The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has expressed deep sorrow at the sudden passing of its former Secretary, Mrs. Rafat Idris, who died in the early hours of Friday, December 20, 2024, in Abuja after a brief illness.

In a statement signed by the Council’s Secretary, Jide Oyekunle, the news of Mrs. Idris’s death was described as a huge shock to the Union. “The NUJ FCT Council received the news of the sudden death of the former Secretary, Mrs. Rafat Salami, with a rude shock and disbelief,” the statement read.

Mrs. Idris was hailed as a dedicated and outstanding journalist who made significant contributions to the growth of the profession during her tenure as Secretary of the Council. “She was a great asset to journalism, a quintessential journalist who served the Union with unwarranted dedication and commitment,” the statement continued. “She was a peace-loving, easygoing person and a strong member of the Union. She was not only a remarkable leader but also a cherished friend to many in the profession.”

Her dedication to excellence in journalism will always be remembered, the statement added.

The NUJ FCT Council also extended its condolences to Mrs. Idris’s family, the Voice of Nigeria (VON) Chapel, and the entire VON management during this time of grief.
Rafat Idris served as the Assistant Director of Digital Media at Voice of Nigeria and was a key figure in the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria, where she had just been re-elected as Treasurer. She was also the founder of the Okenite Foundation for Special Needs Children.

Mrs. Idris, from Ihima in the Okenne Local Government Area of Kogi State, is survived by three children. She will be buried today at the Gudu Cemetery according to Islamic rites.