By Queen Kunde
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has issued a rallying call for urgent government action to tackle rising insecurity, worsening water shortages, and environmental degradation in the nation’s capital even as it commends Minister Nyesom Wike for infrastructure improvements.
In a communique released after its Congress held on May 31 at the NUJ Secretariat in Utako, Abuja, the Council urged relevant authorities to declare a state of emergency on security in the FCT, citing growing threats to the safety of residents and journalists alike.
Signed by NUJ FCT Chairman Comrade Grace Ike and Secretary Comrade Jide Oyekunle, the document also decried the failure of the FCT Water Board to provide adequate water supply to communities such as Kado Estate. The union stressed that clean water remains a basic human right and should not be denied.
While calling for greater accountability in public services, the Congress unanimously passed a vote of commendation to FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, hailing his ongoing infrastructural interventions particularly road development and the new bus terminals which they described as “visible signs of progress.”
The union also voiced deep concern over the economic plight of journalists, especially in privately owned media outfits. Many practitioners, the Congress noted, are unable to meet basic family obligations like school fees, fueling a disturbing rise in out-of-school children.
“Media owners must either improve working conditions or suspend operations until they can meet industry standards,” the union declared.
On the environmental front, NUJ members condemned the reckless cutting of trees across Abuja, urging the FCT Administration to launch a large-scale tree-planting campaign and improve pedestrian walkways to enhance public safety and environmental health.
Attention was also drawn to the deplorable state of the NUJ Congress Hall, with members demanding urgent renovation over safety concerns.
Despite the challenges, the union lauded the NUJ FCT Executive Committee for efforts to reposition the council and provide relief for members amid harsh economic conditions.
The Congress ended with a firm call for coordinated government action, warning that continued neglect of core infrastructure, safety, and welfare needs threatens the stability and well-being of both journalists and the wider FCT populace.