NUJ FCT, Nizamiye Hospital offer free medical care for journalists

No fewer than 300 journalists in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have benefited from free medical consultations and health screenings organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, in partnership with Nizamiye Hospital in Abuja. The outreach, held at the council’s secretariat in Abuja, formed part of activities marking the union’s 2026 Press […]

No fewer than 300 journalists in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have benefited from free medical consultations and health screenings organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, in partnership with Nizamiye Hospital in Abuja.

The outreach, held at the council’s secretariat in Abuja, formed part of activities marking the union’s 2026 Press Week.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, stressed the need for journalists to prioritise their health while carrying out their professional responsibilities.

According to her, journalists often devote their time to serving society and informing the public while neglecting their personal wellbeing.

“A healthy journalist is better equipped to serve society with excellence,” she said.

Ike commended Nizamiye Hospital for supporting journalists through the initiative, noting that regular medical checks were essential for professionals working in demanding environments.

A representative of the hospital, Dr Uzochukwu Chetachi, explained that the outreach was designed to provide journalists with access to free medical consultations, examinations and professional medical advice.

She disclosed that specialists in cardiology, ophthalmology, general practice, pharmacy, laboratory services and nursing participated in the exercise.

According to the medical team, participants diagnosed with serious health conditions during the screening would be referred to appropriate specialists for further treatment and management.

The outreach coincided with the opening of the NUJ FCT Council’s 2026 Press Week, themed: “2027 Election: Defending Democracy in the Era of Disinformation.”

Addressing journalists during the opening ceremony, Ike also urged media practitioners across the country to uphold ethical journalism and combat fake news ahead of the 2027 general elections.

She urged journalists to remain professional, accurate and balanced in their reportage as the nation prepares for another electoral cycle.