NUJ FCT Council Champions Wellness with Health Walk in Abuja

Comrade Grace Ike, NUJ FCT Council Chairman, responding to questions from the Press earlier today during the Union's Health Walk
Photo: True Verdict Magazine

NUJ FCT Council Champions Wellness with Health Walk in Abuja

·     Journalists unite in the Federal Capital Territory to promote fitness, solidarity, and resilience in the profession.  

The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, staged its Health Walk earlier today in Abuja, transforming the city’s streets into a lively parade of energy, camaraderie, and purpose.

Members of the press, often burdened by the demands of deadlines and the pressures of the newsroom, stepped out together to emphasize the importance of wellness in sustaining both body and mind.  

A Cross-section of Journalists at the NUJ FCT Council Health Walk Earlier Today

The walk began at the Julius Berger Roundabout with a spirited assembly of journalists dressed in sportswear and NUJ branded T-shirts, their enthusiasm palpable as they set off on the route. Conversations flowed easily, laughter punctuated the rhythm of footsteps, and the collective mood was one of determination and joy.

The Council’s leadership headed by the Chairman, Grace Ike underscored the significance of the event, reminding participants that a healthy lifestyle is not a luxury but a necessity for those whose work requires sharpness, resilience, and stamina.  

In her remarks, she noted that the profession is one of the most demanding, often requiring long hours, constant deadlines, and exposure to stressful situations. These pressures, she explained, can take a toll on both the body and the mind if not properly managed. 

APC clears Yahaya Bello, others to run for senatorial ticket

Yahaya Bello, former Governor, Kogi State

APC Clears Yahaya Bello, Others for Senatorial Ticket

·      APC Clears Yahaya Bello for Kogi Central Senatorial Ticket

·      Consensus Candidate Emerges in Kogi West

·      Seven Aspirants Cleared for Kogi East

·      PDP Concludes House of Representatives Primaries in Kogi

·      Abdulrahman Badamasuiy Expresses Gratitude After Affirmation

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially cleared former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, alongside several other aspirants, to contest in the upcoming senatorial primaries scheduled for Monday in Kogi State.

This decision was made by the party’s National Assembly screening committee, which approved a total of 17 aspirants across the state’s three senatorial districts.

Yahaya Bello’s eligibility had been the subject of speculation in recent days, but his name appeared as number 13 on the cleared list for the Kogi Central Senatorial District. He will face competition from Momoh Yusuf Obaro and Ibrahim Yakubu Adoke for the party’s ticket in that district.

World Communications Day 2026: Preserving Human Voices and Faces

Symbolic Photo
World Communications Day 2026: Preserving Human Voices and Faces

World Communications Day 2026: Preserving Human Voices and Faces

The 60th World Communications Day is being celebrated today, 17 May 2026, with the theme “Preserving Human Voices and Faces.” Pope Leo XIV emphasizes the urgent need to safeguard authentic human communication in an era increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and digital technologies.

World Communications Day was established in 1967 by Pope Paul VI following the Second Vatican Council’s decree Inter Mirifica on the means of social communication.

Since then, it has been observed annually on the Sunday before Pentecost, with each Pope issuing a message that reflects on contemporary challenges in communication. Over the decades, themes have ranged from journalism and truth to digital culture, family communication, and the ethics of social media.

The 60th edition marks a milestone, situating the Church’s mission within the age of artificial intelligence, deepfakes, and algorithm-driven realities.

The chosen theme highlights the uniqueness of human identity expressed through voice and face. Pope Leo XIV warns that while technology offers unprecedented opportunities, it also risks eroding the authenticity of human relationships.

Report on the 2026 World Communication Day Press Conference

His Bishop, Gerald Mamman Musa

Report on the 2026 World Communication Day Press Conference

The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria hosted a press conference in Abuja to mark the 2026 World Communication Day, with Bishop Gerald Mamman Musa delivering a profound reflection on the theme: “Preserving Human Voices and Faces: The Courage to Speak and the Grace to Be Seen.”  

