By Fatima Saka
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, on Thursday intensified efforts to revive press clubs in secondary schools by organising a media literacy and journalism quiz competition for students across the territory.
Beautiful Beginning Academy, Abuja, emerged winner after defeating Cedar Hall Academy, Lugbe, 8–6 in a keenly contested tie-breaker. Both schools had earlier finished with 205 points each at the end of the second round, forcing a dramatic decider.
The competition, which drew participation from multiple schools, tested students’ knowledge of journalism, media ethics, and current affairs, underscoring the NUJ’s commitment to nurturing young talents in the profession.
In the first round, Government Senior Secondary School (GSS) Garki scored 70 points, while GSS Gwarimpa recorded 80 points. Cedar Hall Academy posted 95 points, and Beautiful Beginning Academy led with 115 points.
At the end of the second round, GSS Garki scored 40 points, GSS Gwarimpa 80 points, Cedar Hall Academy 110 points, and Beautiful Beginning Academy 90 points—setting the stage for the tie-breaker between the top two contenders.
Speaking at the event, FCT NUJ Council Chairman, Ms. Grace Ike, said the initiative was designed to mentor students on how the media operates and to reinvigorate press clubs in schools.
She commended the participants for their performance and urged teachers to sustain press club activities.
“Teachers, please organise your press clubs and, once in a while, host events and invite the NUJ-FCT Council—we will come,” she said.
Ike noted that the programme would enhance media literacy, mentorship, and community engagement among students, adding that the council remained committed to creating opportunities that empower young people through educational and media-related initiatives.
Earlier, the Vice Chairman of the NUJ and Coordinator of Press Clubs, Mr. Yahaya Ndambabo, said the competition reflects the council’s dedication to promoting journalism, critical thinking, and responsible communication among youths.
“The NUJ-FCT Council remains passionate about strengthening press clubs in our schools. Through these clubs, students develop communication skills, confidence, leadership qualities, and an interest in journalism and public affairs,” he said.
Representatives of the Secondary Education Board, alongside teachers and other stakeholders, attended the event.
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Some students who spoke after the competition described it as a welcome development and the first of its kind, noting that it exposed them to the practical aspects of journalism.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards and cash prizes to the winners by the NUJ FCT Council Chairman, reinforcing the union’s resolve to inspire the next generation of media professionals.
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