By Chioma Vivian James
In a heartwarming recognition of selfless service, humanitarian commitment, and professional excellence, the Laity Council of All Saints Catholic Church has conferred its prestigious 2026 Humanitarian and Service Award on the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike.
The award ceremony, held amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration at the church premises, drew admiration from congregants and community members who applauded the remarkable contributions of the accomplished journalist and advocate for social development.
The honour acknowledges Comrade Ike’s unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes, ethical journalism, community development, and her consistent efforts to promote the welfare of journalists and the wider society.
Although unavoidably absent from the event, Comrade Ike received the award in spirit and conveyed her heartfelt appreciation to the organisers through a message of gratitude and reflection.
Expressing profound thanks to God for the opportunity to serve humanity, she dedicated the award to the Almighty God and to every member of the NUJ FCT Council, describing the recognition as a collective achievement rather than a personal triumph.
Speaking in an interview shortly after receiving news of the honour, Comrade Ike commended the Laity Council for recognising her contributions despite her physical absence.
“I am deeply humbled by this honour. I sincerely thank the organisers for considering me worthy of this recognition and for fishing me out despite the distance. I do not take this gesture lightly,” she said.
Reflecting on the significance of the award, the NUJ FCT Chairman noted that true recognition comes with greater responsibility.
“It’s not just an award; it is an invitation to do more. It challenges me to remain committed to serving humanity and advancing the cause of journalism with humility, dedication and the fear of God.”
She further pledged to continue championing initiatives that uplift vulnerable groups, strengthen professional journalism, and contribute positively to national development.
The recognition adds another significant milestone to Comrade Ike’s growing portfolio of honours earned through years of distinguished service in journalism, leadership, advocacy and humanitarian engagement. Her tenure at the helm of the NUJ FCT Council has been marked by reforms, professional development initiatives, welfare programmes and strategic interventions aimed at improving the practice of journalism and promoting societal progress.
Receiving the award on her behalf was the Council’s Auditor, Comrade Rosemary Ukoko-Tega, who represented the NUJ FCT Chairman at the ceremony.
For many observers, the award serves as a testament to the enduring impact of purposeful leadership and compassionate service. It also underscores the increasing recognition of individuals who use their platforms not only to inform society but also to inspire positive change and touch lives beyond the newsroom.
As tributes continue to pour in, the 2026 Humanitarian and Service Award stands as yet another affirmation of Comrade Grace Ike’s growing legacy as a journalist, leader, humanitarian and advocate for a better society.
