In a commendable gesture aimed at improving the working conditions of media professionals, Chairman of the House Committee on Customs and Excise, Hon. Leke Joseph Abejide, has donated five floor-standing air conditioners to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
The lawmaker made the donation during his appearance as guest speaker at the NUJ FCT Council’s maiden Easter Cantata concert held in Abuja. Addressing a gathering of journalists, Rep. Abejide emphasized the essential role the media plays in shaping society and amplifying the efforts of both government and private entities.
“The media is the mirror of the society,” he noted. “No matter what you do, if the media isn’t there to report it, it’s like dancing alone in your room. Journalists deserve a better atmosphere to work in, and I am committing five air conditioners to the NUJ Secretariat before the end of April.”
Rep. Abejide, who represents Yagba East/West/Mopamuro Federal Constituency in Kogi State, urged journalists to continue promoting national unity and responsible journalism. He praised the current administration’s strides and reiterated the House of Representatives’ readiness to support legislative efforts geared toward enhancing journalists’ welfare.
Responding, the NUJ National President, Chief Alhassan Yahya, expressed gratitude and revealed that the union is collaborating with key stakeholders to propose a bill that would significantly improve the working conditions of journalists across the country. He appealed to Rep. Abejide and his colleagues to champion its passage.
Also speaking at the event, NUJ FCT Council Chairperson, Comrade Grace Ike, described the donation as timely and impactful, particularly as the union grapples with infrastructural challenges. She underscored the importance of the Easter Cantata and similar social events in fostering unity, morale, and professional networking among members.
“This single event has earned us five standing air conditioners. It shows the power of unity and innovation,” Ike said. “We have over 3,000 members in the FCT, and our current facility barely holds 500. Our aim is to continue organizing events that bring our members together and strengthen the union.”
She added that the NUJ will persist in implementing creative strategies to draw support from both public officials and well-meaning Nigerians, emphasizing that media professionals deserve an environment that matches the critical role they play in national development.
