Harmony in Hope: NUJ FCT’s Easter Cantata Unites Leaders for Nigeria’s Renewal

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The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council turned its Utako Secretariat into a vibrant hub of faith and patriotism during its Easter Cantata Concert, themed “Renewal and Hope: Harnessing the Transformative Power of Unity and Progress.” Led by Comrade Grace Ike, the council’s first female chairman in over 40 years, and Secretary Jide Oyekunle, the event drew journalists, lawmakers, security personnel, and civil society leaders. Amid soaring hymns and fervent prayers, attendees rallied behind a shared vision for Nigeria’s future.

Grace Ike, a veteran ADBN broadcaster elected in 2024, has become a beacon for women in media with her fearless reporting and advocacy. “Unity is the glue that holds us together,” she said in her welcome address, urging journalists to foster peace and justice. “Journalism can transform societies, and we must uphold integrity to build a brighter Nigeria.”

Keynote speaker Elder Leke Abejide, Yagba Federal Constituency Representative and House Committee Chairman on Customs and Excise, championed President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as a “covenant with the people” to make Nigeria a global investment hub. “A leader must step on toes for a glorious end,” he said, citing the Yoruba adage, “Adun lon gbeyin ewuro”—bitter leaf yields sweetness after squeezing. Praising Tinubu’s bold moves like fuel subsidy removal, Abejide outlined steps for renewal: admit failures, take responsibility, seek solutions, harness resources, and act despite criticism. “The greatest glory lies in rising every time we fall,” he quoted Nelson Mandela, donating five standing air conditioners to the NUJ FCT in a gesture of support.

FCT Commissioner of Police CP Ajao Adewale urged responsible journalism, noting, “One sentence can create peace or ignite conflict. Use your freedom to build, not destroy.” Likening journalists’ risks to those of security operatives, he pledged cooperation for national progress. NUJ National President Alhaji Alhassan Abdullahi echoed this, calling for forgiveness and national interest in reporting. “Nigeria is our only nation,” he said, urging unity and security-focused journalism.

The Cantata’s musical performances and reflections amplified Easter’s message of rebirth, mirroring Tinubu’s vision for economic growth. Ike, a trailblazer, vowed the NUJ would hold leaders accountable while inspiring hope. “We’re storytellers of a thriving nation,” she declared, as attendees left uplifted by the collective call to action.

Under Ike’s historic leadership, the NUJ FCT proved journalism’s power to unite and transform, setting a hopeful tone for Nigeria’s journey toward renewal.