Bishop Musa emphasized that while humanity has never been more digitally connected, it has also never been so emotionally disconnected. He warned that the rise of artificial voices, images, and artificial intelligence risks eroding what is most sacred and real: the human voice and the human face.

He described the theme not as a technological issue but as a moral, spiritual, and human concern, rooted in the dignity of the person created in the image of God. Quoting Pope Leo XIV, he reminded the audience that “faces and voices are sacred,” and preserving them is preserving “this indelible reflection of God’s love.”

The Bishop highlighted the dangers of a society where only the powerful are heard while the weak remain voiceless. He stressed that justice begins when the marginalized, such as the poor, displaced, persecuted minorities, and victims of violence, are given platforms to speak for themselves.

He contrasted this with the anonymity of those who spread hatred, lies, and cybercrime, noting that evil often hides behind masks and false identities.  

Drawing on philosophical and theological insights, Bishop Musa referenced Emmanuel Levinas’ teaching that the human face is an ethical summons, and Martin Buber’s “I-Thou” relationship, which calls for encounters based on dignity and respect. He reminded the audience that Scripture consistently restores voices to the voiceless, citing the example of Bartimaeus, who refused to be silenced and cried out to Jesus for mercy.  

The Bishop also addressed the challenges posed by digital culture, including deepfake technology, online bullying, and the obsession with filtered appearances. He warned that while machines can imitate voices and faces, they cannot replace genuine human connection.

A Testament to Communication and Service: Reflections from Nigeria’s Catholic Secretariat

Rev. Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh, National Director of Social Communications, CSN

A Testament to Communication and Service: Reflections from Nigeria’s Catholic Secretariat

The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria recently hosted a remarkable double celebration: the 60th World Communication Day and the closing of the 5th Nigeria Catholic Communications Week (ComWEEK).

In his address, Rev. Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh, National Director of Social Communications, offered a heartfelt reflection on the journey of the Church’s communication apostolate, its leadership transitions, and the enduring partnership with the media.  

Fr. Umoh began with gratitude, acknowledging the presence of clergy, staff, and members of the press as a testament to the vital alliance between the Church and the media in shaping a morally upright society.

He paid tribute to Most Rev. David Ajang, the immediate past Bishop Chairman for Social Communications, whose visionary leadership birthed initiatives such as the Nigeria Catholic Network (NCN) and the institutionalisation of ComWEEK. Ajang’s tenure, he noted, gave the communications apostolate “wings to fly.”  

The mantle now passes to Most Rev. Gerald Mamman Musa, Bishop of Katsina Diocese, introduced as a “titan within communication.” With his academic background at the Catholic Institute of West Africa and pastoral zeal, Bishop Musa is expected to propel the apostolate to greater heights.  

Fr. Umoh also used the occasion to bid farewell, as his six-year tenure as National Director nears its end. Reflecting on achievements since 2020, he highlighted the revolutionised digital presence of the Church, the restructuring of communication bodies, and the strengthening of advocacy for accountability and good governance. He credited the press for amplifying these efforts with integrity and balance.  

World Communication Day: Faith, Truth, and the Digital Age

Symbolic Photo

World Communication Day: Faith, Truth, and the Digital Age

World Communication Day (WCD) was established by the Catholic Church to emphasize the importance of communication in shaping human society. Each year, it provides a platform to reflect on how media and technology influence culture, values, and relationships.

In 2026, the celebration carried particular weight as Bishop Gerald Musa honoured persecuted journalists, reminding the world that communication is not merely about transmitting information but about safeguarding truth and human dignity. WCD thus serves as a bridge between faith and society, urging communities to use communication responsibly, ethically, and compassionately.  

The impact of misinformation on youth is one of the most pressing challenges highlighted during this year’s observance. Young people, immersed in digital platforms, often struggle to distinguish between reality and fabricated narratives.

The constant stream of manipulated images, false stories, and algorithm-driven content can distort their perception of truth, erode trust in institutions, and even fuel harmful behaviours.

