The Association of West African Legislative Correspondents (AWALCO), has commended the achievements of the Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, and nominated her for an award scheduled for November.
The association announced the nomination on Monday during a courtesy visit by its executives, led by President Innocent Odoh, to the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Abuja.
Odoh described Ike’s tenure as impressive, noting that her emergence as the first woman to chair the NUJ FCT Council was a significant milestone in the history of the union.
He said her leadership had demonstrated courage, commitment and the capacity to take charge, adding that AWALCO was encouraged by the visible changes recorded under her watch.
“We are indeed very impressed and inspired. It takes somebody with this kind of courage and commitment, and someone who will take charge of things, and we are really seeing the change,” Odoh said.
He explained that Ike’s nomination followed internal discussions on journalists and leaders who have made significant contributions to the profession and public service.
According to him, her previous leadership of the House of Representatives Press Corps also placed her among those shortlisted for recognition by the association.
Odoh disclosed that AWALCO had initially planned the award ceremony last year to coincide with the 25th anniversary of the ECOWAS Parliament, but postponed it after the Parliament scheduled its own event.
He said the proposed honour is part of AWALCO’s broader effort to promote awareness and strengthen collaboration with the NUJ FCT Council on democracy, good governance and legislative accountability.
The association, he added, intends to partner with the council to organise seminars, workshops and conferences focused on development and the role of parliament in nation building.
“Parliament is the nucleus of a democratic system. Legislative correspondents have an important role to play in interrogating democratic principles and examining how legislation can translate into development for citizens,” Odoh stated.
With West Africa’s population exceeding 400 million, he said stronger collaboration between AWALCO and NUJ could help spread democratic and governance messages across ECOWAS member states.
Responding, Ike welcomed the delegation and expressed appreciation for the recognition. “I really don’t take this award for granted. I’m honoured,” she said.
The NUJ FCT Chairman assured AWALCO of the council’s readiness to partner in areas that advance journalism, democracy and development. She urged journalists to uphold accuracy, fairness, balance and ethical reporting, while also prioritizing the welfare of media practitioners.
Ike further challenged journalists to interrogate emerging issues affecting democracy in West Africa, including electoral reforms, and to mentor younger reporters. “Leadership is not easy. If you are a leader, you must do everything possible to leave a legacy behind,” she said.
Also speaking, AWALCO Financial Secretary, Favour Olise, commended Ike for attracting reputable organisations to partner with NUJ and urged her to continue supporting younger journalists.
“Younger ones in the journalism profession, carry them along as you are already doing and keep doing the good works,” Olise said, describing Ike’s leadership as a positive contribution to the image and development of the profession.
AWALCO said it looks forward to strengthening its partnership with the NUJ FCT Council, particularly in promoting legislative journalism, democratic accountability, good governance and development across Nigeria and the wider West African region.
