NUJ FCT Chair Grace Ike wins silent hero award, reaffirms commitment to ethical journalism
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Grace Ike, has been honoured with the Silent Hero in Management Award at the 8th Silent Heroes Awards Abuja 2026, in recognition of her leadership and contributions to the journalism profession.
Receiving the award, Ike described the recognition as both humbling and inspiring, saying it reflected the dedication, resilience and professionalism of journalists and media practitioners who work tirelessly behind the scenes to strengthen the profession.
She expressed appreciation to the organisers of the awards for finding her worthy of the honour, noting that she viewed it not merely as a personal achievement but as a tribute to journalists, media professionals and union members committed to promoting responsible journalism.
“I receive this Silent Hero in Management Award with profound gratitude, deep humility and a strong sense of responsibility,” she said.
“I consider this honour not merely as a personal achievement, but as a tribute to every journalist, media professional and union member who works tirelessly behind the scenes to strengthen our profession and advance the ideals of responsible journalism.”
The NUJ FCT chairman attributed the successes recorded by the council to teamwork, sacrifice and collective service, acknowledging the contributions of executive members, chapel leaders, veteran journalists and strategic partners.
According to her, the award serves as renewed motivation to intensify efforts towards improving journalists’ welfare and advancing ethical and professional standards within the media industry.
She stressed that journalists remain custodians of truth, defenders of democracy and advocates of accountability, urging media practitioners to uphold ethics, fairness and professionalism despite growing challenges such as misinformation, insecurity and other societal pressures.
“As journalists, we remain custodians of truth, defenders of democracy and advocates for accountability. At a time when misinformation, insecurity and other social challenges continue to test our society, our profession must remain guided by ethics, professionalism, fairness and public interest,” she said.
Ike reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening the welfare of journalists, promoting capacity-building programmes, encouraging ethical journalism, fostering unity within the NUJ and creating opportunities that would enhance the professional and economic well-being of members.
She dedicated the award to journalists across Nigeria who continue to serve with courage and professionalism despite difficult working conditions, while also appreciating her family, mentors, colleagues and others who have supported her leadership journey.
Describing the recognition as a fresh call to greater service, she said it would inspire her to contribute even more to journalism, nation-building and humanity.
The NUJ FCT chairman also commended the organisers of the Silent Heroes Awards for celebrating individuals whose contributions often go unnoticed, describing the initiative as a commendable platform that recognises selfless service, impactful leadership and excellence.
