By Israella Njasi, Abuja
Education Trailblazer: Beautiful Beginning Academy Celebrates Grace Ike’s Impact on Children
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has received the “Beacon of Education Award” from Beautiful Beginning Academy for her remarkable contribution to educational development, youth empowerment and support for children’s advancement.
The award was presented on Friday at Nile University, Abuja, during the academy’s 2026 graduation ceremony, where the school recognised Ike’s outstanding support that contributed to the success of its pupils at a national media quiz competition.
Beautiful Beginning Academy had emerged as the overall winner of the competition after receiving assistance from the NUJ FCT Council under Ike’s leadership.
Presenting the award, the Proprietor and Managing Director of the Academy, Dr. Mrs. Rosemary Nasa Okolie, described Comrade Ike as a compassionate leader whose selfless interventions have continued to create opportunities for children to excel.
She explained that after reaching out for support barely two weeks before the national competition, Ike responded positively by providing the necessary encouragement, welfare assistance and logistics to ensure the pupils were fully prepared.
According to Okolie, Ike’s intervention boosted the confidence of the children and played a significant role in their eventual victory.
“She came in and changed the narrative. There is nothing I can give her that equals what she has done for these children,” she said.
The Academy said the honour was a reflection of Ike’s commitment to promoting education, nurturing young talents and supporting initiatives that improve the lives of children.
Receiving the award, an emotional Comrade Grace Ike described the recognition as unexpected and dedicated the honour to Ms. Adaeze Tochukwu Taha Okeke, a special-needs student whose story touched her deeply during the graduation ceremony.
“I dedicate this award to Adaeze,” Ike said.
She pledged to continue using her position and the power of journalism to advocate for children with special needs, amplify their voices and draw attention to the support required to help them achieve their dreams.
Ike also commended Adaeze’s family for their commitment and resilience, promising to sustain advocacy for inclusion, equal opportunities and a society where every child has access to quality education and support.
The presentation of the award attracted applause from parents, teachers, graduates and guests, highlighting the growing impact of partnerships between the media, education sector and community leaders in shaping the future of Nigerian children.
