The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has called on the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to urgently intervene in the deteriorating infrastructure at the Council Secretariat in Utako, Abuja.
The appeal was one of the key resolutions reached at the NUJ FCT’s second Congress held on Saturday, April 12, 2025. Delegates at the meeting expressed serious concern over the poor condition of the facility, describing it as unsuitable for a professional union operating in the heart of the nation’s capital.
Citing Wike’s reputation as “Mr Project” for his track record of infrastructural development across the FCT, the Council urged the Minister to replicate similar efforts at the NUJ Secretariat. The Union also appealed for his support in completing the long-stalled NUJ Pentagon project — a proposed landmark building intended to serve the journalism community in Abuja.
“The current state of our secretariat is appalling. We are earnestly appealing to the Honourable Minister to undertake a facility tour and see for himself the infrastructural decay we contend with,” the Congress stated in its communiqué. “We believe that under his leadership, the Secretariat and Pentagon project can finally be transformed into a lasting legacy.”
Beyond infrastructural concerns, the Congress also highlighted growing socio-economic challenges faced by residents of the capital, including persistent electricity outages, high telecommunications costs, and worsening health outcomes.
Delegates criticised the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) for the unreliable power supply across the FCT, stating that it is hampering productivity and reducing the quality of life. They further called on the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to investigate the rising costs of internet data and voice calls, describing the trend as a significant burden on citizens.
The Council also raised alarm over the increasing rate of maternal mortality, which it attributed to harsh economic conditions and inflation. It urged the Federal Government to offer free maternal healthcare services to ensure the well-being of expectant mothers and reduce preventable deaths.
The Congress reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for both journalists’ welfare and public interest, pledging continued engagement with relevant authorities to address the mounting challenges.
The communiqué was signed by Odigie Ehidiamen Kelvin (Chairman), Kehinde Ayanfe, and Ebriku John of the Congress Communiqué Committee.
