By Nafisat Makinde
Hon. Leke Joseph Abejide, Chairman of the House Committee on Customs and Excise, has donated five floor-standing air conditioners to the FCT Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). The donation was made during the NUJ FCT’s first-ever Easter Cantata concert on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, where Hon. Abejide was the guest speaker.
During his address, Hon. Abejide emphasized the crucial role journalists play in reporting government activities and societal issues, stating that “the media is very important to everything we do.” He noted that the current NUJ FCT Secretariat is not conducive for journalists’ work and pledged to support initiatives that enhance their working conditions.
The donated air conditioners are expected to improve the working environment for NUJ members. NUJ National President Alhassan Yahya appreciated the gesture and requested Hon. Abejide’s support for a bill aimed at enhancing journalists’ working conditions. Yahya highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to improve the welfare and working conditions of journalists across the country.
NUJ FCT Chairman Comrade Grace Ike welcomed the donation, highlighting its benefits, including boosting morale and engagement, strengthening team cohesion, facilitating networking, and encouraging innovation. She noted that the union will continue to work on innovative projects and strategies to improve members’ welfare.
Hon. Abejide assured the House of Representatives’ support for initiatives that promote better working conditions for Nigerian journalists. He emphasized the importance of creating an enabling environment for journalists to thrive and contribute to the nation’s development. The donation is expected to be delivered by the end of April.
This gesture demonstrates Hon. Abejide’s commitment to the welfare of journalists and his recognition of the vital role they play in society. The NUJ has expressed gratitude for the donation, looking forward to continued collaboration with Hon. Abejide and the House of Representatives to improve working conditions for journalists nationwide.
