The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has organised a Mental Health Walk as part of activities marking the 2026 Press Week.
The walk which started from the Julius Berger roundabout and terminated at the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Utako, Abuja, was aimed at raising awareness on the importance of mental health and stress management in high-pressure work environments.
Addressing the union members shortly before the walk on Monday, the NUJ FCT Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike described the health walk as a strong message for journalists, especially those in FCT to prioritise their health while carrying out their professional responsibilities.
Comrade Ike, who said that last year’s walk focused on Press Freedom, explained that this year’s focus is on health because journalists face a lot of challenges, working late at night to meet story deadlines which has adverse effects on their health.
“We all know the challenges of being journalists in Abuja. We work late into the night to break news. We face danger to report the truth. We deal with angry leaders, fake news, and tight deadlines. All this builds up stress that can make us tired, sad, or even sick. Our minds and bodies need care, just like our stories need facts.
“That is why this Health Walk matters so much. It is not just exercise. It is a way to clear our heads, build strength, and support each other.
“As we walk together through the streets of Abuja, let’s share our worries, laugh, and plan better days. Simple steps like this can fight burnout and keep us sharp for the job we love,” she said.
Ike said for the journalists to be fit and stay alive, they must be able to manage stress effectively and that is the essence of the walk.
She said the Journalists must rest and maintain good mental health to be able to defend democracy. Saying that “a healthy journalist is a healthy democracy.”
“To my fellow union members: Make mental health a habit. Take short breaks during work. Talk to a friend or counselor if stress feels too heavy. Drink water, sleep well, and join events like this. We will push our leaders and media houses to give us time off, counseling services, and safe workspaces,” he said.
Speaking on the welfare of journalists, the Chairman said the welfare of journalists is the top priority of her administration. Noting that a journalist who is unstable in terms of remuneration and payment of salary cannot work well.
She stated that as part of welfare for the journalists, the Council, in partnership with Nizamiye Hospital, on Saturday conducted free medical care for over 300 journalists in the FCT.
“If you notice we carried out medical outreach on Saturday for over 300 journalists in the FCT. Some of them who came out for the healthcare did not know they had high Blood Pressure (BP) prior to that day. As journalists we do a lot and we are under paid,” she said.
Chairman of the 2026 Press Week, Mr Obas Esiedesa, said the week-long programme would also feature discussions and capacity-building sessions focusing on media safety, journalism ethics, and public interest reporting.
He appreciated the members for coming out en masse for the walk and urged them to remain active throughout the week.
