The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for intensified efforts to tackle insecurity across the country, improved protection of educational institutions, and urgent intervention in the persistent water supply challenges affecting residents of the nation’s capital.
The resolutions were contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the NUJ FCT Council Congress held on Saturday in Abuja and attended by more than 500 members.
The Congress urged journalists to continue reporting security developments accurately, objectively, and responsibly in the public interest while maintaining the highest standards of professional ethics.
It also advised media practitioners to prioritise their personal safety and the security of their families while carrying out their professional duties, stressing the need for vigilance, especially during daily commutes and field assignments.
Expressing concern over the growing security challenges facing the country, the Congress called on security agencies to intensify efforts aimed at combating crime and protecting lives and property.
According to the communiqué, government and security institutions at all levels must place the safety of citizens at the centre of their operations and policies.
The journalists further emphasised the need for transparency and accuracy in official security communications, noting that information released to the public should reflect realities on the ground and inspire confidence among citizens.
The Congress particularly urged security agencies to communicate incidents involving kidnappings, abductions, and other security breaches with clarity and honesty.
On education, the Congress called on governments at all levels to ensure full implementation of the Safe School Initiative, stressing that many attacks on schools and abductions of students could be prevented through effective enforcement of existing security measures.
It further urged the Federal and State Governments to prioritise the protection of schools by providing perimeter fencing, deploying adequate security personnel, including members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and implementing other necessary safeguards.
The Congress also expressed concern over the persistent water supply shortages affecting residents of the Federal Capital Territory.
It called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to urgently address the challenges and alleviate the hardship being experienced by residents.
The journalists appealed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, to strengthen engagement with media practitioners in the FCT, particularly on issues relating to security reporting and public information management.
According to the Congress, improved collaboration between government and the media would enhance public understanding of government initiatives and facilitate effective dissemination of information.
The Congress also urged the National Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists to organise regular seminars, workshops, and conferences on national security reporting to equip journalists with the skills and knowledge required to report security matters professionally and safely.
Reaffirming its commitment to public-interest journalism, the Congress pledged to continue promoting professionalism, peace, security, and national development while advocating policies that enhance the well-being of Nigerians.
