Christmas Carol: Over 200 Journalists Grace Occasion as Comrade Ike Preaches Peace, Love, and Unity

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council hosted its highly anticipated 2024 Christmas Carol on Thursday, bringing together over 200 journalists and dignitaries in a vibrant celebration of unity, peace, and love.

In her opening remarks, the NUJ FCT Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, underscored the importance of the Christmas season as a time for reflection, rest, and rejuvenation. She called for greater recognition of journalists’ resilience and dedication, emphasising the need for them to pause, recharge, and prepare to continue their vital roles in promoting national development and global discourse.

“The 2024 NUJ Christmas Carol is a cherished occasion that brings us together in love, joy, and celebration,” Comrade Ike stated. “It is a time to pause amidst the demands of our profession, to come together as a family, and to celebrate the values that bind us—integrity, dedication, and a shared commitment to telling the stories that matter.”

Comrade Ike commended the courage and selflessness of journalists, highlighting their role as custodians of credible and reliable information. She urged the media community to embrace unity, love, and brotherhood, cautioning against actions that could sow discord.

The Carol Night was graced by notable personalities, including the Council Treasurer, Comrade Sandra Udeike; Chairperson of the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) FCT, Mrs Bassey Ita Ikpang; former NAWOJ Presidents, Mrs. Asabe Baba, Mrs. Evelyn Onyilo, and Mrs. Ladi Bala; and former Council Chairmen, Comrades Amos Duniya, AbdulJelil Adebayo, Malachi Uzendu, Chief Jacob Edi, and Paul Ella.

Also in attendance were Barrister Dele Atunbi, former National Treasurer of the NUJ; Comrade Hussaina Banshika, Director of News at FRCN and Deputy President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors; Mr Chris Atte, Head of NTA Abuja; and Mrs Latifat Afegbua, Director at Voice of Nigeria (VON), among others.

The event featured captivating performances by choirs from NTA, NAN, and VON chapels, as well as musical presentations by Teddy Bear, Emilia and Godwin, Richy Rich, Prestine, and Comrade Paul Ella. Classic carols such as The First Noel, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, and Feliz Navidad filled the air, bringing attendees into the festive spirit.

Expressing gratitude for the event’s success, Comrade Ike praised the organising committee for their dedication, stating, “Your efforts have allowed us to relax, reconnect, and recharge for the year ahead.” She further encouraged journalists to uphold the principles of ethical journalism and to foster unity as they navigate the challenges of their profession.

Delivering the vote of thanks, NUJ FCT Council Secretary Comrade Jide Oyekunle expressed appreciation to the performers, attendees, and organisers for making the evening memorable. “The true spirit of Christmas—love, joy, and giving—is what binds us together,” he remarked.