NUJ FCT Chair Grace Ike Inducted into NIPR, Vows Ethical Leadership in Public Communication

By: Michael Mike

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Grace Ike, has been formally inducted into the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), a development she described as a defining step in her professional journey bridging journalism and strategic communication.

Speaking shortly after the induction ceremony in Abuja, Ike said the recognition represents both a personal milestone and an opportunity to expand her commitment to responsible and impactful communication.

According to her, the new role creates a strong link between her longstanding career in journalism and the evolving field of public relations.

“This moment marks not just a personal milestone, but a bridge between my roots in journalism and my forward march into the dynamic world of public relations,” she said.

With more than two decades of experience in the media industry, Ike has remained a vocal advocate for press freedom and journalists’ welfare. As NUJ FCT Council chairman, she has led several initiatives aimed at strengthening ethical standards within the profession while promoting the rights and safety of media practitioners.

Reflecting on her career trajectory, she underscored the importance of communication in shaping societies and driving national development.

“These experiences have taught me that communication is the lifeblood of society, building trust, shaping narratives, and driving change,” she noted.

The NUJ leader said her induction into NIPR would further strengthen her dedication to ethical communication practices across both journalism and public relations, especially at a time when misinformation and the fast-changing digital media landscape continue to challenge the credibility of information.

“As I join the NIPR, I bring this journalistic rigour to public relations — a commitment to ethical storytelling, strategic engagement, and amplifying voices, especially those of women in leadership and media,” she added.

She emphasised that modern public relations goes beyond image management to include reputation building, perception shaping, crisis communication, and fostering meaningful relationships between institutions and the public.

“In an era of misinformation, PR professionals must lead with integrity, fostering dialogue that unites rather than divides,” Ike said.

She also pledged to uphold the professional standards and charter of the institute, while supporting mentorship and professional growth for emerging practitioners in the communication sector.

“Together, let us redefine public relations as a force for good — transparent, inclusive, and transformative,” she stated.

Ike further highlighted the responsibility of communication professionals in safeguarding the country’s global image.

“As custodians of national integrity, we must do all we can to protect and project the image of Nigeria positively,” she said.

Other notable inductees at the ceremony included former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, Evelyn Onyilo; the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Leke Bayewu; and Ikenna Egwuatu, among others.

The event attracted communication professionals, media stakeholders, and industry leaders, underscoring the growing collaboration between journalism and public relations in promoting transparency, responsible communication, and national development.

NUJ FCT Chair Grace Ike Inducted into NIPR, Vows Ethical Leadership in Public Communication

Zulum Reassures Borno Residents as Insecurity Resurges, Vows Decisive Action Against Insurgents

By: Michael Mike

Governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, has reassured residents that authorities remain firmly in control despite a recent resurgence of insecurity in parts of the state, pledging a robust response to defeat insurgent elements attempting to destabilize communities.

In a statewide broadcast on Thursday, the governor acknowledged growing concerns following renewed attacks in some areas but insisted that the security situation remains manageable.

Zulum said the recent spike in attacks was largely a result of intensified military offensives that have dislodged insurgents from their hideouts, forcing them to disperse and attempt infiltration into local communities.

According to him, security agencies are already implementing coordinated strategies to counter the renewed threats and ensure that the insurgents do not regain a foothold in the state.

“The overall security environment, while tested, remains under control, and we are doing everything possible to protect lives and property,” he said.

The governor noted that although significant progress had been made over the past seven years in restoring stability and rebuilding communities affected by the insurgency, authorities have always remained aware that the threat was not entirely over.

Zulum stressed that the fight against insurgency requires collective responsibility, urging residents to strengthen cooperation with security agencies by providing timely intelligence and reporting suspicious activities.

He warned individuals who aid insurgents through information sharing, shelter, or logistics that the government would no longer tolerate such actions.

“Those who collaborate with these criminals are enemies of the state and will face the full weight of the law,” he said.

The governor commended the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices and dedication in defending the state, while also paying tribute to soldiers and civilian volunteers who have lost their lives in the ongoing conflict.

He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving funding to support operations of the Multinational Joint Task Force and other military campaigns against insurgents across the country.

Zulum further thanked Vice President Kashim Shettima for representing the president during a sympathy visit to the state following recent security incidents.

The governor called on political actors in the state to avoid exploiting the security situation for political advantage, particularly as the political season approaches.

He urged aspirants and their supporters to prioritise peace and stability over personal ambitions, warning that political divisions could undermine the fragile gains made in restoring security.

“As we look to the future and choose a new leader for our state, let us pray for a worthy successor,” he said.

Zulum also appealed to residents to remain vigilant during the final days of Ramadan and the upcoming Eid celebrations, advising citizens to observe their prayers within their communities and promptly report suspicious movements to security authorities.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preventing insurgents from regaining control of the state.

“Borno shall not fall into the hands of insurgents,” he declared.

Zulum Reassures Borno Residents as Insecurity Resurges, Vows Decisive Action Against Insurgents

ASHLEE MOMOH FOUNDATION HONOURS WIDOWS OF FALLEN HEROES

Comrade Philip Ikodor

The Ashlee Momoh Foundation (AMF), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the families of fallen military officers, has called on Nigerians to rally behind the widows of our heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation’s defence and sovereignty.

In a heartfelt statement during the maiden edition of the Foundation’s formal outreach, Princess Ashlee Omonegho Momoh, Founder and CEO of AMF, expressed the organization’s commitment to supporting the widows and their children. “We recognize that the peace and security we enjoy as a nation were bought at a price paid by your households, and for that, we owe you more than just a debt of gratitude; we owe you our unwavering support,” she said.

The Foundation, which was established in 2016, has been working tirelessly to support the families of fallen military officers. Princess Ashlee noted that the organization’s efforts are driven by passion and resilience, and that they are committed to honouring the sacrifice of our fallen heroes by supporting their families.

“We are not just a foundation and its beneficiaries; we are a family,” Princess Ashlee emphasized. “Today, I am incredibly proud that AMF is officially registered and powered by an extraordinary team that shares our vision and passion.”

The event featured a keynote address by Dr. Iwowarri Berian James, CEO of GoldenRays Energy Health Services Ltd, who spoke on the topic “Resolving Loss Trauma for Personal Freedom”. Dr. Iwowarri emphasized the importance of incorporating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) management as a basis for stabilizing the widows and their children.

The Ashlee Momoh Foundation’s outreach was marked by the presentation of food items, clothing, and cash gifts to the widows. The event was a celebration of the resilience and strength of the widows and their families, and a testament to the Foundation’s commitment to supporting them.

The Foundation has urged Nigerians to join them in supporting the widows of our fallen heroes, and to engage with AMF to share their needs and receive support.

ASHLEE MOMOH FOUNDATION HONOURS WIDOWS OF FALLEN HEROES