The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has been honoured with the Beacon of Education Award by Beautiful Beginnings Academy in recognition of her contributions to education, youth development and humanitarian service.
The award was presented during the school’s 2026 graduation ceremony held in Abuja, where parents, teachers, graduands and distinguished guests gathered to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026.
Presenting the award, the proprietor of the academy, Dr Rosemary Nasa-Okolie, said the honour was in appreciation of Comrade Ike’s unwavering commitment to supporting educational development and empowering young people.
She disclosed that the NUJ FCT Chairman played a pivotal role in the school’s successful participation in a national media quiz competition, which culminated in Beautiful Beginning Academy emerging as the overall winner.
According to Dr Nasa-Okolie, barely two weeks before the competition, the school required urgent support and reached out to Comrade Ike, who responded without hesitation.
She said beyond lending her name to the initiative, Comrade Ike ensured the pupils received the welfare, encouragement and logistical support needed throughout the competition, boosting their confidence and morale.
“She came in and changed the narrative. There is nothing I can give her that equals what she has done for these children,” the proprietor said.
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She described the NUJ FCT Chairman as a compassionate leader whose selfless service has positively impacted the lives of many young Nigerians, often without seeking recognition.
The academy stated that the Beacon of Education Award symbolises Comrade Ike’s dedication to educational excellence, youth empowerment and community development.
Visibly emotional after receiving the honour, Comrade Ike said the recognition came as a surprise and described it as a renewed call to greater service.
She dedicated the award to Adeze, a child whose story touched her deeply during the graduation ceremony.
“I dedicate this award to Adeze,” she said.
The NUJ FCT chairman pledged to intensify her advocacy for children living with special needs, promising to leverage journalism as a tool to amplify their voices and promote greater inclusion.
“I will continue to tell their stories and use my professional platform to draw attention to their needs so that society can provide them with the support they deserve,” she said.
Comrade Ike also commended Adeze’s family for their resilience and commitment, noting that their experience would continue to inspire advocacy for equal opportunities and inclusive education.
The presentation of the Beacon of Education Award attracted a standing ovation from guests and was one of the major highlights of the graduation ceremony, underscoring the importance of strategic partnerships among the media, educational institutions and the wider community in promoting quality and inclusive education in Nigeria.
