NUJ FCT Chair urges journalists to prioritise mental health amid work pressure

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Grace Ike, has urged journalists in the Federal Capital Territory to prioritise their mental health amid increasing work-related pressure in the media industry.

She made the appeal during the 2026 NUJ FCT Press Week Health Walk held in Abuja on Monday, themed “Mental Health and Stress Management in High-Pressure Work Environments.”

Ike noted that journalists in Abuja operate under intense pressure, including tight deadlines, late-night assignments, security risks, and the challenge of combating misinformation.

“We work late into the night to break news. We face danger to report the truth. We deal with angry leaders, fake news and tight deadlines. All this builds up stress that can make us tired, sad or even sick,” she said.

She stressed that the health walk was not only a physical fitness activity but also a platform for relaxation, interaction, and mental wellness awareness among journalists.

According to her, journalists must ensure they remain healthy to continue delivering impactful stories, adding that rest, hydration, counselling and wellness activities should become routine practices.

Ike also called on media organisations to provide safer working environments, improved welfare packages, and access to mental health support services for journalists.

She commended the organisers of the Press Week activities and appreciated sponsors and participants for their contributions to the success of the programme.

Former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Rotn. Evelyn Onyilo, also praised the initiative, describing the health walk as timely and necessary given the demands of the profession.

She urged journalists to take their well-being seriously while commending the organising committee for successfully coordinating the week-long activities.

Chairman of the 2026 Press Week Committee, Comrade Obas Esiedesa, also highlighted activities lined up for the event, including a free medical outreach and the mental health-focused health walk held on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

He encouraged journalists to continue prioritising their health while maintaining professionalism and unity within the media space.

The NUJ FCT Press Week continues with activities aimed at strengthening welfare, professionalism, and cohesion among journalists in Abuja.

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