By Emmanuel Oloniruha
Ms. Grace Ike, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has been honoured with the Humanitarian Award for Excellence in Service in recognition of her positive contributions to society.
The prestigious award was conferred on her by the Women of Glory Foundation, which described her as the “Most Active Journalistic Mobiliser,” in Abuja.
The ceremony was part of activities marking the 10th anniversary of the humanitarian organisation.
The Women of Glory Foundation serves as a lifeline for vulnerable women, including widows, elderly women, and single mothers through empowerment programmes, mentorship, skills acquisition, healthcare support, and faith-based guidance.
Speaking at the event, the Founder of the Foundation, Dr Nneka Nzewi, disclosed that the initiative was born out of personal childhood adversity and compassion.
“At a very young age, I lost my father. My mother was suddenly left to raise five children with no support system. I watched her fight every day to survive, to provide, and to keep hope alive when the odds were stacked against her.
“What she needed was not charity alone, but support, dignity, opportunity, and someone who believed in her potential,” Nzewi said.
She explained that the harrowing experience prompted her to make a covenant to dedicate her life to supporting women facing similar socioeconomic challenges if she became successful in life.
According to her, the foundation now boasts members across the 36 states of the federation, quietly driving humanitarian interventions and raising awareness on national development, gender-based violence, and socio-economic issues.
While presenting the award, the organisers praised the NUJ FCT chairman for her outstanding leadership in mobilising and orienting journalists toward proactive national interests.
Responding, Ike, who was represented by the Assistant Secretary of the NUJ FCT Council, Ms. Sharon Emephia, commended the foundation for sustaining its impactful humanitarian work for a decade.
“Ten years of sustained impact is no small achievement. It reflects resilience, vision, and a deep commitment to service.
“In a time when many initiatives struggle for continuity, your decade-long journey stands as a testament to purpose-driven leadership,” she said.
The NUJ FCT chairman expressed gratitude to the organisers, noting that the honour would further spur the council to champion societal progress.
“I receive this honor with gratitude and humility.
“I see it not just as a personal award but as a reflection of the collective efforts of the NUJ FCT Council and the values we uphold in promoting truth, development, and societal progress,” Ike said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Deji Abdulwahab
