May Day: Grace Ike salutes workers, demands Press Freedom, fair conditions

As Nigerians join the rest of the world to mark International Workers’ Day, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Comrade Grace Ike, has praised the hard work and dedication of workers, while also calling for greater press freedom and better working conditions for journalists.

In her May Day message, Ike spoke about the struggles many workers — especially journalists — are facing due to the current economic situation. She echoed this year’s theme: “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship.”

“Workers’ Day is not just a time to honour the value of work, but also a time to recommit ourselves to protecting the civic space — a space where every voice matters, where truth is defended, and where rights are respected,” she said.

Ike highlighted the tough times Nigerian workers are going through, mentioning the rising cost of living, job insecurity, and limited opportunities. She warned that these challenges not only affect people’s livelihoods but also threaten the very freedoms that support democracy.

“The media plays a vital role, now more than ever. Journalists must continue to speak out, hold leaders accountable, and protect the voices of the vulnerable,” she said. “We must defend press freedom, push back against censorship, and fight for fair treatment at work.”

She also called on all sectors — from the government to private employers and civil society — to support workers by creating better working environments.

Comrade Grace Ike and the National President of NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Abdullahi

“Let’s not allow these economic struggles to take away our rights or silence us,” she urged. “Instead, let our difficulties unite us in building a fairer Nigeria where every worker has a real chance to thrive.”

As the first woman to lead the NUJ FCT Council, Grace Ike ended her message with a strong appeal for unity and action.

“On this Workers’ Day, I ask everyone — from the government to employers — to stand by us. Let’s protect our freedoms, invest in our people, and turn workers’ sacrifices into real progress for our country.”