NUJ FCT Council urges improved security, water supply, commends Wike for infrastructure strides

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter has called on the government to improve basic services across the FCT, especially to deal with rising insecurity, water shortages, and the reckless cutting down of trees.

This was part of a communique signed by the chairman of Council, Comrade Grace Ike and Secretary of Council, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, after the union’s Congress held on 31 May 2025 at the Council Secretariat in Utako, Abuja.

The union also praised the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for his work on roads and the new bus terminals in Abuja.

Journalists at the gathering highlighted the urgent need for empowerment and support, especially as the current administration commemorate its second year in office. They noted with concern the rising economic hardship facing media practitioners, many of whom are now unable to afford their children’s school fees, leading to an increase in out-of-school children among journalists’ families.

The Congress also expressed dissatisfaction with the Federal Capital Territory Water Board over the lack of water supply in parts of the FCT, including Kado Estate. Members urged the agency to swiftly address the situation, stressing that access to clean water is a basic human necessity.

Commending the leadership of the NUJ FCT Council Executive Committee, journalists acknowledged ongoing efforts to reposition the union and prioritise members’ welfare. They stated that the EXCO’s programmes have provided some relief amid the prevailing economic challenges.

In an environmental appeal, the Union urged FCT development authorities to halt the indiscriminate felling of trees and instead initiate aggressive tree-planting campaigns to combat climate change. The Council also called for cleaner and safer pedestrian walkways across the territory.

A vote of commendation was unanimously passed for the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, in recognition of his infrastructural interventions and visible developments within the capital city.

However, concerns were raised over the deteriorating condition of the Council’s Congress Hall. Members expressed fears over the safety of continued use of the structure and called for urgent rehabilitation to prevent potential hazards.

Journalists working with privately owned media organisations also used the platform to decry poor remuneration and harsh working conditions. They called on media owners to either improve staff welfare or suspend operations until they are financially capable of meeting industry standards.

In conclusion, the NUJ FCT Council called on the relevant authorities to declare a state of emergency on security in the Federal Capital Territory, citing the growing insecurity and the urgent need for a coordinated response to protect lives and property.