Senator Al-Makura to Chair NUJ FCT Press Week, Pledges Support for Free Press.
By Raymond Enoch
Former Governor of Nasarawa State, Senator, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, has accepted an invitation to chair the 2025 Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Press Week, describing journalists as “frontline workers in the quest for justice and national development.”
Senator Al-Makura made this known on Wednesday when he received the NUJ FCT Council executive in his office during a courtesy visit. The team, led by NUJ FCT Chairman Comrade Grace Ike, formally invited him to preside over the event set to hold on July 22, 2025, at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.
Al-Makura, who began his career in broadcast journalism with the defunct Broadcasting Corporation of Northern Nigeria (BCNN), now Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), reflected on his media background with pride.
“I am happy for the recognition. I started as an Assistant Producer for News and Current Affairs, and I know firsthand the pivotal role the media plays in shaping society,” he said.
“Journalists are the watchdogs of democracy, and I will honor the invitation because of my enduring love for the media.”
He further expressed unwavering support for the profession, pledging to champion media advancement and freedom.
In her remarks, Comrade Grace Ike praised Senator Al-Makura’s sterling record in public service, saying his leadership as chairman will energize the media community and reinforce the core values of journalism in Nigeria.
“This year’s theme — ‘Journalism in a Changing World: Press Freedom, Media, Democracy and Society’ — reflects the pressing challenges and evolving role of the media in our democracy,” Ike stated.
The Press Week aims to provide a platform for dialogue on the future of journalism in a rapidly transforming world, with a focus on media freedom, transparency, and democratic resilience.
High profile dignitaries in government , Diplomats and media Professionals from across the country are expected to attend the event.
