NUJ Press Week Launches Free Medical Screening Initiative for Journalists

May 18, 2026 – Nigeria –

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory Council has launched its 2026 Press Week with a large-scale medical outreach programme providing free health screenings and consultations for journalists in Abuja. Organized in partnership with Nizamiye Hospital, the initiative focused on promoting the health and well-being of media professionals working under demanding and high-pressure conditions.

According to organizers, more than 300 journalists benefited from the outreach, which included consultations and screenings across several medical specialties. Healthcare professionals offered services in cardiology, ophthalmology, general medicine, laboratory testing, pharmacy support, and nursing care. Medical teams also stated that journalists diagnosed with serious conditions during the exercise would be referred for further treatment and specialist management.

NUJ FCT Council Chairperson Grace Ike said the programme highlighted the importance of journalists prioritizing their health while continuing to serve the public. She noted that media professionals often spend long hours reporting on public affairs while neglecting their own well-being. Ike described healthy journalists as essential to maintaining quality reporting and public service journalism.

The outreach formed part of the broader 2026 Press Week activities themed “2027 Election: Defending Democracy in the Era of Disinformation.” Organizers said the week-long programme would also include discussions on journalism ethics, media safety, public interest reporting, and the role of journalists in combating misinformation ahead of Nigeria’s next general elections.

Medical representatives involved in the initiative emphasized the importance of preventive healthcare and early diagnosis for journalists, many of whom work in stressful environments with irregular schedules. Doctors participating in the outreach reported cases involving high blood pressure, blood sugar concerns, and other health conditions requiring follow-up treatment.

The initiative also reflected wider efforts by the NUJ FCT Council to improve welfare support for journalists in Abuja. Recent programmes linked to the union have included campaigns to expand access to health insurance and broader healthcare coverage for media professionals.

Reference –

https://guardian.ng/news/press-week-nuj-fct-hospital-offer-free-medical-screening-to-journalists/