NUJ FCT Council hosts maiden Sallah Sit-Out in Grand Style

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, held its first-ever Sallah Sit-Out on Saturday, 7th June 2025, an event that marked a significant milestone in the history of the Council.

The occasion commenced with an opening prayer led by Ustaz Muhtar Kassim, followed by welcome remarks from the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, who stated:

“HAZA YAUMUL EID-AL MUBARAK
Assalam Alaikum.
May Allah (SWT) accept our prayers and sacrifices on this blessed day of Eid. May He grant us forgiveness, peace, and prosperity. May our faith be strengthened, and our unity be fostered. Eid Mubarak to you and yours.
Taqqabbal Allahu minna wa minkum, May Allah accept it from us and from you.”

A special Sallah message was then delivered by Mukhtar Kassim, a journalist with Atar Communications, owners of Liberty TV and Radio, Abuja.

Addressing members of the NUJ FCT Council and invited guests, Kassim reflected on the essence of Eid and its relevance to national cohesion. He emphasised the importance of sacrifice, compassion, gratitude, and unity, core values of Islam that also resonate with broader human ideals.

He said, “Eid, whether al-Fitr or al-Adha, is a time to renew our bond with God and reaffirm our commitment to one another and to society. In a diverse nation like Nigeria, religious festivals should serve as bridges of understanding, not wedges of division.”

Kassim challenged journalists to use their platforms to foster tolerance, truth, and shared national identity.

“As the conscience of the nation, journalists must shape narratives that promote peaceful coexistence. Tolerance is not only a moral imperative, it is a developmental strategy. Just like a symphony where different instruments play in harmony to produce music, Nigeria’s strength lies in unity through diversity,” he noted.

He concluded by urging all Nigerians, Muslims and Christians alike, to uphold the spirit of Eid throughout the year in pursuit of a more united and prosperous nation.

“Let us recommit ourselves to mutual respect and collective progress. Only together can we unlock Nigeria’s full potential. Eid Mubarak to all,” he concluded.

The occasion continued with entertainment and refreshments, as attendees were treated to a variety of well-prepared ram delicacies. The atmosphere was informal and festive, providing ample opportunity for journalists to relax, network, and bond in a convivial setting at the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat.

The event was graced by eminent figures in the Union, including former NUJ FCT Council Chairmen, Comrade Amos Dunia, Comrade Abdul Jehill, and Comrade Paul Ella. Also in attendance were Comrade Evelyn Onyilo, former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT Chapter, and Comrade Bolanle Ukpevo, Vice Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT, as well as various chapel leaders and members from across the Federal Capital Territory.

The Sit-Out officially came to a close at 4:05 p.m. with a vote of thanks delivered by the Assistant Secretary of Council, Comrade Sharon Emephia, on behalf of the NUJ FCT Council Executive Committee.

It was indeed a Sallah to remember, one defined by reflection, unity, joy, and camaraderie among journalists in the FCT.