From David Onuoja, Abuja
The FCT council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has elected Grace Ike, as its first female Chairman after 43 years of its establishment.
Grace who is of Advocate Broadcasting Network (ADBN), was elected along other executive members to pilot the affairs of the council for three years.
She was elected Chairman on Wednesday alongside four other executive members: Mr. Yahaya Ndambabo of Voice of Nigeria (VON), as Vice Chairman, Comrade Jide Oyekunle of Independent Newspaper as Secretary and Sandra Udeike of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) as Treasurer.
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The election, which was unopposed but still went through all the election processes, was conducted by the officials from the National Secretariat of the NUJ led by its Vice President, Alhaji Adeiza Momohjimoh.
The election was observed under tight security with massive turn out of journalists from various media organizations and Chapels operating in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The newly elected officials will pilot the affairs of the union for the next three years in the FCT while the vacant positions will be filled through a by-election.
The oath of office was administered by Barr. Ehidiamen Isibor, under the watch of the Credentials Committee led by Mr. Henry Umoru and members of the committee
In her inaugural speech, Grace Ike, said her election marks a ‘new dawn’ for the journalists in the nation’s capital.
She added that, her aim is to reposition NUJ FCT Council through innovative projects that would impact directly on the welfare of members.
According to her, “With immense gratitude and a profound sense of responsibility, I stand before you today as your elected Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council.
“This moment is both humbling and inspiring, and I thank you sincerely for the trust and confidence you have placed in me.
“As we begin this journey together, let me start by congratulating the newly elected NUJ National President, Alhaji Yahya Alhassan, his Deputy, and other members of the National Executive Council on their well-deserved victory.
“Your emergence symbolizes a new chapter and I pledge the unwavering support of the FCT Council as we work collaboratively to strengthen the ideals of our profession.
“To the women of this council, those who stood by me with unwavering determination and strength throughout this journey, I offer my heartfelt appreciation.
“Your courage, resilience, and support were pivotal to this victory, and I am forever grateful. Together, we will continue to inspire and empower one another.
“As I assume this noble office, I am reminded of the words of John C. Maxwell: “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.
“With these words as our guide, we shall chart a course toward unity, progress, and excellence for our union,” she said.
While presenting the certificates of return to the chairman, the Zone D Vice President, Adeiza Momohjimoh, congratulated her for the election and returning unopposed.
Grace was the immediate past Chairperson of the House of Representatives Press Corps and Vice Chairman FCT Correspondents Chapel.
She has worked in various capacities and at various times at the Independent Television ( ITV ) and Silverbird Television.
