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. 

Activities Scheduled

The Press Week features a diverse lineup of events:

- Walk for Mental Health on Monday, May 18, to raise awareness about mental wellbeing.

- Public Lecture and Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, May 19, at Transcorp Hilton Abuja, expected to host over 1,000 participants including dignitaries such as Governor Mohammed Bago and former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje. The keynote will be delivered by Hon. Ndudi Elumelu. 

- Secondary School Press Club Quiz Competition on Thursday, May 21, to encourage young journalists.

- Grand Finale and Celebration on Friday, May 22, at the NUJ Secretariat in Utako. 

Significance

The NUJ FCT Council, led by Chairman Grace Ike, emphasized that this year’s Press Week is “a week of impact, reflection, celebration, and professional excellence.” Beyond the festivities, the medical outreach highlights the union’s dedication to journalist welfare, ensuring that those who safeguard democracy also receive the care they need to thrive.