NUJ FCT 2025 carol hails Journalists for truth, peace, development

… as CP Dantawaye assures tight security as festive period approaches

Journalists in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) were celebrated for their vital role in promoting truth, peace, credible governance, and national development at the NUJ FCT Council Christmas Carol, held under the theme “Spreading Truth, Sharing Peace.”

The event brought together media professionals, security agencies, political stakeholders, and partners to reflect on the shared responsibility of nation-building through accurate information, unity, and collaboration.

In a solemn moment during the carol, journalists observed a one-minute silence in honor of the departed

Addressing the gathering, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council Comrade Grace Ike described the theme of the carol “ Spreading truth sharing peace” as a reminder that truth remains a guiding light even in challenging times. She commended journalists for their resilience and professionalism throughout 2025, especially in accountability reporting, justice advocacy, and amplifying voices that promote national development.

“This season reminds us that light prevails even in the darkest night, just as truth continues to shine despite the many challenges we face. We spread truth not to divide, but to heal, unite, and foster peace. We are not just journalists; we are peacemakers,” Ike said.

She also appreciated partners of the union including the CEO of Teen Ambassador who provided free musical equipment and others for their support and expressed optimism for stronger collaboration in 2026, urging journalists to continue sharing peace in their homes, newsrooms, and communities.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, FCT, CP Dantawaye Miller, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustained collaboration with journalists in promoting peace and security across the Territory stressing water tight security during the Christmas period .

“Journalists are like police officers. We go to difficult and dangerous places together, we face risks together, because we share one mission to protect lives, inform the public, and keep society safe,” SP Adeh said.

She described the Christmas Carol as more than a social gathering, noting that it reflected shared values of peace, unity, compassion, and hope. Adding a light moment, she joked about women dominating the choir and hinted that police officers might join the singing in future editions.

Dr. Obinna Simon, SDP AMAC Chairmanship candidate, emphasized the critical role journalists play in ensuring credibility in the Area Council election process.

“In a country as diverse as ours, your professionalism helps Nigerians distinguish facts from falsehoods and gives credibility to the democratic process,” Simon said.

Representing the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, Commander Godwin Ebunu delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, General O.O. Oluyede, AFM.

He congratulated journalists for successfully navigating the year 2025 and assured them of the Armed Forces’ commitment to ensuring a peaceful and secure Yuletide season.

He urged journalists to help propagate the campaign against the use of knockouts during festivities, noting that excessive use makes it difficult to differentiate between celebratory sounds and gunshots.

Hon. Oforji Oboku, Member of the House of Representatives representing Yenagoa/Kolokuma-Opokuma Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education Examination Bodies, in his goodwill message commended the leadership of the council under Comrade Grace Ike for organising the carol service and bringing media professionals together to give thanks to God for an eventful year.

He noted that he was in a state of mourning over the passing of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, but nonetheless reaffirmed his continuous support for the media and their professional endeavours. Hon. Oboku concluded by wishing journalists a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Speaking on behalf of the Managing Director of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Barrister Oluwashio Faleye, Dr. Emmanuel Olaye described the NUJ FCT Council as a strategic partner of the Fund, particularly in promoting the Employee Compensation Scheme.
He commended journalists for their support.

The NUJ FCT Christmas Carol provided a platform for reflection, celebration, and renewed commitment to responsible journalism, security collaboration, and peaceful coexistence.

The Christmas Carol featured musical performances and presentations by media organizations/ Chapels as well as individual performance by some invited artists.

As the year draws to a close, speakers unanimously called for stronger partnerships in 2026, stressing that spreading truth and sharing peace remain central to building a safer, more united, and democratic Nigeria. The event also had the support of Teen Ambassador Foundation Dr Paul Adiwu

The event attracted the presence of former council Chairmen including Comrade Shok Jok, Comrade Abduljelil Adebayo, Chief Comrade Jacob Edi, and Barr Malachy Uzendu. Also in attendance are former Presidents of National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), seasoned broadcasters, press council among others.