IWD: NUJ FCT Chairman Grace Ike Urges Greater Investment in Women

By Iyojo Ameh

As the world commemorates International Women’s Day 2026, the Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Grace Ike, has called for deliberate investment in women as a pathway to building stronger institutions and societies.

In a press statement personally signed by her on Sunday, Ike said the 2026 theme, “Give To Gain,” highlights the importance of empowering women through education, mentorship, opportunities, and access to resources.

According to her, investing in women goes beyond supporting individuals, noting that it strengthens families, communities, organisations, and the nation as a whole.

“For me, this year’s celebration holds a deeply personal significance,” she said. “As the first female Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, I recognise that my journey has been made possible by courageous women who broke barriers, challenged stereotypes, and refused to accept limitations placed on their dreams.”

She noted that the theme perfectly reflects the reality that empowering women produces benefits that extend far beyond the individual.

“When women are empowered, newsrooms become more inclusive, storytelling becomes richer, governance becomes more responsive, and societies become more just,” she stated.

Ike commended female journalists across Nigeria for their resilience and dedication to professionalism and public service, adding that many women in the media are breaking barriers by covering challenging beats, shaping national discourse, and mentoring younger colleagues.

However, she stressed that celebrating women should go beyond symbolic recognition and translate into concrete action.

“We must intentionally mentor young female journalists, create safe and supportive work environments, provide leadership opportunities, and ensure that women’s voices are represented in decision-making spaces,” she said.

She also referenced the United Nations’ call for this year’s celebration, “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls,” describing it as a timely reminder that achieving gender equality requires collective responsibility from governments, institutions, media organisations, and communities.

The NUJ FCT chairman further applauded women within the union, the FCT media community, and across Nigeria for their dedication and contributions to national development.

She urged stakeholders to continue expanding opportunities and support systems for women, stressing that empowering women ultimately benefits the entire society.

“When women rise, journalism rises, our communities thrive, and our nation grows stronger,” Ike said.

She concluded by wishing women across Nigeria a fulfilling International Women’s Day, adding that when society gives to women, it ultimately gains.