Taiwo Popoola
A newscaster with Advocate Broadcasting Network, ADBN, Grace Ike has emerged as the first female chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, FCT Council, 43 years after its establishment.
Grace was elected and sworn in on Wednesday alongside four other executive members, including Mr Yahaya Ndambabo of Voice of Nigeria, VON, as Vice Chairman; Jide Oyekunle of Independent Newspaper as Secretary; and Sandra Udeike of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, as Treasurer.
The unopposed election was conducted by officials from the National Secretariat of the NUJ under tight security with a massive turnout of journalists from various media organisations and chapels in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
The newly elected officials will pilot the affairs of the union for the next three years in the FCT while the vacant positions will be filled through a by-election.
The oath of office was administered by Ehidiamen Isibor, Esq., under the watch of the Credentials Committee led by Mr. Henry Umoru and members of the committee.
In her inauguration speech, Grace said her election marks a ‘new dawn’ for journalists in the nation’s capital, noting that she aims to reposition the NUJ FCT Council through innovative projects that would impact directly on the welfare of members.
“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.
“As we begin this journey together, let me start by congratulating the newly elected NUJ National President, Alhaji Yahya Alhassan, his deputy, and other members of the National Executive Council on their well-deserved victory.
“Your emergence symbolises a new chapter and I pledge the unwavering support of the FCT Council as we work collaboratively to strengthen the ideals of our profession.
“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, and I am forever grateful. Together, we will continue to inspire and empower one another.
“As I assume this noble office, I am reminded of the words of John C. Maxwell: “A leader knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” With these words as our guide, we shall chart a course toward unity, progress, and excellence for our union,” Ike said.
Adeiza Momohjimoh, Vice President Zone D, who presented the certificates of return to the chairman, congratulated her for returning unopposed.
Grace was the immediate past Chairperson of the House of Representatives Press Corps and Vice Chairman of the FCT Correspondents Chapel.
She has worked in various capacities and at various times at Independent Television, ITV, and Silverbird Television.
