Journalists in Abuja decry rising fuel cost, poor utilities

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has raised concerns over a number of socio-economic challenges affecting residents of the territory and Nigerians at large.

The concerns were highlighted during the NUJ FCT Council Congress held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, where members deliberated extensively on issues relating to public welfare and national development.

In its resolutions, Congress expressed concern over the rising cost of fuel and the hardship it has imposed on citizens. The union urged the Federal Government to urgently introduce measures to cushion the economic impact on Nigerians.

Congress also lamented the prolonged scarcity of potable water in several parts of the Federal Capital Territory, calling on the FCT Administration under the leadership of the Minister of the FCT to urgently address the situation to prevent possible outbreaks of communicable diseases arising from poor hygiene.

The union further decried the persistent problem of irregular electricity supply across the country, particularly in the FCT, and urged relevant authorities to take decisive steps to stabilise power supply in order to improve productivity and the quality of life of residents.

On workers’ welfare, Congress expressed concern that the new minimum wage approved for Federal Government workers since last year has not been fully implemented. It called on the Federal Government to expedite action on the implementation process to alleviate the economic difficulties currently faced by workers.

The NUJ FCT Congress also noted the resurgence of refuse heaps in several locations within the territory and urged the FCT Administration to ensure prompt evacuation and proper waste management to prevent environmental hazards and disease outbreaks.

Congress further expressed concern over increasing cases of deforestation in the territory, particularly the indiscriminate cutting down of Melina trees. It called on both government authorities and residents to promote tree planting and environmental conservation to mitigate rising heat waves being experienced in the FCT.

The union also raised alarm over the growing number of mentally ill persons roaming the streets of the territory. Congress urged the Department of Social Welfare and other relevant agencies to take immediate action to rehabilitate and provide necessary care for affected individuals.

In addition, Congress expressed serious concern over the increasing activities of “one chance” robbery syndicates in parts of the Federal Capital Territory. It called on the FCT Minister, security agencies and other law enforcement authorities to intensify efforts to tackle the menace and ensure the safety of residents and commuters.

The NUJ FCT Council reaffirmed its commitment to advocating policies that promote good governance, public welfare and sustainable development.

It also called on government authorities to urgently address the identified issues in the interest of the health, safety and wellbeing of residents of the Federal Capital Territory and Nigerians at large.

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