World Communication Day 2026: Bishop Musa Champions Press Freedom and Human Dignity

Bishop Gerald Musa, responding to questions from the press earlier today

World Communication Day 2026: Bishop Musa Champions Press Freedom and Human Dignity

On May 17, 2026, Catholic Bishop Gerald Musa of Katsina Diocese used the 60th World Communication Day (WCD) to honour persecuted journalists, warning against the misuse of digital media and calling for the preservation of human dignity in communication.

His remarks highlighted the dangers journalists face, especially during elections, and the risks posed by misinformation in the digital age. 

The commemoration took place during the grand finale of the 5th Communication Week (ComWEEK), themed “Preserving Human Voices and Faces.” This grassroots media literacy programme was designed to strengthen awareness of ethical communication and the importance of protecting truth-tellers in society.

Bishop Musa, newly appointed as Chairman for Social Communications at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), used the occasion to spotlight the plight of journalists who continue to face intimidation, threats, and even death for exposing corruption and injustice. 

Editorial Analysis: The Message of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV for the 60th World Day of Social Communications

His Holiness Pope Leo XIV

Editorial Analysis: The Message of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV for the 60th World Day of Social Communications

The 60th World Day of Social Communications marks a defining moment in the Church’s dialogue with modern technology. Pope Leo XIV’s message, titled “Preserving Human Voices and Faces,” is not merely a reflection on communication ethics but a profound meditation on the nature of humanity in an age increasingly mediated by artificial intelligence.  

At the heart of the Pope’s message lies the conviction that the human voice is a sacred vessel of truth and relationship. He describes it as the “echo of the soul,” a phrase that captures the spiritual dimension of communication.

In a world where synthetic voices and digital avatars proliferate, the Pope warns against the loss of genuine human presence. His appeal is not nostalgic but prophetic, a call to preserve the integrity of human expression amid technological imitation.  

Pope Leo XIV situates artificial intelligence within a moral framework rather than a purely technical one. He acknowledges its potential to enhance communication, education, and accessibility, yet he cautions that AI must remain subordinate to human conscience.

The message challenges communicators, technologists, and educators to ensure that algorithms serve truth rather than distort it. The Pope’s tone is pastoral but urgent, reminding the faithful that the Church’s mission in the digital age is not to reject innovation but to humanize it.  

Since its inception in 1967 under Pope Paul VI, World Communications Day has evolved alongside the media landscape. Each papal message has addressed the shifting dynamics of communication, from print and broadcast to social media and now artificial intelligence.

Pope Leo XIV’s message continues this tradition, echoing the spirit of Inter Mirifica while expanding its relevance to the digital frontier. His reflections align with the Church’s historical commitment to truth, dialogue, and the dignity of the person.  

The Pope’s message underscores the ethical imperative of authenticity in communication. He warns that the manipulation of voices and faces through AI can lead to a “crisis of trust,” eroding the foundations of human relationships.

The antidote, he suggests, lies in cultivating discernment, the ability to distinguish between what is real and what is simulated. This discernment is not merely intellectual but spiritual, rooted in the recognition of the divine image in every human being.  

Obviously, Pope Leo XIV’s message is a call to responsibility. It invites communicators, journalists, and creators to become guardians of truth and humanity. The Pope envisions a future where technology amplifies compassion rather than replaces it, where communication remains an act of communion rather than consumption.

His words resonate beyond the Church, offering a universal appeal to preserve the human voice, the most ancient and enduring instrument of connection.  

The 60th World Day of Social Communications is both a celebration and a challenge. Pope Leo XIV’s message bridges the past and the future, reminding the world that communication is not merely about transmitting information but about revealing the face of the other.

Editorial: Preserving Human Voices — The Soul of Communication in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

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Editorial: Preserving Human Voices — The Soul of Communication in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Editorial: Preserving Human Voices -The Soul of Communication in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

The 60th World Communications Day 2026 stands as a profound reflection on the intersection between humanity and technology. Its theme, “Preserving Human Voices and Faces,” resonates deeply within the broader debates surrounding artificial intelligence and the historical evolution of communication itself.  

The human voice has always been more than sound; it is the embodiment of emotion, identity, and truth. In the age of artificial intelligence, however, voices can be cloned, faces can be fabricated, and emotions can be simulated.

