NUJ FCT Council inaugurates press clubs in FCT schools to inspire next generation of Journalists

As part of activities marking its 2025 Press Week, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has inaugurated Press Clubs in two secondary schools in Abuja.

The initiative, launched on Thursday, is designed to mentor young students, ignite their passion for journalism, and encourage them to explore careers in the media industry.

The schools selected for this year’s program are Beautiful Beginning Academy (BBA) in Apo and Government Secondary School (GSS) in Garki.

Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Ms. Grace Ike, who led the inauguration, said the goal was to “catch them young” by inspiring students early on to develop journalistic skills and uphold media ethics.

“Mentorship is key. We also want to encourage healthy competition, discover talents in writing and broadcasting, and shape responsible future leaders,” she said.

Ike added that the initiative would train students, raise awareness about press freedom, and educate them on journalism in a digital age marked by misinformation and fake news.

She noted that starting with one private and one public school was a promising beginning, with plans to expand the programme across FCT schools.

“I urge NUJ members to support this initiative as we build a future where journalism serves as a force for good,” she said.

Vice Chairman of the Council, Mr Ndambabo Yahaya, described the clubs as platforms for instilling responsible journalism, civic engagement, and leadership.

“School press clubs have historically produced some of Nigeria’s finest journalists and public intellectuals,” he noted.

Yahaya said the initiative would promote media literacy, foster leadership, and sharpen students’ writing, speaking, and storytelling skills.

He reaffirmed the NUJ’s commitment to capacity-building through periodic training for students and teachers, as well as inter-school press competitions to encourage creativity and excellence.

“Journalism is not just writing news, it’s about curiosity, truth-seeking, and empowering people with information to make informed decisions,” Yahaya told the students.

The event featured news presentations by the newly inaugurated press clubs as part of the 2025 NUJ Press Week activities.

Mr Harry Essang, Principal of BBA, expressed gratitude to NUJ for selecting his school and commended the impact on students’ confidence.

Club Patron, Kayode Mayode, also highlighted how the club had boosted students’ public speaking and writing skills.

Student participants shared similar sentiments. Miss Asimawu Maitama, said the experience deepened her interest in journalism and improved her confidence.

Mr Joshua Itajuwa, who shares a passion for journalism with his sister, described the club as life-changing:

“Before now, I feared speaking in public, but now I talk boldly and confidently anywhere,” he said.

Miss Sule Favour, President of the GSS Garki Press Club, called the initiative a great opportunity, pledging to build on the legacy of Nigerian journalists.

Her school principal, Mr Sadeeq Ochiji, lauded the council’s effort and expressed hope that the club would groom the next generation of media professionals.

He also thanked FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for renovating the school.