The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, will commence its 2026 Press Week on Saturday, May 16, with a medical outreach programme as part of activities lined up for the annual event.
The week-long programme, scheduled to run from May 16 to May 22, is themed: “2027 Election: Defending Nigeria’s Democracy in the Age of Disinformation.”
According to the council, the Press Week is aimed at promoting responsible journalism, healthy living, democratic accountability, and strengthening the role of the media in combating misinformation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The programme will begin with a medical outreach at the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Utako, Abuja, at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 16.
Other activities include a “Walk for Mental Health” on Monday, May 18, from the Julius Berger Roundabout to the NUJ Secretariat in Utako at 7:00 a.m.
The council will also hold a public lecture and awards ceremony on Tuesday, May 19, at the Lagos/Osun Hall of Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, beginning at 9:00 a.m.
A secondary school press club quiz competition is slated for Thursday, May 21, at the NUJ Secretariat, while the event will end with a grand finale and jean party on Friday, May 22.
The highlight of the celebration is expected to be the public lecture and awards ceremony, which organisers said would attract over 1,000 participants, including top government officials, media executives, civil society groups, and other stakeholders.
Governor Mohammed Bago of Niger State is expected to chair the lecture, while former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, will serve as co-chairman.
The Inspector-General of Police is billed to attend as special guest of honour, alongside prominent political figures and media stakeholders.
Former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, is expected to deliver the keynote address.
Organisers said the awards ceremony would honour outstanding journalists and distinguished Nigerians for their professionalism, excellence, and contributions to national development.
As part of the community-focused initiatives of the Press Week, the NUJ FCT Council said it would partner with Nizamiye Hospital to provide free medical checks and consultations for journalists and members of the public during the outreach programme.
Speaking ahead of the event, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, called on journalists and stakeholders to participate actively in all activities lined up for the celebration.
She described the 2026 Press Week as “a week of impact, reflection, celebration, and professional excellence.”
The council assured participants of a memorable and engaging experience throughout the week-long event.
