By Sharon Emephia
I warmly felicitate with all journalists and workers across the Federal Capital Territory on the occasion of the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration.
This year’s theme, “Insecurity and Poverty: Bane of Decent Work,” is both timely and deeply reflective of the realities confronting workers across the nation. It underscores the urgent need to address the twin challenges of insecurity and economic hardship, which continue to undermine productivity, threaten livelihoods, and erode the dignity of labour.
In the FCT, journalists and media professionals operate within this complex environment, often facing safety risks while striving to inform, educate, and hold power to account. I commend members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council for their resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment to ethical journalism despite these challenges.
The persistence of insecurity not only endangers lives but also restricts access to information and hampers the ability of journalists to perform their duties effectively. At the same time, poverty and rising economic pressures continue to affect the welfare, morale, and overall well-being of workers. These issues must be addressed with deliberate and sustained action.
I call on government at all levels to intensify efforts towards improving national security and implementing policies that directly alleviate poverty. Ensuring a safe working environment and providing economic opportunities are fundamental to achieving decent work for all Nigerians.
Media organisations and employers within the FCT must also play their part by prioritising the welfare of journalists through fair remuneration, improved working conditions, insurance coverage, and access to continuous professional development. The protection and motivation of workers remain critical to national progress.
As a union, we must strengthen our solidarity and continue to advocate for the rights, safety, and dignity of our members. Let us remain united in our pursuit of professionalism, accountability, and excellence, while using our platforms to highlight issues that affect workers and society at large.
I encourage all journalists and workers in the FCT to remain resilient and committed, even in the face of these challenges. Through collective effort, purposeful engagement, and unwavering dedication, we can contribute to building a safer, more equitable, and prosperous society.
On behalf of the leadership of NUJ FCT Council, I wish all journalists and workers in the Federal Capital Territory a reflective, safe, and fulfilling May Day celebration.
This was contained in a Worker’s Day Message signed by Comrade Grace Ike
Chairman, NUJ FCT Council.