This technological mimicry challenges the authenticity of communication, raising ethical questions about what it means to be human in a world where machines can speak and appear as we do.

The theme of this year’s celebration calls for vigilance, not against technology itself, but against the erosion of sincerity and empathy that can occur when communication becomes mechanized.  

Artificial intelligence has revolutionized communication, enabling translation across languages, accessibility for the disabled, and instant global connection. Yet, it also introduces dilemmas of authenticity, accountability, and manipulation.

Nizamiye Hospital’s Lifeline and the NUJ’s Democratic Mandate

Nizamiye Hospital’s Lifeline and the NUJ’s Democratic Mandate

Nizamiye Hospital’s Lifeline and the NUJ’s Democratic Mandate

The 2026 NUJ FCT Press Week opened not with speeches or fanfare, but with compassion, a free medical outreach that brought journalists face-to-face with the reality of their own wellbeing.

In a profession often defined by deadlines, stress, and exposure to public scrutiny, this act of care by Nizamiye Hospital was more than charity; it was a statement about the value of those who hold power accountable.  

Nizamiye Hospital’s involvement in the Press Week represents a growing recognition that journalism, though vital to democracy, is also physically and mentally demanding.

By offering free consultations, screenings, and medications, the hospital extended a lifeline to the media community, reminding them that their health is as crucial as their headlines.

The medical team’s presence at the NUJ Secretariat transformed the space into a hub of empathy, doctors and nurses attending to reporters who, for once, were the subjects of care rather than the storytellers.  

Press Week Opens with Lifeline: NUJ FCT and Nizamiye Hospital Deliver Free Medical Outreach to Journalists

Press Week Opens with Lifeline: NUJ FCT and Nizamiye Hospital Deliver Free Medical Outreach to Journalists 

Press Week Opens with Lifeline: NUJ FCT and Nizamiye Hospital Deliver Free Medical Outreach to Journalists  

The 2026 NUJ FCT Press Week officially began today, May 16, with a free medical outreach organized in partnership with Nizamiye Hospital, providing journalists in Abuja with vital health screenings, consultations, and medications. This initiative underscores the union’s commitment to journalist welfare while setting the tone for a week of impactful activities focused on democracy, health, and professional excellence. 

Launch of Press Week

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory Council opened its 2026 Press Week at the NUJ Secretariat in Utako, Abuja. The event commenced with a medical outreach led by Nizamiye Hospital, where journalists received free health checks, consultations, and medications. Many participants described the outreach as timely and life-saving, emphasizing the importance of regular medical care for professionals often exposed to stress and demanding schedules. 

Partnership with Nizamiye Hospital

Dr. Uzochukwu Chetachi, representing Nizamiye Hospital, explained that the medical team was fully prepared to deliver general consultations and free drugs. She expressed optimism that this collaboration would evolve into a continuous partnership, ensuring journalists’ health and wellbeing remain a priority. Beneficiaries praised the hospital for bringing healthcare closer to the media community, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment. 

Theme and Objectives

The 2026 Press Week is themed “2027 Election: Defending Nigeria’s Democracy in the Age of Disinformation.” This reflects the union’s focus on combating misinformation and safeguarding democratic values ahead of the upcoming general elections. The week-long programme is designed to promote responsible journalism, healthy living, and democratic accountability, while also celebrating professional excellence. 

The Shadow of Ebola: Lessons from Pain and Persistence

The Shadow of Ebola: Lessons from Pain and Persistence

Ebola is one of the world’s most feared viral diseases, a name that evokes both scientific urgency and human tragedy. Its symptoms, prevention measures, and history tell a story of resilience and recurring struggle across Africa.  

The Symptoms of Ebola

The illness begins subtly, often resembling malaria or typhoid fever. Within days, however, the virus reveals its devastating nature. Patients experience fever, severe headache, muscle pain, and fatigue, followed by vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. 

As the disease progresses, internal and external bleeding may occur, nosebleeds, bloody stools, and bruising from minor contact. The virus attacks the body’s immune and vascular systems, leading to organ failure and, in many cases, death.  

