By Gloria Ikibah
The Association of West African Legislative Correspondents (AWALCO) has nominated the Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, for a prestigious award in recognition of what it described as her outstanding leadership and contributions to the journalism profession.
The nomination was announced during a courtesy visit by AWALCO executives, led by the association’s President, Comrade Innocent Odoh, to the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Abuja. 
Odoh applauded Ike’s performance since assuming office, describing her emergence as the first female Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council as a landmark achievement.
He said her leadership had brought visible changes to the council and demonstrated the qualities required to inspire confidence and drive meaningful reforms.
“We are indeed very impressed and inspired. It takes somebody with this kind of courage and commitment, and someone who will take charge of things, and we are really seeing the change,” Odoh said.
He explained that the nomination followed extensive consultations within the association on journalists and media leaders who had distinguished themselves through exceptional service to the profession.
According to him, Ike’s achievements, including her previous role as Chairperson of the House of Representatives Press Corps, made her a worthy candidate for the award.
Odoh disclosed that AWALCO had initially planned to hold the ceremony last year as part of activities marking the 25th anniversary of the ECOWAS Parliament.
However, he said the event had to be postponed after the regional parliament scheduled a separate award ceremony.
He added that the proposed award was also part of the association’s efforts to deepen collaboration with the NUJ FCT Council.
According to him, AWALCO intends to partner with the council to organise seminars, workshops and conferences focusing on democracy, good governance, development and legislative accountability.
Describing the legislature as the backbone of every democratic system, Odoh stressed that parliamentary correspondents have a critical responsibility to examine policies, interrogate democratic processes and ensure that legislation translates into meaningful development for citizens.
With West Africa’s population exceeding 400 million people, he said stronger cooperation between AWALCO and the NUJ will create an opportunity to promote democratic values and strengthen governance across the ECOWAS sub-region.
Responding, Comrade Ike expressed appreciation for the recognition and assured the association of the NUJ FCT Council’s readiness to work closely with AWALCO.
“I really don’t take this award for granted. I’m honoured,” she said.
She emphasised the need for journalists to remain committed to the core values of the profession, including accuracy, fairness, balance and ethical reporting.
According to her, the media remains one of the most important institutions in any society and must continue to serve as a force for accountability and development.
Ike also challenged journalists to broaden their focus beyond traditional reporting areas and pay greater attention to issues capable of driving positive change across Nigeria and the wider West African region.
She reiterated that the welfare of journalists remains one of the key priorities of her administration.
The NUJ chairman also encouraged AWALCO members to uphold the principles of accountability and transparency in all their activities.
She assured the association that the council will support its initiatives through publicity and strategic collaboration.
Ike further urged journalists to critically examine emerging issues affecting democracy in the region, including electoral reforms and other policy proposals capable of strengthening democratic institutions.
She noted that issues with the potential to improve governance should be properly scrutinised and brought into public discourse.
“Leadership is not easy. If you are a leader, you must do everything possible to leave a legacy behind,” she said.
She also encouraged younger journalists to remain committed to changing public perceptions about leadership and service.
According to her, journalists must strive to tell stories that make a meaningful difference and positively impact society.
Also speaking during the visit, AWALCO’s Financial Secretary, Favour Olise, praised Ike’s leadership and urged her to continue mentoring young professionals in the industry.
“Younger ones not in age, younger ones in the journalism profession, carry them along as you are already doing and keep doing the good works,” Olise said.
She described Ike’s achievements as inspiring, particularly her efforts to attract reputable organisations to collaborate with the NUJ.
Olise added that the NUJ chairman’s leadership was contributing significantly to the growth of the profession and strengthening the image of journalism in the Federal Capital Territory.
AWALCO reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its partnership with the NUJ FCT Council, especially in advancing legislative journalism, promoting democratic accountability and supporting good governance across Nigeria and the West African sub-region.
