The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has achieved a historic milestone under the leadership of its Chairperson, Comrade Grace Ike, by facilitating a free eye surgery for former Council Chairman, Comrade Ndamadu Sule, at the prestigious Nizamiye Hospital, Abuja.
The surgery, which was successfully conducted on August 28, 2025, marked the end of a long and painful struggle with visual impairment for the veteran journalist, restoring his sight and improving his quality of life.
An emotional Sule expressed deep gratitude to Grace Ike and her executive for what he described as “an act of compassion and true leadership.”
“By December 22, it would have been seven years since my struggle began. I am overwhelmed with gratitude to the NUJ-FCT Council for spending their resources to help me. This is leadership in action,” he said.
The former chairman recalled how Grace Ike had reached out to him before the union’s elections, even though they had never met.
“I didn’t know her personally, but I prayed for her as a woman aspiring to lead the union. Today, I see those prayers answered. Her work in healthcare speaks volumes. I thank God she became Chairman and is fulfilling her promises with a human touch,” Sule added.
More Journalists to Benefit
True to her campaign promise of prioritizing the health and welfare of journalists, Grace Ike’s administration has extended the initiative to other members of the union.
Two other journalists — Mr. Nicholas Ngozichukwu of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) and Mr. Kamoru Odunlami of ITV — have been scheduled for free eye surgery at Nizamiye Hospital after undergoing medical assessments.
Some members who were screened but deemed unfit for immediate surgery were given medications and placed on follow-up care until they become eligible for the procedure.
A First in Recent Years
This health intervention is part of a broader welfare agenda championed by the current NUJ-FCT leadership. Through a strategic partnership with Nizamiye Hospital, the council is delivering free medical services to members — a groundbreaking initiative not seen in recent years.
Beneficiaries have lauded the union’s compassion and commitment, describing the project as a lifeline for journalists who often face health challenges without adequate support.
Grace Ike emphasized that the initiative reflects her administration’s renewed commitment to journalist welfare, aiming to foster a healthier and more humane media community in Nigeria’s capital.
With this landmark gesture, the NUJ-FCT Council has set a new standard for union leadership, proving that journalist welfare goes beyond advocacy — it requires action, empathy, and impact.