NUJ FCT Council Holds Night of Tribute for Departed Colleagues

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, held a solemn night of tribute in honour of four of its departed colleagues Victor Olusegun, Elder Isiah Abraham, Rafat Idris Salami, and Ogunnaya Regina Umerham.

The event, which took place at the council’s premises in Utako, Abuja, attracted an impressive turnout of journalists, union leaders, and other dignitaries, reflecting the immense respect and admiration the departed journalists commanded within the media community.

In her remarks, Comrade Grace Ike, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, described the night as an opportunity to celebrate the lives and legacies of the deceased. “These four individuals were not just members of our union; they were pillars in their own right, shaping the profession with their dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to truth and justice,” she said.

Comrade Ike emphasised the importance of unity within the journalism community, urging members to support one another in the challenging profession. “As we remember our departed colleagues, let us also remember to stand together, protect one another, and continue to uphold the ethics of journalism that they so passionately defended,” she added.

In attendance were the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, the National President of the NUJ Alhassan Yahaya, former president of the NUJ comrade Chris Isiguzo who is currently President congress of African journalists, Dr. Mrs Abimbola Oyetunde National Deputy President of the NUJ, Deputy National President, Dr Abimbola Oyetunde, Director News FRCN Husseina Akila Bangshika, former chairmen of the FCT Council, former chairpersons of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ),l and a arge gathering of journalists from various media organisations.

Speaking at the event, the National President of the NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya praised the professionalism, dedication, and integrity exemplified by the late journalists during their lifetimes. He described them as “beacons of excellence and tireless contributors to the journalism profession in Nigeria.”

The former president Dr Chris Isiguzo described Late Rafat as a journalist per excellence who will be missed . He appealed to journalists to make periodic checks a priority despite their busy schedule

The Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, Baba Jibrin Ndace, in his remarks, extolled the virtues of the late Rafat Salami, noting her significant contributions to the operational efficiency of Voice of Nigeria, the International Press Institute, and the advancement of the media landscape.

The night was marked by emotional tributes, with colleagues and friends recounting fond memories and the impactful legacies left behind by the departed. Their contributions to journalism and their roles in mentoring younger colleagues were particularly highlighted.

The event concluded with a candlelight procession and prayers for the repose of their souls, as attendees reaffirmed their commitment to supporting one another and advancing the cause of journalism in Nigeria.

The solemn gathering served as a poignant reminder of the fragile nature of life and the need for camaraderie among media practitioners in their demanding profession.