NUJ FCT Congress raises alarm over insecurity, calls for safe schools, improved water supply in Abuja

The Congress of Journalists, having deliberated extensively on the prevailing security challenges in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and across Nigeria, as well as other matters affecting national development and public welfare, made the following resolutions:

The Congress called on journalists to continue reporting the security situation in the country accurately, objectively, and responsibly in the public interest. Journalists were urged to remain committed to holding public institutions accountable while ensuring their reports adhere to professional ethics.

The Congress urged all members to prioritise their personal safety and the security of their families while carrying out professional duties. Members were advised to remain vigilant at all times, particularly when commuting to and from work, and to adopt necessary security precautions in their daily activities.

The Congress called on security agencies to intensify efforts to combat insecurity and do more to protect lives and property. It stressed that the safety of citizens must remain a top priority for government and security institutions at all levels.

The Congress emphasised the importance of accuracy and transparency in official security communications. It urged security agencies to ensure that information released to the public reflects realities on the ground and inspires public confidence. Matters involving kidnappings, abductions, and other security breaches, it noted, should be communicated with utmost clarity and honesty.

The Congress called on governments at all levels to fully implement the Safe School Initiative and ensure its benefits reach schools across the country. It further demanded accountability from government officials responsible for the programme, noting that many attacks and abductions in schools could be prevented through effective application of existing security policies.

The Congress urged the Federal Government and state governments to prioritise the security of schools by providing adequate perimeter fencing, deploying security personnel, including members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and implementing other necessary protective measures. It stressed that the security of pupils, students, teachers, and educational facilities must be treated as a national priority.

The Congress expressed concern over persistent water supply challenges affecting residents of the Federal Capital Territory. It called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to address the situation urgently and ensure residents are not subjected to unnecessary hardship due to inadequate water supply.

The Congress called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to strengthen engagement with journalists in the FCT and foster a closer working relationship with the media, particularly on matters relating to security reporting and public information management. According to the Congress, such engagement would enhance public understanding of government efforts and support more effective dissemination of information.

The Congress urged the National Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists to organise regular seminars, workshops, and conferences on national security reporting. It noted that such programmes would equip journalists with the knowledge and skills required to report security issues professionally, responsibly, and safely.

The Congress reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, public-interest journalism, and the promotion of peace, security, and national development. Members pledged to continue upholding the highest standards of journalism while advocating policies and actions that enhance the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.

The NUJ FCT Council Congress was attended by over 500 members.