In a show of gratitude and recognition, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, on Tuesday, honoured its past leaders for their exceptional contributions and dedication to the journalism profession.
As part of the events marking the 2025 Press Week, the Council held a Special Public Lecture and Award Ceremony partly sponsored by the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.
One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of the Excellence Service Award to former chairmen of the Council.
On the roll of honour include: Chief Ndamadu Sule, Comrade Shok Jok, Comrade Amos Duniya, Comrade Abdul-Jelil Adebayo, Comrade (Chief) Malachy Uzendu, Comrade (Chief) Jacob Edi and Comrade Paul Ella Abechi.
Equally in an emotional gesture, the Council also awarded a posthumous honour to the former Chairman, late Comrade Chuks Ehirim, in recognition of his commitment to the union and the media profession while alive.
Pix 1: (Chief Ndamadu Sule); pix 2: Comrade Shock Jok; pix 3: Aamos Duniya
The award ceremony was part of a broader celebration that included keynote speeches, goodwill messages and reflections on the state of the journalism profession in Nigeria today.
The ceremony was attended by seasoned journalists, media executives, government officials, and friends of the media industry.
The Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, explained that the honours bestowed on the former council leaders were part of appreciating the services of personalities who had served before her tenure and had laid the foundation for the vibrant press activities and the secretariat the Council is enjoying now.
Pix 4: Chief Malachy Uzendu; pix 5: Chief Jacob Edi; pix 6: Comrade Abdul-Jelil Adebayo; pix 7: Comrade Paul Ellah-Abechi.
“This is our way of saying thank you to the leaders who served with commitment and strength.
“Their contributions have shaped our journey and inspired the next generation of journalists,” she said.
She added that the Press Week was not simply a time to celebrate the media, but equally “provided opportunity to reflect on its responsibilities, challenges, and the road ahead —especially in an ever-changing media landscape”.
The honoured former chairmen were visibly touched by the recognition, and expressed deep appreciation to the Union’s current leadership for remembering their years of service.
