NUJ FCT Unveils 2025 Press Week, Press Freedom, and Civic Engagement , Medical Outreach Top on the Agenda.
By Raymond Enoch
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has officially announced the commencement of its highly anticipated 2025 Press Week, scheduled to hold from Friday, July 18 to Friday, July 25, 2025. The annual event, which celebrates the vital role of the media in society, will feature a week-long series of activities aimed at fostering professional excellence, deepening public discourse, and promoting press freedom in Nigeria.
This is contained in a press release signed by the NUJ FCT Secretary, Conrade Jide Oyekunle, who emphasized the union’s commitment to promoting ethical journalism, defending democratic values, and improving the welfare of journalists within and beyond the FCT.
This year’s theme, “Journalism in a Changing World: Media, Press Freedom, Democracy & Society,” reflects the dynamic nature of the media landscape in the digital age, and the pivotal role of journalism in protecting democratic ideals, particularly in the face of technological disruption, misinformation, and political pressure.
The 2025 Press Week is designed not just as a celebration but as a platform for reflection, education, and engagement among media professionals, policymakers, civil society, and the general public.
The event lineup begins on Friday, July 18, with a special Muslim prayer session at NASFAT Mosque, Utako, starting at 2:00 p.m. This interfaith dimension continues on Sunday, July 20, with a Thanksgiving Service at Word Harvest Church, Jikwoyi, beginning at 9:00 a.m., emphasizing the importance of spiritual grounding for journalists who often work under intense pressure.
On Saturday, July 19, there will be a free medical check-up for journalists at the NUJ FCT Secretariat in Utako, starting from 9:00 a.m. This initiative underscores the Council’s commitment to the health and wellbeing of media practitioners, many of whom operate in demanding and high-risk environments.
One of the most symbolic activities of the week, the ‘Walk for Press Freedom,’ is scheduled for Monday, July 21 at 7:00 a.m.. Participants will gather at the VIO Office, Berger Roundabout, to walk in solidarity for the defense of press freedoms — a right that continues to face threats across various parts of the world, including Nigeria.
The high point of the celebration will take place on Tuesday, July 22, with a public lecture at the prestigious Borno Rivers Hall, Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, starting at 9:00 a.m. The event will feature a keynote address by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), H.E. Barrister Nyesom Wike, CON, and a keynote lecture by H.E. Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, PhD, GCON, Speaker of the House of Representatives.
The lecture will be chaired by H.E. Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, former Governor of Nasarawa State and a strong advocate of democratic governance. This session is expected to attract leaders from across the media, political, and academic spaces for an engaging discourse on the future of journalism in Nigeria and globally.
The week’s activities will continue on Thursday, July 24, with a community service outreach and the inauguration of Press Clubs in select institutions. These initiatives are designed to inspire a new generation of media professionals by introducing young people to journalistic ethics, critical thinking, and public service values.
The celebrations will come to a close on Friday, July 25, with a Grand Finale and Jeans Party, starting at 3:00 p.m. at the NUJ FCT Secretariat in Utako. This informal gathering will provide members an opportunity to unwind, network, and celebrate their shared identity as custodians of truth and public accountability.
The NUJ FCT Council has extended an open invitation to journalists, media practitioners, government officials, development partners, and members of the public to participate in the various events throughout the week. According to the Council, the Press Week is not only a moment to celebrate journalism but also a platform to deepen civic engagement and strengthen democratic dialogue in Nigeria.
In concluding the press statement, Conrade Jide Oyekunle reaffirmed the NUJ FCT Council’s unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, defending freedom of expression, and advancing the welfare of journalists.
“In an era of constant change, disinformation, and media repression, this year’s Press Week is not just symbolic — it is necessary. We must continue to defend the truth, empower our colleagues, and preserve journalism as the bedrock of democracy,” Oyekunle stated.
As the NUJ FCT Council embarks on this reflective and festive week, the Nigerian media community prepares to reaffirm its purpose, strengthen its bonds, and recommit itself to the noble calling of journalism.
