The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has called for urgent and sustained action to address insecurity and poverty affecting workers in Nigeria.
Ike made the call in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja to commemorate the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration.
She noted that this year’s theme, “Insecurity and Poverty: Bane of Decent Work,” aptly reflects the prevailing challenges confronting workers across the country.
According to her, insecurity and economic hardship continue to undermine productivity, threaten livelihoods, and erode the dignity of labour.
The NUJ chairman commended journalists and media professionals in the FCT for their resilience and dedication to ethical journalism despite operating under difficult and often risky conditions.
“Journalists in the FCT work within a complex environment, facing safety risks while striving to inform, educate, and hold power to account,” she said.
Ike expressed concern that persistent insecurity not only endangers lives but also limits access to information and hampers journalists’ ability to perform effectively.
She added that rising poverty and economic pressures were negatively impacting workers’ welfare, morale, and overall well-being.
The NUJ chairman urged governments at all levels to intensify efforts toward improving national security and implementing policies that would directly alleviate poverty.
She stressed that ensuring safe working conditions and creating economic opportunities were essential to achieving decent work for all Nigerians.
Ike also called on media organisations and employers in the FCT to prioritise the welfare of journalists through fair remuneration, improved working conditions, insurance coverage, and access to continuous professional development.
She emphasised the need for strengthened solidarity among union members, urging them to continue advocating for workers’ rights, safety, and dignity.
The chairman encouraged journalists and workers to remain steadfast and committed despite prevailing challenges.
“Through collective effort, purposeful engagement, and dedication, we can contribute to building a safer, more equitable and prosperous society,” she said.
Ike wished journalists and workers in the FCT a reflective, safe and fulfilling Workers’ Day celebration.
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