By Nafisat Makinde
The Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has emphasized that “Freedom of Press is Non-Negotiable“. This statement was made during the NUJ FCT Council Press Week Lecture and Awards Ceremony, held in Abuja on July 22, 2025.
In her remarks, Comrade Ike listed the development of the NUJ FCT Journalists’ Village as one of the priorities to be pursued by her led council. This initiative is a long-awaited housing project, which aims to provide decent, affordable homes for journalists and their families in the heart of the nation’s capital.
Minister Ahmed Dangiwa, who was also present at the event, assured the NUJ FCT Council that the long-awaited affordable housing estate for journalists in Abuja will become a reality. This promise is part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to make housing more affordable for all Nigerians.
The ministry will provide support for the development of the Journalists’ Village through the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN). The housing units will be affordable, with a payment plan of up to 30 years. The minister advocated for stronger legal protections for journalists and better funding models for independent media.
Minister Dangiwa emphasized the importance of press freedom. He stated that “We all know that the realities across the world and even in democracies, press freedom is under pressure. Journalists face intimidation, censorship, and economic hardship. And in this digital age, where content can be distorted and even drawn out of fake news, your profession has become more difficult. But let me say this, your work matters.”
“We want Nigerians to understand why we are doing it, and no one is better placed to help tell that story than you, the journalists, editors, photographers, producers, publishers, who serve as the eyes and ears of the public,” Minister Dangiwa said.
Comrade Ike stated that “Housing is not just shelter – it’s dignity and a base for national growth. Journalists, as defenders of democracy, must not be left out.”
The NUJ FCT Council Press Week Lecture and Awards Ceremony was a significant event that highlighted the importance of press freedom. The assurances made by Minister Dangiwa and Comrade Ike are a step in the right direction towards promoting the welfare of journalists and ensuring that press freedom is protected.
