The Chairman of the FCT Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Grace Ike, on Thursday announced plans to introduce a health insurance scheme for members who are not currently covered.
She made this known during the official unveiling of the FCT Health Insurance Scheme for members of the House of Representatives Press Corps.
According to her, the council will work closely with the FCT Health Department and the FCT Health Insurance Scheme (FHIS) to make the programme a reality.
Comrade Ike praised the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Akin Rotimi, for sponsoring the health insurance scheme for about 130 journalists reporting from the House of Representatives.
She described the move as a strong step towards improving the welfare of journalists and called it a model that should be encouraged.
She said “On behalf of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Abuja Council, I warmly commend this historic launch of the Health Insurance Scheme for members of the House of Representatives Press Corps.
“Let me specially appreciate the foresight and leadership of Hon. Akin Rotimi Jr. for initiating this noble and thoughtful intervention, the first of its kind for this Press Corps. This gesture sends a clear and powerful message that journalists are valued partners in the democratic process, not just observers of it.
“Health insurance is not a luxury; it is protection. Media professionals work under intense pressure; tight deadlines, constant mobility, exposure to risks, and the mental strain that comes with covering governance and national issues.
“When journalists are healthy and secure, they are better positioned to discharge their duties with clarity, courage, and professionalism.
“This initiative therefore strengthens not just the welfare of the Press Corps, but the quality of democratic engagement itself.
“As we receive this support, we must see it as both encouragement and responsibility. We must redouble our commitment to ethical reporting, factual accuracy, balanced coverage, and constructive nation building. The public looks to us for credible information. The nation relies on us to uphold truth and accountability.
“Let this investment in our wellbeing translate into renewed dedication to excellence.
“To the House leadership, we say thank you for leading by example.
To our colleagues in the Press Corps, we say: let us rise to the moment and justify this confidence placed in us.
“Nigeria depends on a strong legislature. At the same time, Nigeria also depends on a responsible media. Democracy thrives when the media is healthy and alive to its responsibility. Working together with the legislature, we can strengthen our democracy”.
Chairman of the House of Representatives Press Corps, Gboyega Onadiran expressed gratitude to the Chairman, House Committee on Media and Publicity, Hon. Akin Rotimi Jnr, for his foresight, leadership, and commitment to the welfare of journalists covering the National Assembly, saying the initiative reflects thoughtful leadership that recognises that a healthy press is vital to a healthy democracy.
He also expressed gratitude to the Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat of the FCT, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, for her collaboration and openness in extending this important health coverage to members of the Press Corps, saying “Your support reinforces the message that healthcare should be inclusive and accessible to all.”
He said Nigeria is steadily advancing toward the goal of Universal Health Coverage, a system where every citizen has access to quality healthcare services without suffering financial hardship.
Onadiran said “today’s initiative is a practical step in that direction. It demonstrates that achieving universal coverage requires partnership, commitment, and deliberate action.
“Health insurance remains one of the most effective tools to protect families from catastrophic health expenses. As journalists, we are witnesses to the realities many Nigerians face when healthcare is not affordable.
“By enrolling in structured health insurance, we are not only protecting ourselves but also aligning with the national vision of sustainable healthcare financing.
“I therefore use this opportunity to encourage other professional bodies, media organisations, associations, and institutions to key into health insurance schemes. When organisations prioritise the health of their members, they strengthen productivity, stability, and long-term growth.
“To the management and staff of the FCT Health Insurance Scheme, thank you for your professionalism and dedication in ensuring a smooth rollout of this programme.
“To my colleagues in the House of Representatives Press Corps, I appreciate your unity and cooperation. Let us take full advantage of this opportunity and ensure its success”.
