Chairman, Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has reaffirmed the council’s commitment to championing initiatives that will improve welfare and journalism practice beyond the FCT.
She stated this Tuesday at a one-day retreat entitled; “Strategic Leadership: Repositioning NUJ FCT for Impact”, organised for the leadership of the council in Abuja.
She said that in an era where journalism faced unprecedented challenges such as fake news, shrinking media spaces, and threats to press freedom, the union in the FCT must evolve to make impact.
The chairman said the retreat was a blueprint for the council’s transformation.
“We will harness strategic leadership through focused sessions on conflict management, effective leadership and office management as well as emotional intelligence guided by our esteemed resource persons.
“It will inspire empathetic leadership, bring innovative media strategies to sharpen our edges while offering profound insights on navigating journalistic challenges and conflict dynamics”, she said.
She also said that the tools and insights of the retreat would equip participants to navigate internal dynamics, foster harmony, and lead with empathy.
According to her, it will ultimately amplify our voices in championing journalists’ welfare and driving meaningful impact in the FCT and beyond.
“Today we delve into discussions that will sharpen our vision, strengthen our strategies and unite us for action.
“From welfare initiatives and media advocacy to empowering women in journalism and innovative event planning, we will emerge stronger, more resilient, and ready to lead”, she said.
In his presentation entitled; “Conflict Management in Leadership,” a former Chairman of the council, Comrade Jacob Edi said that leadership and conflict were inseparable realities in the affairs of men.
Edi said that in professional organisations such as the NUJ, conflict was often common due to the nature of journalism itself which encouraged critical thinking, independence, and engagement with power structures among others.
He recommended that a formal conflict resolution mechanism within the union be established and that leadership training in emotional intelligence and communication be promoted.
“Ensure transparency in decision-making processes, encourage inclusive participation in governance/union activities while strengthening adherence to ethical standards.
“Also ensure that those, who participate in the affairs of the council are celebrated and are on first line charge in case of any form of benefit”, he said.
Another resource person at the retreat, Moju Makanjuola, who spoke on “Emotional Intelligence in Leadership” said leadership was not just about intelligence and competence, but also about understanding people and managing emotions.
Makanjuola said the journalism environment was often prone to high pressure and she urged leaders to manage diverse personalities and opinions professionally.
She also said that ethical decision-making required calm judgment, public scrutiny and criticism adding that emotionally intelligent leaders helped maintain professional integrity and unity. NAN
