May Day : Grace Ike Seeks Urgent Action On Insecurity , Poverty To Boost Productivity

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has called for urgent and sustained action to tackle insecurity and poverty to boost workers productivity.

Comrade Ike who made the call in her May day message described insecurity and poverty as major impediments to workers’ productivity and national development.

“I warmly felicitate with all journalists and workers across the Federal Capital Territory on the occasion of the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration.”

“This year’s theme, ‘Insecurity and Poverty: Bane of Decent Work,’ is both timely and deeply reflective of the realities confronting workers across the nation.

“It underscores the urgent need to address the twin challenges of insecurity and economic hardship, which continue to undermine productivity, threaten livelihoods, and erode the dignity of labour.”

Grace Ike noted that journalists in the FCT operate under difficult conditions, often exposed to risks while carrying out their professional duties.

She commended members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council for their resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment to ethical journalism despite these challenges.

“In the FCT, journalists and media professionals operate within this complex environment, often facing safety risks while striving to inform, educate, and hold power to account.

“The persistence of insecurity not only endangers lives but also restricts access to information and hampers the ability of journalists to perform their duties effectively.

“At the same time, poverty and rising economic pressures continue to affect the welfare, morale, and overall well-being of workers. These issues must be addressed with deliberate and sustained action.”

She therefore urged government at all levels to prioritize policies that will enhance security and improve the economic conditions of workers.

“I call on government at all levels to intensify efforts towards improving national security and implementing policies that directly alleviate poverty.

Ensuring a safe working environment and providing economic opportunities that are fundamental to achieving decent work for all Nigerians.”

The NUJ FCT Chairman also charged media organisations and employers to improve the welfare of journalists.

She further emphasized the need for unity among workers and the role of the union in advancing their interests.

“As a union, we must strengthen our solidarity and continue to advocate for the rights, safety, and dignity of our members. Let us remain united in our pursuit of professionalism, accountability, and excellence, while using our platforms to highlight issues that affect workers and society at large.”

PR/Remi Johnson