The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, held its Congress on Saturday, 11th October, 2025, at the NUJ Secretariat, Abuja. The meeting, which also featured a valedictory session in honour of the late Comrade Stella Okoh-Esene, former Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, was well attended by members across various chapels.
After extensive deliberations on issues affecting the union, the media profession, and the general public, the Congress resolved as follows:
- Tribute to Comrade Stella Okoh-Esene:
Council paid glowing tribute to the late Comrade Stella Okoh-Esene, describing her as a fearless and principled journalist, a unionist of great repute, and a mentor who dedicated her life to the advancement of women in journalism. Members observed a moment of silence in her honour and resolved to continue to uphold the values she represented, integrity, fairness, and professionalism. - Poor Waste Management at Jabi Park Junction:
Council expressed serious concern over the poor state of waste management at Jabi Park Junction and its adjoining areas. It noted that a formal letter had earlier been written to the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) requesting urgent intervention; however, no meaningful action has been taken to address the situation.
Council, therefore, calls on the AEPB to take immediate and concrete steps to clear the waste, ensure proper waste disposal mechanisms, and maintain environmental sanitation in the area to prevent potential health hazards. - Decommissioning of Meters by the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC):
Council decried the recent decommissioning of certain categories of electricity meters by the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) without prior notice to consumers. It further noted allegations that unsuspecting members of the public are being compelled to pay exorbitant sums to replace their meters.
Council condemns this act as exploitative and calls on relevant regulatory authorities, including the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), to investigate the matter and compel AEDC to desist from actions that impose undue financial hardship on residents of the FCT.
The Council commended members for their continued dedication to the ideals of ethical journalism and union solidarity and encouraged them to remain steadfast in promoting truth and fairness in their reportage.
Signed:
Comr. Odigie Ehidiamen Kelvin
Chairman, Communiqué Drafting Committee