By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka
Abuja
The Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has urged journalists in the Federal Capital Territory to take their mental health seriously as work-related pressures continue to mount.
Ike made the call during the 2026 NUJ FCT Press Week Health Walk held in Abuja. She said the theme of the exercise, “Mental Health and Stress Management in High-Pressure Work Environments,” reflects the daily realities faced by media professionals.
According to her, journalists in Abuja often work under intense conditions that include tight deadlines, late-night assignments, security risks, and the challenge of combating fake news. She noted that these demands create stress that can affect both physical and mental well-being.
“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,” Ike said.
She urged journalists to make mental health care a regular habit through adequate rest, hydration, counseling, and participation in wellness activities. “We must be alive for that story to be heard or read,” she added.
Ike also called on media organisations and leaders to provide safer workspaces, counseling services, and better welfare packages for their staff. She commended the Press Week Organising Committee, sponsors, and participants for supporting the initiative.
Former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Rotn. Evelyn Onyilo, praised the NUJ FCT Council under Ike’s leadership for organising the health walk as part of the 2026 Press Week activities. She encouraged journalists to prioritise their health despite the demands of the profession.
Chairman of the 2026 Press Week Committee, Comrade Obas Esiedesa, also commended the council and committee members for their commitment. He highlighted events lined up for the week, including a free medical outreach held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, and the health walk focused on mental health awareness.
