Former NUJ FCT chairmen attend Congress, pledge support for Grace Ike-led exco

Seven past Chairmen of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter on 31st of May 2025 attended the union’s Congress to show their support for the current leadership of Comrade Grace Ike. They all signed the attendance register, marking a rare and strong show of unity.

The former Chairmen present were Comrade Ndamadu Sule, Comrade Shok Jok, Comrade Amos Dunia, Comrade AbdulJelil Adebayo, Comrade Malachy Uzendu, Comrade Jacob Edi, and Comrade Paul Ella Abechi.

This was the first time the Council saw so many ex-Chairmen gather in support, encouraging members to stay firm and united behind to build a better union that will be the envy of many

Speaking on behalf of the leaders, Comrade Shok Jok—who has also served as Secretary and Chairman of the Council—shared his thoughts on the current leadership. He praised Comrade Grace Ike led exco for ensuring an all inclusive administration urging members to give them the necessary support to serve.

He also commended the leadership of comrade Ike for deeming it fit to bring former chairmen together noting that it was the first of its kind in the history of the union and promised that they will unite and support her administration in the interest of members

Comrade Shok stressed that the gesture of the current exco to bring them together which has never happened, is a testament of true leadership and as elders they are happy as proud parents who want their children to surpass what they did.

“I am happy that comrade Grace is doing very well and we must all support her leadership. She didn’t embarrass us by bringing us together, I will rather say she has done what every proud parent will want their children to do by surpassing them” he added

“We want to pledge that as former chairmen of council we will continue to support her administration and provide guidance where necessary”

“Although I have not been attending congress physically since my term ended, but my wife keeps me updated because she is a dedicated member.

“On behalf of the former chairmen of council I want to use this medium to say thank you to the Grace Ike led exco for deeming it fit to bring us together which has never happened in the history of the union and urge us all to support them because they are doing well.

“By Gods Grace we will continue to stand by you and give you our support throughout your tenure and so I appeal to this full House to do the same.

“I am happy you all voted her in and we will support her “ he added.

He highlighted the progress and fresh ideas she has brought to the Council and encouraged everyone to continue supporting her, recognising that while no one is perfect, encouragement and unity will help her succeed.

Highpoint of the congress was the signing of the attendance register by the seven former chairmen which has never happened in the history of the NUJ FCT Council.

Sharon Emephia