AMMC partners NUJ On Infrastructural Development
By: Ebriku John Friday & Tera Peters
The Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC) has expressed its commitment to partner with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, on infrastructural development in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
AMMC Chairman, Chief Felix Obuah made the commitment when the NUJ FCT Chairperson, Ms Grace Ike, led her executive team on a courtesy visit to the AMMC on Tuesday.
Chief Obuah, while welcoming the NUJ members, expressed his readiness to collaborate with the Council. He recognised the vital role the media plays in informing the public on AMMC’s activities, which is helping the Agency ensure full compliance with the FCT master plan.
“I welcome you and your team to our corporate office today. I have listened to you and I just have to say that, I am indeed very happy to partner with the NUJ FCT. We need to partner together to be able to achieve our core and corporate mandate – and in partnering together, we support each other and grow together and educate the public, to attain infrastructural development in the FCT in line with the master plan of the nation’s capital city,” he said.
While expressing his willingness to support the NUJ FCT Council, Chief Obuah explained that current financial constraints makes it difficult to make any immediate commitment but hopes to accommodate the union’s needs in the next budget.
“Even though I am a bit handicapped to make any promise because of budgetary constraints, but in the subsequent budget, I assure you that whatever we can do to help your dream come true for NUJ and your members, the agency will do everything humanly possible to contribute their quota to the growth of the union in line with the FCT master plan
He also added, “You can write my office on what you feel we can do officially. I will also present it in the next budget and I will go to my superior, the Honourable Minister of FCT, and say these people visited me and came with a very solid, verified programme—how do we assist? Because whatever we are doing, with the media, the public would know and be able to key into it.”
Obuah used the occasion to congratulate the first female Chairperson of the Union since its existence and prays for a successful tenure.
Earlier, Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Ms Ike, thanked Chief Obuah for receiving her team and commended the AMMC Coordinator for the effective management and coordination of municipal services as well as infrastructural development in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
She used the occasion to commend his support for workers welfare which earned him the Employee Advocate of the year Award.
She said “ I must commend your leadership efforts in ensuring proper maintenance and sustainable management of the city’s infrastructure, utilities, and services”
She highlighted major infrastructural challenges currently facing the NUJ FCT Council and requested support to improve their facilities such as the completion of the Pentagon building, and a hall that can house more than 200 journalists during her monthly congress.
She also made a strong case for the NUJ FCT Journalists’ Village, which would offer journalists affordable housing and a suitable environment to carry out their work.
She said, “On behalf of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Federal Capital Territory Council, I express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering commitment to the welfare of workers, including media professionals. Your kind gestures and support have not gone unnoticed and have greatly encouraged us in our mission.
“Today, we come with a sincere appeal for your support towards the establishment of a Journalists’ Village here in the FCT. This initiative is vital for providing affordable housing, professional facilities, and a conducive environment that will enhance the welfare and productivity of journalists who play a critical role in our democracy.”
“We believe that with the AMMC’s collaboration, we can secure the necessary resources, land, and policy backing to bring this vision to fruition. Such a village will not only improve the living standards of journalists but also serve as a hub for capacity building, relaxation, and professional growth.”
“We appreciate your past efforts and hope to count on your continued partnership to make this project a reality, thereby restoring dignity and stability to journalists who tirelessly serve the public interest” she added.
