NUJ FCT Takes Welfare Drive Further with Health Insurance for Members

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council has taken a major step in improving members’ welfare by enrolling over 150 journalists into the Federal Capital Territory Health Insurance Scheme (FHIS), with plans to extend coverage to all members. This initiative, led by Comrade Grace Ike, marks a turning point in prioritizing journalists’ access to affordable healthcare.  

NUJ FCT Takes Welfare Drive Further with Health Insurance for Members

Background

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has consistently emphasized the welfare of its members. In recent years, journalists in Abuja have faced challenges accessing affordable healthcare, a situation compounded by the demanding nature of their profession. Recognizing this, the NUJ FCT leadership under Comrade Grace Ike has launched a health insurance initiative to safeguard members’ wellbeing.

The Initiative

On March 14, 2026, the NUJ FCT Council officially enrolled more than 150 journalists into the FCT Health Insurance Scheme (FHIS). This represents about 65% of the union’s membership in Abuja, with the goal of achieving full coverage in the near future.  

The scheme was rolled out in collaboration with the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat and the FCT Health Insurance Scheme (FHIS). The Mandate Secretary of the Secretariat, Dr. Fasawe, commended the NUJ for prioritizing journalists’ welfare and pledged continued support. 

Key Highlights

- Free Enrolments: The NUJ FCT secured 200 free health insurance slots for members, ensuring immediate access to healthcare without financial strain.  

- Partnerships: The council partnered with the FCT Health Department and FHIS, with additional support from stakeholders such as Hon. Akin Rotimi, who sponsored coverage for 130 journalists in the House of Representatives Press Corps.  

- Campaign Promise Fulfilled: Comrade Grace Ike reiterated her commitment to fulfilling all welfare-related promises made during her campaign, emphasizing that healthcare is a fundamental right for journalists. 

Impact on Journalists

This initiative is expected to:  

- Reduce financial burdens associated with medical care.  

- Improve access to quality healthcare services for journalists and their families.  

- Enhance productivity and morale among members by addressing a critical welfare need. 

Future Outlook

The NUJ FCT Council aims to achieve 100% enrolment of its members in the FHIS. Plans are underway to expand the scheme, ensuring that no journalist in Abuja is left without coverage. The council also intends to explore additional welfare programs, including housing and training opportunities, to complement the health insurance drive.

In summary, the NUJ FCT’s health insurance initiative is a landmark welfare achievement, setting a precedent for journalist unions across Nigeria. By securing healthcare access for its members, the council has not only fulfilled a campaign promise but also strengthened the foundation for a healthier, more resilient press corps in the nation’s capital.