Journalists face growing pressure, says NUJ FCT chairman

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has urged journalists in the Federal Capital Territory to prioritise their mental health amid growing pressure associated with the media profession.

Speaking during the 2026 NUJ FCT Press Week Health Walk held in Abuja on Monday, Ike said the theme of the exercise, “Mental Health and Stress Management in High-Pressure Work Environments,” reflects the everyday realities faced by journalists.

According to her, media professionals in Abuja operate under intense conditions, including tight deadlines, late-night assignments, security risks, and the increasing challenge of combating fake news and misinformation.

“We work late into the night to break news. We face danger to report the truth. We deal with angry leaders, fake news and tight deadlines. All this builds up stress that can make us tired, sad or even sick,” she said.

Ike explained that the health walk was not just about physical fitness but also aimed at encouraging journalists to relax, interact, and support one another while promoting mental wellness.

“We must be alive for that story to be heard or read,” she stated, urging journalists to adopt healthy lifestyles through adequate rest, hydration, counselling, and participation in wellness activities.

The NUJ FCT chairman also called on media organisations and industry leaders to create safer work environments, improve welfare packages, and provide counselling support for journalists.

She commended members of the Press Week Organising Committee for the successful coordination of the event and appreciated sponsors and participants for supporting the initiative.

Earlier, former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Evelyn Onyilo, praised the NUJ FCT Council under the leadership of Grace Ike for organising the mental health awareness walk as part of activities marking the 2026 Press Week.

Onyilo urged journalists to take their health and wellbeing seriously despite the demands of the profession.

Also speaking, Chairman of the 2026 Press Week Committee, Comrade Obas Esiedesa, applauded the NUJ FCT Council and committee members for their dedication towards organising the week-long activities.

He highlighted some of the activities lined up for the Press Week, including the free medical outreach held on May 16 and the health walk focused on mental health awareness.

Esiedesa encouraged journalists to continue prioritising their wellbeing while carrying out their professional responsibilities.

The 2026 NUJ FCT Press Week continues with activities aimed at promoting professionalism, unity, and welfare among journalists in the Federal Capital Territory.