Measures and Prevention

Containing Ebola requires swift, coordinated action. Isolation of patients, contact tracing, and safe burial practices are the cornerstones of response. Health workers wear full protective gear to prevent exposure to bodily fluids. Communities are educated to avoid physical contact with infected individuals and to report symptoms early. Vaccination campaigns have proven effective against the Zaire strain, but the Bundibugyo strain, now active in Congo’s Ituri province, lacks a specific vaccine. International cooperation, between the World Health Organization, Africa CDC, and local ministries, remains vital to prevent cross-border spread.  

: Ebola Returns to Ituri: A Province in Peril

Ebola Returns to Ituri: A Province in Peril

A new Ebola outbreak has been confirmed in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s eastern Ituri province, with at least 246 suspected cases and between 65–80 deaths reported so far. The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain, which complicates response efforts since existing vaccines target the Zaire strain. Regional health authorities are on high alert due to cross-border risks with Uganda and South Sudan. 

Current Situation

Health officials in Congo announced that laboratory tests confirmed Ebola cases in the Rwampara, Mongwalu, and Bunia health zones of Ituri province. The suspected index case was a nurse who died after showing hemorrhagic symptoms. The outbreak has already claimed dozens of lives, with four deaths confirmed among laboratory-tested cases. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has classified this as Congo’s 17th Ebola outbreak since 1976. 

Strain and Medical Challenges

Unlike most previous outbreaks in Congo, which involved the Zaire strain, this outbreak has been identified as the Bundibugyo strain. This is significant because no approved vaccines currently exist for Bundibugyo, making containment more difficult. Treatments available are largely supportive, focusing on symptom management rather than direct antiviral action. 

Regional Spread and Risks

The outbreak is particularly concerning because Bunia, the provincial capital, lies close to Uganda’s border, and population movement in the mining areas of Mongwalu increases the risk of cross-border transmission. Uganda has already confirmed an imported case in Kampala, where a Congolese man died of the Bundibugyo strain. Although no local transmission has been reported in Uganda, several contacts are under quarantine. 

National grid capacity rises by 600MW as TCN commission 330KV lines in Edo

National grid capacity rises by 600MW as TCN commission 330KV lines in Edo

National Grid Capacity Rises by 600MW as TCN Commissions 330KV Lines in Edo

·      TCN Expands National Grid Capacity by 600MW

·      Commissioning of 330kV Lines in Edo State

·      Improved Power Evacuation and Distribution

·      Strategic Connection Between Ihovbor, Benin, and Ajaokuta

·      Socio-Economic Impact on Local Communities

·      Technical Details of the Transmission Project

·      Future Outlook for Nigeria’s Electricity Supply

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has achieved a significant milestone in strengthening the country’s electricity infrastructure with the commissioning of new 330kV transmission lines in Edo State.

The project, which links Ihovbor/Benin and Ihovbor/Ajaokuta, adds 600 megawatts of capacity to the national grid, a development expected to improve power evacuation and distribution across Nigeria.

At the commissioning ceremony in Benin City, TCN’s Managing Director, Engr. Sule Abdulaziz, explained that one of the major challenges in Nigeria’s electricity sector has been the inability to evacuate generated power efficiently. 

He emphasized that with the new lines, more electricity can now be transmitted from generation plants to distribution companies, ultimately reaching industries and households nationwide. 

“WE ARE OPENING UP SATELLITE TOWNS TO DISCOURAGE RURAL-URBAN MIGRATION”, SAYS FCT MINISTER, AS HE INSPECTS 13KM GOMANI-YANGOJI ROAD IN KWALI

L-R Managing Director, Zeberced construction, Adil Aydin Kurt, FCT Minister Barr Nyesom Wike and the Chairman, Kwali Area Council, Hon Danladi Chiya during the Minister's inspection of ongoing construction of Gomani-Yangoji road in Kwali Area Council on Thursday

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

“WE ARE OPENING UP SATELLITE TOWNS TO DISCOURAGE RURAL-URBAN MIGRATION”, SAYS FCT MINISTER, AS HE INSPECTS 13KM GOMANI-YANGOJI ROAD IN KWALI

…INSISTS, NO ALLIANCE BETWEEN PDP AND APM

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has said that moves by the government to open up the satellite towns in the FCT, especially, through road construction, were aimed at reducing rural-urban migration.

