Bago, Ganduje, Elumelu to feature as NUJ announces 2026 Press Week events

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has announced plans for its 2026 Press Week, scheduled to begin on May 16, with a series of activities aimed at promoting responsible journalism, democratic accountability, and public wellbeing ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The week-long programme will run from May 16 to May 22, 2026, and will feature medical outreach, a mental health awareness walk, public lecture, awards ceremony, quiz competition, and a grand finale celebration.

This year’s theme is: “2027 Election: Defending Nigeria’s Democracy in the Age of Disinformation.”

According to the Council, the annual event is designed to bring together journalists, policymakers, civil society organisations, media executives, and government officials to deliberate on issues central to Nigeria’s democratic growth and national development.

The activities will kick off on May 16 with a medical outreach at the NUJ FCT Secretariat in Utako, Abuja, in partnership with Nizamiye Hospital, where free medical checks and consultations will be offered to participants.

A “Walk for Mental Health” is scheduled for May 18, while the public lecture and awards ceremony will hold on May 19 at the Lagos/Osun Hall of the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

The event is expected to attract over 1,000 participants, including top government officials, political leaders, media executives, and key stakeholders in the democratic space.

Governor Mohammed Umar Bago is expected to chair the lecture, while former Kano State governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, will serve as co-chairman. Former House of Representatives member, Ndudi Elumelu, is billed to deliver the keynote address.

The programme will also feature the recognition of outstanding journalists and distinguished Nigerians for excellence, professionalism, and contributions to national development.

Speaking ahead of the event, the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, described the Press Week as “a week of impact, reflection, celebration, and professional excellence,” urging journalists and stakeholders to actively participate in all scheduled activities.