By Aaron Ossai
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has urged journalists in the Federal Capital Territory to prioritise their mental health amid the increasing pressures associated with the profession.
Speaking during the 2026 NUJ FCT Press Week Health Walk held in Abuja on Monday, Ike noted that the theme of the exercise, “Mental Health and Stress Management in High-Pressure Work Environments,” reflects the everyday realities confronting media professionals.
According to her, journalists in Abuja operate under intense pressure, including tight deadlines, late-night assignments, security threats, and the challenge of tackling fake news.
“We work late into the night to break news. We face danger to report the truth. We deal with angry leaders, fake news and tight deadlines. All this builds up stress that can make us tired, sad or even sick,” she said.
She explained that the health walk was not only about physical fitness but also aimed at creating an opportunity for journalists to relax, interact, and support one another while promoting mental wellness.
“We must be alive for that story to be heard or read,” Ike stated.
She encouraged journalists to adopt healthy habits such as adequate rest, proper hydration, counselling, and participation in wellness activities as part of regular self-care practices.
The NUJ FCT Chairman further called on media organisations and industry leaders to provide safer working environments, counselling support, and improved welfare packages for journalists.
Ike also commended members of the Press Week Organising Committee for successfully coordinating the event and appreciated sponsors and participants for supporting the initiative.
Earlier, former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Rotn. Evelyn Onyilo, praised the leadership of Comrade Grace Ike and the NUJ FCT Council for organising the health walk as part of activities marking the 2026 Press Week.
Onyilo urged journalists in the FCT to prioritise their health and overall well-being despite the demanding nature of the profession.
She also applauded the Chairman of the 2026 Press Week Committee, Comrade Obas Esiedesa, and committee members for what she described as a commendable job in successfully coordinating the activities.
Also speaking, Chairman of the 2026 Press Week Committee, Comrade Obas Esiedesa, commended the NUJ FCT Council and committee members for their dedication to organising the week-long programme.
Esiedesa highlighted activities lined up for the Press Week, including the free medical outreach held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, and the health walk focused on mental health awareness.
He encouraged journalists to continue prioritising their health and well-being despite the pressures of the profession.
The NUJ FCT Press Week continues with activities aimed at promoting professionalism, unity, and the welfare of journalists in the Federal Capital Territory.
