From David Onuoja, Abuja
The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, FCT Council, has raised N5,010,000, to support the education and welfare of the three children left behind by its late former Chairman, Comrade Patrick Osaretin Osadebamwen.
The voluntary contributions from 265 council members, were formally presented to the family on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, in Abuja. The ceremony had in attendance members of the Council Executives, Chairmen, past and present union leaders, and other stakeholders.
The trust fund initiative was launched immediately after the sudden death of Comrade Osadebamwen. The council mobilized members and well-meaning individuals to provide sustained support for the children.
Represented by Vice Chairman, Comrade Yahaya Ndambabo, Council Chairman Comrade Grace Ike, described the late chairman’s passing as a painful loss to the union. She thanked God for the peaceful burial.
Related News
“Since the unfortunate passing of our former Chairman, the NUJ FCT Council has remained present and on ground. We mobilised our members and stakeholders to support his children, and today we are presenting the outcome of that collective effort,” she said.
Comrade Ike disclosed that as of September 7, 2026, 265 members contributed the N5.01 million. She stressed that the money was not a general donation but a dedicated Trust Fund strictly for the education and welfare of the three children.
“Our responsibility does not end with raising the money. We must also ensure that it is properly administered and preserved for the purpose for which it was raised,” she said, urging the family to ensure transparent management of the fund.
While presenting the dummy cheque, Comrade Ndambabo commended Madam Sarah Augustine, younger sister to the late chairman and the family’s representative, for her commitment to the children. He acknowledged the sacrifices she made in caring for them even before their parents died, and urged her to continue providing love and guidance following the loss of both parents.
Responding on behalf of the family, an emotional Madam Augustine, thanked the NUJ FCT leadership and members for their support.
“You did not abandon us when this tragedy happened. You stood by us and showed that these children are not alone,” she said.
She also confirmed receiving an alert for the N5,010,000 payment into the designated account during the presentation, and promised that the fund would be used strictly for the children’s education and welfare.
Council leaders described the gesture as a demonstration of the NUJ FCT’s commitment to members and their families. They noted that the initiative reinforces the principle that unionism extends beyond the workplace, and serves as both a tribute to Comrade Osadebamwen and a foundation for securing his children’s future.
