…As Grace Ike-led NUJ Executive Seeks Collaboration for Developmental Reporting
Ebriku John Friday
The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) has pledged its partnership and unwavering support for members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council.
The pledge was made on Tuesday by NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer (CCCO), Olufemi Oladapo Soneye, while receiving the newly elected NUJ FCT Executive led by Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, at the NNPCL headquarters in Abuja.
Other members of the NUJ delegation present were Vice Chairman, Comrade Yahaya Ndambabo; Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle; and Treasurer, Mrs. Sandra Udeike.
In his remarks, Soneye congratulated the new NUJ leadership on their successful election and praised Grace Ike for breaking barriers as the first female NUJ FCT Council Chairman in 43 years. He also commended the peaceful and well-organized electoral process that produced the team.
“We want a vibrant media profession where people can practice well and be unbiased,” Soneye said. “We will support you in any way that would help you move the union forward. We are your partners, and we are here for you.”
In her address, FCT NUJ Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, emphasized the importance of fostering strategic partnerships between NNPCL and the NUJ. She explained that the visit aimed to deepen collaboration to advance nation-building and promote transparency.
“This visit represents not only an opportunity to strengthen our relationship but also reaffirms the critical role of partnerships between institutions like NNPCL and NUJ,” she stated.
Introducing her team, Ike noted their commitment to maintaining the highest standards of journalism while engaging stakeholders to ensure developmental and factual reporting.
Highlighting the NUJ’s vision, Ike underscored the need for collaboration between NNPCL, as a major driver of Nigeria’s economy, and the NUJ, which serves as the voice of the people and a platform for accountability.
“Our shared mandate for nation-building makes collaboration not only desirable but essential,” she said. “By working together, we can amplify NNPCL’s efforts in promoting transparency, sustainability, and innovation while fostering a deeper understanding of your work among the public.”
Beyond Occasional Interactions
Ike proposed practical areas for collaboration, including:
Media Tours: To showcase NNPCL’s achievements and projects to the public.
Policy Dialogues: platforms to engage stakeholders on critical energy issues.
Special Reports: Highlighting NNPCL’s role in Nigeria’s energy transition and national development.
She expressed confidence that such initiatives would not only align with NNPCL’s mission but also enhance public trust in its operations.
Recognising the fast-evolving media landscape, Ike called for NNPCL’s support in capacity-building programs for journalists. She noted that specialised training on energy reporting, data journalism, and oil and gas industry intricacies would empower journalists to deliver accurate and insightful stories.
“An informed press is better equipped to report fairly and ensure that the public understands the complexities of your operations and policies,” she added.
Ike assured NNPCL of the council’s commitment to promoting balanced and factual reporting that highlights the corporation’s contributions to national development.
“As journalists, we understand the power of narratives. We are committed to portraying NNPCL’s efforts accurately and positively, especially as you strive to reposition Nigeria as a global energy leader,” she said. “Together, we can counter misinformation and promote an informed citizenry.” The NUJ Chairman reiterated the council’s readiness to build a mutually beneficial partnership with NNPCL.
“We want to create a synergy that not only advances the interests of our respective institutions but also contributes to the prosperity of our great nation,” Ike affirmed.
The meeting ended on a positive note, with both parties expressing optimism for a fruitful collaboration that will drive development, transparency, and innovation.