Addressing journalists shortly after inspecting the 13km Gomani-Yangoji road in Kwali Area Council, on Thursday, May 14, 2026, the Minister recalled that one of the mandates of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was to spread infrastructure into the rural areas in order to discourage migration of people from rural communities to urban centres.

“Remember that when we came on board, one of the mandates on development is that we should not concentrate development, provision of infrastructure just only in the cities. We must open up our satellite towns in order to discourage rural-urban migration”, he said.

While expressing his satisfaction with the progress on Gomani to Yangoji road being handled by Zeberced, the Minister commended the management and staff of the company for their diligence. He recollected how the construction of the road around Yangoji came to be, starting from the A2 to Pai road, which was already inaugurated during the second-year anniversary of Mr. President and lamented that the Pai to Gomani segment, being handled by a different contractor was still unfinished.

Youth Participation in Nigeria's Politic

Youth Participation in Nigeria's Politics

·      The Demographic Power of Nigerian Youth

·      Legal Milestones: The “Not Too Young to Run” Bill

·      Barriers Hindering Youth Political Participation

·      Youth Activism and Social Movements

·      Opportunities for Greater Inclusion

·      The Future of Nigerian Democracy

Youth participation in Nigerian politics is both a powerful demographic force and a contested space, with over 70% of the population under 35 but still facing systemic barriers to meaningful representation. Despite activism, reforms like the “Not Too Young to Run” law, and strong voter registration numbers, financial constraints, cultural biases, and low voter turnout continue to limit their influence.

Youth Participation in Nigeria's Politics

Nigeria is a nation defined by its youthful population. With more than 70% of citizens under the age of 35, the country’s political future is inevitably tied to the engagement of its young people. Yet, the paradox remains: while youths are socially conscious, digitally connected, and politically vocal, they remain structurally sidelined from the corridors of power.

Historical Context and Legal Framework

The passage of the “Not Too Young to Run” Bill in 2018 was a landmark reform, lowering the age requirements for elective offices. It was celebrated as a breakthrough for youth inclusion, but its impact has been limited. While it opened doors legally, the entrenched political culture and financial demands of Nigerian politics have kept many young aspirants outside the system.

Barriers to Participation

Several obstacles hinder youth involvement:

• Financial constraints: Nomination forms often cost millions of naira, pricing out most young candidates.
• Cultural biases: Older elites dominate party structures, with youth often dismissed as inexperienced.
• Systemic bottlenecks: Delegate systems and political godfatherism restrict access to decision-making.
• Low voter turnout: Despite youths making up the largest voting bloc (48 million registered voters in 2023), turnout among 18–35-year-olds was below 30%.

APO-KARSHI ROAD PROJECT WILL BE COMPLETED THIS YEAR -FCT MINISTER

FCT Minister fielding questions from journalists shortly after inspecting ongoing road projects in the FCT on Wednesday

APO-KARSHI ROAD PROJECT WILL BE COMPLETED THIS YEAR -FCT MINISTER

…EXPRESSES SATISFACTION WITH QUALITY AND PACE OF WORK, AS HE INSPECTS PROJECTS AHEAD OF THEIR COMMISSIONING

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has assured residents of the territory that the Apo-Karshi road project will be completed before the end of the year.

The Minister disclosed this while addressing journalists shortly after inspecting the Karu town, Apo-Karshi, and Gbazan-Kubwa road projects on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.

Barr Wike said residents have long awaited the completion of the Apo-Karshi road, which is being handled by SCC.  Describing the road as critical, the Minister expressed confidence in the ability of the contractor to deliver a quality work, within the agreed timeframe.

Recall that the 13.4 kilimetre road was initially awarded to Kakatar Engineering limited in 2011, to create an alternative route between Apo and Karshi and ease traffic from the Nyanya axis of the FCT, but was abandoned until Barr. Wike terminated the previous contract and re-awarded it to SCC in late 2025.