*Salutes Residents, Others
*Seeks Improvement In Journalists’ Upkeep
Journalists in the employ of Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have felicitated Nigerians on the nation’s 66th Independence Day anniversary, today, even as they called on FCTA authorities to prioritize the welfare of residents as the socioeconomic times are indeed harsh on many.
Chairperson of their umbrella body, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCTA chapel, Comrade Ngozi Uloma Ufomba, disclosed this in a statement today.
In the statement titled ‘A Call For Renewed Patriotism, Unity, And Responsible Journalism’, Comrade Ufomba congratulated all Nigerians, both at home and in the Diaspora, on the anniversary and prayed for greater times ahead.
It read, in part: “Sixty-six years ago, on October 1st, 1960, our founding fathers raised the Green-White-Green flag with hope in their eyes and a dream of a united, prosperous, and just nation. That dream, though tested by trials, remains alive and achievable.
“As we mark this milestone, we must pause to reflect:
“On Our Nationhood: Nigeria has come a long way. We have survived a civil war, military interventions, economic recessions, and numerous socio-political challenges, yet we remain one indivisible nation. This resilience is proof that our unity is stronger than our differences. At 66, we must re-commit ourselves to the ideals of peace, unity, tolerance, and brotherhood. No tribe, religion, or political interest should be bigger than Nigeria.
“On Governance and Accountability: We call on all levels of government, especially the Federal Capital Territory Administration, to prioritize the welfare of citizens. Nigerians are resilient but they are also facing harsh economic realities, insecurity in some parts, and a rising cost of living. This anniversary should be a moment for sober reflection and renewed commitment to good governance, transparency, and people-oriented policies. The dividends of democracy must reach the common man.
“On the Role of Journalists: As journalists, we are the conscience of the nation and the watchdogs of society. At 66, the Nigerian media has played a pivotal role in entrenching democracy and holding power to account. I urge my colleagues, particularly members of the FCTA Chapel, to continue to uphold the ethics of our profession – truth, accuracy, objectivity, and fairness. We must not allow ourselves to be used to spread fake news, hate speech, or division. Let us use our pens and platforms to build, not to destroy; to unite, not to divide.
“On Press Freedom and Welfare: On this occasion, I also wish to draw attention to the welfare and safety of journalists in Nigeria. A nation that does not protect its journalists cannot claim to be truly free. We call on government and security agencies to ensure the safety of journalists and to create an enabling environment for us to practice without fear or favour. The welfare of journalists in FCTA and across the nation must be taken seriously.
“On Hope for the Future: Nigeria @66 is not just about celebration, it is about hope. Hope that our children will inherit a better Nigeria. Hope that our votes will count. Hope that our labour market will absorb our youth. Hope that our diversity will become our greatest strength. That hope is valid, and together, we can achieve it.
“As we celebrate with parades, prayers, and family gatherings, let us remember the labour of our heroes past shall never be in vain. Let us be patriotic in our little corners – obey the law, pay our taxes, protect public property, and love our neighbours regardless of tribe or tongue.”
*PHOTO CAPTION: Comrade Ngozi Ufomba.
