By Chioma Vivian James
The Chairman of Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Grace Ike, has called on journalists to prioritize their mental well-being and embrace healthier lifestyles in the face of increasing workplace pressure and emotional stress associated with the profession.
Speaking during the 2026 NUJ FCT Health Walk held as part of the ongoing Press Week activities in Abuja, Comrade Ike said the theme of this year’s walk,
“Mental Health and Stress Management in High-Pressure Work Environments,” directly reflects the realities faced daily by media professionals.
According to her, journalism in Abuja and across Nigeria comes with enormous demands, including working late hours to break stories, confronting dangerous situations in pursuit of truth, dealing with misinformation, political pressure, and meeting strict deadlines — all of which take a serious toll on the mental and physical health of journalists.
She stressed that prolonged stress can lead to exhaustion, anxiety, depression, and other health complications if not properly managed.
“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 these build up stress that can make us tired, sad, or even sick,” she said.
The NUJ chairman emphasized that the Health Walk goes beyond physical exercise, describing it as a platform for journalists to reconnect, support one another, and promote a culture of wellness within the profession.
“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,” she added.
She encouraged journalists to adopt healthy habits such as taking short breaks during work, seeking counseling when overwhelmed, staying hydrated, getting adequate rest, and participating in wellness initiatives organized by the union.
Comrade Ike also pledged that the union would continue advocating for improved working conditions, including mental health support services, safer work environments, and adequate rest periods for media practitioners.
“We must be alive for our stories to be heard or read,” she stated passionately.
She further commended the Press Week Organizing Committee for successfully putting the event together and appreciated sponsors and participants for supporting the initiative.
“Your steps make us stronger as a team. Let’s walk with energy. Let’s make this Press Week one to remember. Together, we will stay healthy, happy, and ready to serve Nigeria,” she concluded.
Also speaking, former National President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, Evelyn Onyilo commended the NUJ FCT Council under the leadership of Grace Ike for what she described as transformative and purpose-driven leadership.
She noted that the last two years of the current executive had witnessed significant infrastructural development as well as improved welfare for members of the union.
Onyilo specifically highlighted the ongoing construction of the NUJ FCT Secretariat complex, describing it as a landmark achievement that would strengthen the union and provide a lasting legacy for journalists in the Federal Capital Territory. She appealed to government institutions and well-meaning individuals to support the completion of the project.
“The leadership of Grace Ike has brought visible progress to the council. The infrastructural development and attention to members’ welfare are commendable. The Secretariat project is a major achievement that deserves support from government and well-meaning Nigerians,” she said.
She also urged journalists and media professionals to make both their physical and mental health a priority, stressing that the demands of the profession require practitioners to maintain healthy lifestyles in order to remain productive and effective.
The Health Walk attracted journalists, media executives, union members, and stakeholders from across the FCT, all united in promoting wellness, unity, and mental health awareness within the media industry.
