President, Alhaji Yahya Alhassan, and the National Executive Council, pledging unwavering support to the national body.
“To the women of this council—those who stood by me with unwavering determination and strength throughout this journey—I offer my heartfelt appreciation. Your courage, resilience, and support were pivotal to this victory. Together, we will continue to inspire and empower one another,” she said, underscoring the importance of women’s contributions to leadership.
Quoting leadership expert John C. Maxwell, Ike stated, “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way,” signaling her commitment to guiding the union toward greater unity and progress.
Adeiza Momohjimoh, Vice President of Zone D, presented the certificates of return to the newly elected officers, congratulating Ike for her historic unopposed victory.
Grace Ike previously served as the Chairperson of the House of Representatives Press Corps and Vice Chairman of the FCT Correspondents Chapel. She has held various roles at Independent Television (ITV) and Silverbird Television, bringing a wealth of experience to her new role as Chairman.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
