NUJ FCT Press Week 2025: Journalists get free consultations, eye tests, surgeries

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has once again teamed up with Nizamiye Hospital to organize a free medical outreach for journalists in Abuja.

The event, which marks the second in the series, formed part of the 2025 Press Week celebrations and attended to over 250 journalists from across the FCT.

Speaking at the event, the NUJ FCT Council Chairperson, Ms. Grace Ike, charged media professionals to remain committed to the values of press freedom, media excellence, and democracy.

She also stressed the importance of prioritizing personal health, pointing out that healthy journalists are better equipped to carry out their duties effectively.

“In this era of digital transformation and social shifts, our core duty remains the same, to defend press freedom, hold authorities accountable, and deliver truth with integrity. However, journalism comes with its own pressures, and this initiative reminds us that staying healthy is critical to fulfilling our mission,” Ike stated.

She applauded Nizamiye Hospital for its ongoing partnership and healthcare contributions, noting that the collaboration has made lasting impacts, with a previous outreach benefiting over 300 journalists.

According to her, such efforts have not only improved journalists’ access to quality medical services but have also raised awareness about their health.

Mohammed Abubakar, Deputy Chief Operating Officer of Nizamiye Hospital, advised journalists to adopt a culture of regular health checks, particularly after the age of 40.

He warned that many people live with undetected hypertension or high blood sugar due to a lack of routine medical assessments.

“Once you clock 40, medical checkups should be done at least twice a year. This helps detect potential health issues early, before they worsen,” Abubakar said.

He added that the outreach covered general health screening, cardiac care, and eye examinations, and that journalists diagnosed with cataracts would receive free surgeries.

Former NUJ FCT Chairman, Mr. Malachi Uzendu, described the initiative as timely and commendable, considering the immense stress media professionals face daily. He encouraged his colleagues to take their health seriously despite their busy schedules.

Also speaking, Basset Ita-Ikpang, Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, expressed gratitude for the outreach, noting that it was the first time many journalists were getting such direct access to healthcare services.

“It’s widely known that journalists rarely make time for health checks. Early detection remains key in preventing more severe health conditions,” she said.

The 2025 Press Week, themed “Journalism in a Changing World: Press Freedom, Media, and the Society,” underscores the evolving challenges of the profession and the need for sustained attention to journalists’ welfare and development.

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