NUJ FCT Commends Transcorp Hilton For Hosting 2025 Press Week

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Council has commended Transcorp Hilton Abuja for hosting the 2025 NUJ Annual Lecture and Awards, describing the renowned hotel as a consistent ally of the Nigerian press.

Held on Tuesday, July 22, the high-profile event took place at the Borno-Rivers Hall, one of the hotel’s signature conference facilities, and brought together leading journalists, government officials, civil society advocates, and corporate stakeholders to reflect on the evolving role of the media in a democracy.

NUJ FCT Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, said the hotel’s support not only provided a world-class venue but also demonstrated a corporate commitment to strengthening democratic values, transparency, and public engagement through journalism.

“We are deeply thankful to Transcorp Hilton Abuja for recognizing the media’s vital role as the cornerstone of democracy,” Ike said. “Their generosity and hospitality were instrumental in the success of this year’s lecture and awards, which honored journalists and organizations that champion truth, integrity, and development.”

This year’s event, themed “Journalism in a Changing World: Media, Press Freedom, Democracy and Society,” featured keynote presentations by major national figures, including Minister of Housing, Ahmed Dangiwa, Nigeria Labour Congress President Joe Ajaero, UBEC Chairman and former Nasarawa Governor Sen. Tanko Al-Makura, Chairman of the House Committee on FCT Rt. Hon. Muktar Betara, and Vice President of NUJ Zone D, Adeiza Momoh, who represented the national president.

Also in attendance were veteran journalists, former NUJ chairmen, and media executives.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, who served as guest speaker, was honored with an award for his role in advancing gender equality in political representation.

During the ceremony, several distinguished individuals and organizations received awards for outstanding contributions to media development, democracy, civic education, and social justice.

Representing Transcorp Hilton, Assistant PR and Marketing Manager Ifeanyi Nnadi reaffirmed the hotel’s commitment to supporting institutions that promote democracy, human rights, and responsible journalism.

“At Transcorp Hilton Abuja, we view the media as partners in progress. We are honored to host the NUJ and will continue supporting platforms that celebrate excellence, promote dialogue, and strengthen democratic institutions,” Nnadi said.

His colleague, e-Commerce Manager Ijeoma Osuji, added: “We value the media’s critical role in shaping narratives and informing the public. Forums like this are essential to national growth, and we are proud to be part of it.”

Journalists at the event echoed this sentiment.

Odita Sunday, a correspondent with The Guardian, said: “Transcorp Hilton Abuja has proven to be a true friend of the Nigerian press.

We appreciate their kind gesture, and I can assure you that journalists do not forget this kind of support.”

Vice Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Yahaya Ndambabo, described the hotel’s involvement as “a strong signal that Nigeria’s corporate community can and should support the press in practical, meaningful ways.”

In recent years, Transcorp Hilton Abuja has hosted several press-related events and civil society forums, building a reputation for aligning with causes that promote inclusive governance and national development.

The NUJ said this year’s event surpassed expectations, noting that the lecture, awards, and networking moments created space for deep reflection on the threats and opportunities facing the media.

“We must protect our democratic space,” Comrade Ike concluded. “And that means working together—with institutions like Transcorp Hilton—to strengthen the voice of the media and defend public interest.”

PR Oduyemi Odumade