Newspaper Vendors hail NUJ-FCT progress under Grace Ike

The Newspaper Vendors Association of Nigeria, Abuja chapter, has applauded the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, for its remarkable achievements under the leadership of Comrade Grace Ike, less than a year into her tenure.

The commendation was made during a courtesy visit by the association’s Board of Trustees, led by its Chairman, Mr. Edmund Arikpo, to the NUJ-FCT Council Secretariat in Utako, Abuja. During the visit, the association presented Comrade Ike with a symbolic gift of honour in recognition of her leadership qualities and outstanding service.

Arikpo praised Comrade Ike’s humility, compassion, and people-oriented leadership style, which he said have already begun yielding positive results within the union and the broader journalism community.

“We have come to identify with you, ma. One thing I’ve noticed and sincerely admire is your humility. It is rare and truly inspiring,” Arikpo said.

Highlighting the challenges currently confronting newspaper vendors, Arikpo expressed concern over the growing impact of digitization on the print media distribution chain. According to him, the proliferation of smartphones and online news platforms has significantly affected newspaper sales, pushing many vendors out of the business.

“I’ve been in the newspaper vending business since 1996. Through this work, I’ve been able to build a home and raise a family. But with the rise of digital media, many of our members can no longer survive in the business. Some have had to leave entirely; others have returned to their villages,” he lamented.

Arikpo urged vendors to remain resilient and consider diversifying their sources of income while calling on publishers to adopt a more balanced approach by regulating early online publication of stories to protect the livelihood of vendors.

“We’re not against publishers making money online, but they must also consider the welfare of those who ensure the physical distribution of their papers across the country. That’s where the sales come from.”

In her response, Comrade Grace Ike expressed deep appreciation for the association’s show of support and emphasized the importance of collaboration between vendors and journalists in advancing the media profession.

“We are partners in progress. Never forget, vendors and journalists are two sides of the same coin. In whatever way you think we can work together or support each other, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can continue to uphold the values of journalism in Nigeria,” she said.

Addressing the economic struggles faced by newspaper vendors, Comrade Ike acknowledged their critical role in the media value chain and encouraged them to stay hopeful and persistent despite technological disruptions.

“Technology may be evolving, but print media still holds significant value. People still cherish tangible newspapers for archiving and deep reading. We recognize your contributions and want you to know the media cannot thrive without your input,” she affirmed.

She therefore reiterated her commitment to fostering synergy between the union and the vendors’ association, emphasizing their shared responsibility in preserving and promoting the journalism profession in Nigeria.