The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Madam Stella Okoh Esene, the former Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) in the FCT.
Esene, 64, reportedly died on Monday, October 6, 2025, at the National Hospital, Abuja, after a protracted illness.
Until her demise, she was a retired staff of the Federal Ministry of Information and later joined True Verdict Online Newspaper as an editor.
A native of Ubiaja in Esan South-East Local Government Area of Edo State, Esene was described by her colleagues as a dedicated, passionate, and trailblazing media professional whose work left a lasting impact on Nigerian journalism, especially among women practitioners.
In a statement issued on Monday and signed by the Secretary of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, the council conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the deceased’s family, colleagues, and the NAWOJ FCT chapter.
“The NUJ FCT Council is deeply pained by this loss. Stella was a pillar of strength and inspiration to many journalists, particularly the younger generation.
“Her leadership, courage, and commitment to the ideals of truth and fairness in journalism remain exemplary,” the statement read in part.
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The council noted that Esene’s death is a monumental loss to the journalism profession, particularly for women in the media who regarded her as a mentor, advocate, and defender of gender equity in the newsroom and beyond.
During her tenure as Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT chapter, Esene was said to have demonstrated uncommon zeal and professionalism, championing the welfare of female journalists and promoting the principles of ethical journalism across the territory.
The NUJ FCT Council praised her lifelong dedication to the media industry and her efforts toward improving inclusivity and professionalism within the Nigerian media landscape.
“Her death comes at a time when her experience and wisdom are most needed in the ongoing efforts to strengthen ethical standards and inclusivity in the media profession,” the statement added.
The council prayed for the repose of her soul and asked God to comfort her family and colleagues and grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
Funeral arrangements, according to the council, will be announced by the family in due course.
Esene is remembered not only for her professional excellence but also for her mentorship, advocacy for women’s rights, and unflinching belief in journalism as a tool for social change.
