By Chioma Vivian James
The 2026 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, commenced on a remarkable and compassionate note as Nizamiye Hospital partnered with the Council to provide free medical checks and consultations for journalists at the NUJ Secretariat in Utako, Abuja.
The medical outreach, which attracted scores of journalists and media professionals, was widely applauded as a timely intervention aimed at promoting the health and wellbeing of practitioners who often work under intense pressure and demanding conditions.
Beneficiaries described the initiative as not only impactful but life-saving, noting that access to free medical screening and professional healthcare consultations would help in the early detection and management of health challenges among journalists.
Many members who participated in the exercise expressed profound appreciation to Nizamiye Hospital for bringing quality healthcare services directly to the journalism community at no cost.
The initiative also received widespread commendation for reflecting the welfare-driven leadership of the NUJ FCT Council Chairman, whose commitment to members’ wellbeing has continued to earn praise from stakeholders within and outside the media industry.
Mr. Paul Effiong, a member of the Council, commended the leadership style of the Chairman, describing his commitment to members’ welfare and the success of the Press Week as commendable.
According to him:
“Your efforts and leadership are truly commendable. Thank you for your dedication and commitment towards making this year’s Press Week a success.”
As journalists continued to troop into the Secretariat for the ongoing exercise, the atmosphere was filled with gratitude and excitement, with many describing the initiative as a reflection of purposeful leadership that goes beyond occupying office to touching lives and restoring hope.
The free medical outreach officially kick-started the week-long activities lined up for the 2026 NUJ FCT Press Week themed:
“2027 Election: Defending Nigeria’s Democracy in the Age of Disinformation.”
The theme is expected to drive conversations around media ethics, fake news, misinformation, democratic accountability, and the critical role of journalists ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Among the major activities scheduled for the Press Week is the “Walk for Mental Health,” billed for Monday, May 18, aimed at promoting awareness on mental wellness among journalists and the larger society.
The Council will also host a high-profile Public Lecture and Awards Day on Tuesday, May 19, expected to attract top government officials, media executives, political leaders, civil society actors, and key stakeholders in Nigeria’s democratic process.
The event will feature Governor Mohammed Bago as Chairman of the lecture, while former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje is expected to serve as Co-Chairman. Former member of the House of Representatives, Ndudi Elumelu, will deliver the keynote address on the evolving role of the media in safeguarding democracy in an era dominated by disinformation and digital manipulation.
Other activities lined up for the celebration include a Secondary School Press Club Quiz Competition on Thursday, May 21, designed to encourage young talents and promote journalism ethics among students.
The week-long celebration will culminate in a colourful Grand Finale/Jean Party on Friday, May 22, at the NUJ Secretariat, Utako, Abuja.
The 2026 Press Week will also serve as an opportunity to honour outstanding journalists and distinguished Nigerians who have made significant contributions to national development, media professionalism, democratic growth, and public service.
Observers say the strong turnout and positive reactions recorded during the medical outreach have already set a positive tone for what promises to be one of the most impactful and memorable editions of the NUJ FCT Press Week in recent years.