By Sunny Onyekwere
December 14, 2025
Journalists in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) were celebrated for their vital role in promoting truth, peace, credible governance, national development at the NUJ FCT Council Christmas Carol, on the theme: “Spreading Truth, Sharing Peace.”
The event held at the weekend, brought together media professionals, security agencies, political stakeholders, partners in reflecting on the shared responsibility of nation-building through accurate information, unity, collaboration.
Several speakers unanimously called for stronger partnerships in 2026, stressing that spreading truth and sharing peace remain central to building a safer, more united, democratic Nigeria.
Addressing the gathering, Chairman of the NUJ, FCT Council Comrade Grace Ike described the theme of the carol as a reminder that truth remains a guiding light even in challenging times. She commended journalists for their resilience, professionalism throughout 2025, especially in accountability reporting, justice advocacy, amplifying voices that promote national development.
“This season reminds us that light prevails even in the darkest nights, just as truth continues to shine, despite the many challenges we face. We spread truth, not to divide, but to heal, unite, foster peace. We are not just journalists; we are peacemakers,” Ike said.
She appreciated partners of the union, including the CEO of Teen Ambassador, who provided free musical equipments, others for their support. She expressed optimism for stronger collaboration in 2026, urging journalists to continue sharing peace in their homes, newsrooms, and communities.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, FCT, CP Dantawaye Miller, through the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustained collaboration with journalists in promoting peace, security across the Territory – stressing water-tight security during the Christmas period .
“Journalists are like police officers. We go to difficult, dangerous places together, we face risks together, because we share one mission – to protect lives, inform the public, keep society safe,” he said.
He also described the Christmas Carol as more than a social gathering, noting that it reflected shared values of peace, unity, compassion, hope.
On his part, Dr. Obinna Simon, SDP AMAC Chairmanship candidate, emphasized the critical role journalists play in ensuring credibility in the Area Council election process.
“In a country as diverse as ours, your professionalism helps Nigerians distinguish facts from falsehoods, gives credibility to the democratic process,” Simon said.
A representative of the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, Commander Godwin Ebunu delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, General O.O. Oluyede, AFM.
He congratulated journalists for successfully navigating the year 2025, assured them of the Armed Forces’ commitment towards ensuring a peaceful, secure Yuletide season.
He urged journalists to help propagate the campaign against the use of fireworks during festivities, noting that excessive use makes it difficult to differentiate between celebratory sounds and gunshots.
Also, Hon. Oforji Oboku, Member of the House of Representatives, representing Yenagoa/Kolokuma-Opokuma Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education Examination Bodies, in his goodwill message commended the leadership of the council under Comrade Grace Ike for organizing the carol service, bringing media professionals together in giving thanks to God for an eventful year.
He reaffirmed his continuous support to the media, their professional endeavours.
Hon. Oboku concluded by wishing journalists Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Not left out, speaking on behalf of the Managing Director of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Barrister Oluwashio Faleye, Dr. Emmanuel Olaye described the NUJ FCT Council as a strategic partner of the Fund, particularly in promoting the Employee Compensation Scheme.
He commended journalists for their support.
The NUJ, FCT Christmas Carol provided a platform for reflection, celebration, renewed commitment to responsible journalism, security collaboration, peaceful coexistence.
It also featured musical performances, presentations by media organizations/ Chapels, individual performances by some invited artists.
It also attracted the presence of former council Chairmen, Comrade Shok Jok, Comrade Abduljelil Adebayo, Chief Comrade Jacob Edi, Barr Malachy Uzendu. Also in attendance were former Presidents of National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), seasoned broadcasters, press council among others.
