By Gloria Ikibah
The Chairman Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has urged media professionals in Abuja to take their mental well-being more seriously, warning that the pressures of the job is taking a growing toll.
Comrade Ike made the call on Monday during the 2026 NUJ FCT Press Week Health Walk held in Abuja, where journalists gathered for an event focused on wellness under the theme, “Mental Health and Stress Management in High-Pressure Work Environments.” 
Addressing participants, Ike said the theme captured the everyday experiences of journalists working in the Federal Capital Territory, where demands of the profession continue to intensify.
“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,” she said.
She explained that the health walk was designed not merely as a fitness activity, but as an opportunity for journalists to unwind, connect and support one another in addressing mental health challenges.
“We must be alive for that story to be heard or read,” Ike stated, as she encouraged journalists to adopt healthier routines, including proper rest, staying hydrated, seeking counselling when necessary and participating in wellness programmes.
Beyond individual responsibility, she called on media organisations and industry leaders to play a more active role in safeguarding journalists’ welfare by providing safer working environments, access to counselling services and improved conditions of service.
Ike also praised members of the Press Week Organising Committee for their efforts in delivering a successful event, while acknowledging sponsors and participants for their contributions.
In her remarks, former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Evelyn Onyilo, commended the NUJ FCT leadership for incorporating the health walk into the Press Week activities.
She urged journalists across the territory to remain mindful of their well-being despite the pressures associated with the profession.
Onyilo further applauded the Chairman of the 2026 Press Week Committee, Obas Esiedesa, and his team for what she described as a commendable effort in organising the programme.
Also Speaking, the Chairman of the 2026 Press Week Committee, Comrade Obas Esiedesa, applauded the NUJ FCT Council and committee members for their commitment towards organising the week-long activities.
Esiedesa highlighted some of the activities lined up for the Press Week, including the free medical outreach held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, and the health walk focused on mental health awareness.
He encouraged journalists to prioritise their health and well-being despite the demanding nature of the profession.
The NUJ FCT Press Week continues with activities aimed at promoting professionalism, unity and welfare among journalists in the Federal Capital Territory.
The health walk formed part of a broader series of events lined up for the NUJ FCT 2026 Press Week, aimed at promoting professional development, welfare and unity among journalists in the capital.
