NUJ FCT Council Urges Action on Security, Water Crisis — Commends Wike’s Administration Infrastructure Drive.
By Raymond Enoch
By Raymond Enoch
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has issued a strong call to action urging government authorities to swiftly address worsening insecurity, persistent water shortages, and environmental degradation across the nation’s capital.
The call came in a communique released following the NUJ FCT Congress held on May 31, 2025, at the Council Secretariat in Utako, Abuja.
Signed by Council Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, and Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, the communique spotlighted the increasing threats faced by residents, including journalists, due to rising insecurity and a failing water supply system — particularly in areas like Kado Estate.
The Congress also praised the infrastructural efforts of FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, especially the construction of roads and establishment of modern bus terminals that have improved mobility and the city’s aesthetic outlook. A unanimous vote of commendation was passed in his honour for what the union described as “visible and impactful” development strides.
Despite the commendation, journalists did not shy away from highlighting serious concerns plaguing the territory. They raised the alarm over the dire economic situation of media practitioners, with many reportedly struggling to pay their children’s school fees — a trend contributing to the growing number of out-of-school children within the journalism community.
In a direct appeal, the Council urged the FCT Water Board to restore regular water supply and to treat access to clean water as a non-negotiable human right. The Congress also condemned the indiscriminate felling of trees in the capital and called for aggressive reforestation and cleaner pedestrian pathways.
Furthermore, journalists expressed dismay over the dilapidated state of the NUJ Congress Hall, warning that the deteriorating condition poses a risk to lives and must be urgently addressed.
The Council equally called out privately owned media organisations for what they described as exploitative work conditions and poor staff remuneration. Delegates urged media proprietors to either enhance worker welfare or halt operations until they can meet fair labour standards.
As Nigeria’s current administration marks its second year in office, the NUJ FCT Council concluded its Congress with a bold appeal to government: declare a state of emergency on security in the FCT and take immediate, coordinated action to protect lives and restore public confidence.
