By Victoria Attah, Correspondent
Journalists in Abuja on Saturday benefited from free medical screening and consultations as the Nigeria Union of Journalists commenced its 2026 Press Week activities in partnership with Nizamiye Hospital.
The exercise, held at the NUJ Secretariat in Utako, attracted journalists from various media organisations who accessed services including blood pressure checks, eye examinations, general consultations, laboratory tests and medical counselling.
The outreach marked the opening activity of the Press Week, which is expected to feature a series of programmes focused on journalism practice, democracy and public accountability.
Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, FCT Chapter, Grace Ike, said the initiative was designed to prioritise the wellbeing of journalists who often operate under intense professional pressure. She noted that media practitioners spend much of their time reporting on public issues, often at the expense of their own health, adding that regular medical checks are essential for long-term productivity and wellbeing.
According to her, the Council remains committed to welfare-driven programmes that support members both professionally and personally.
Medical personnel from Nizamiye Hospital provided services throughout the outreach, with specialists drawn from cardiology, ophthalmology, pharmacy, nursing and laboratory units.
Speaking during the exercise, Dr. Uzochukwu Chetachi explained that the outreach was intended to encourage preventive healthcare among journalists while also ensuring early detection of possible health conditions.
She added that participants who required further medical attention would be referred for appropriate treatment and follow-up care.
Some journalists who participated in the exercise described it as timely and impactful, noting that the demanding nature of newsroom work often leaves little room for routine medical attention.
The outreach also set the tone for the 2026 Press Week themed “2027 Election: Defending Democracy in the Era of Disinformation,” which will focus on the role of the media in promoting credible information ahead of the 2027 general elections.
During the opening remarks, Grace Ike urged journalists to uphold ethical standards in their reporting, warning against the spread of misinformation and disinformation in the media space. She stressed that accurate and responsible journalism remains critical to sustaining democracy and public trust, especially in an election-driven period.
Chairman of the Press Week Planning Committee, Obas Esiedesa, said the week-long programme would include a mental health walk, public lecture, awards ceremony, and a press club quiz competition for secondary schools. He added that the activities are designed to strengthen professional standards, encourage ethical journalism, and deepen public engagement on democratic governance.
The 2026 Press Week is expected to bring together journalists, policymakers, media executives and civil society stakeholders to discuss the challenges facing the profession and the broader democratic space in Nigeria.
