WISA Mobilises Women for Greater Political Inclusion Ahead of 2027

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

The Women’s Initiative for Self-Actualization (WISA) has intensified its campaign for greater women’s participation in politics with a one-day Institutional Commitment and Engagement Forum aimed at strengthening women’s inclusion in Nigeria’s political processes ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Forum featured strategic sessions, including “Building and Activating Strategic Coalition to Influence Women’s Political Inclusion and Candidate Emergence Process,” which focused on strengthening a coordinated coalition of women-led organisations to collectively advocate for increased participation of women in political candidacy and leadership.

Participants at the training 

Another session, “Securing Institutional Commitment on Women’s Inclusion in Candidate Selection Process,” challenged political parties and other institutions to embrace internal reforms, commit to equitable nomination processes and establish accountability mechanisms for the fair treatment of female aspirants.

Speaking during an interview, Programme Director of WISA, Mr. Joshua Nya, expressed concern over what he described as the shrinking representation of women in elective and appointive positions, particularly in Akwa Ibom State, despite their significant contribution to electoral mobilisation. He noted that women often constitute the majority of campaign foot soldiers, but are rarely given commensurate representation when political appointments and decision-making positions are eventually shared. Nya said the situation was unacceptable, stressing that “any decision made without a justifiable percentage of women in it, is not a decision.” 

He said WISA, with support from Kenya-based donor agency, Urgent Action Fund Africa, was implementing a six-month strategic project designed to dismantle structural and institutional barriers limiting women’s access to elected and appointed offices. 

According to him, the initiative is not limited to the 2027 elections but seeks to influence political participation from the grassroots, including local government administration.

He lamented the low level of female representation across the country and in Akwa Ibom, noting that women secured only a small percentage of seats in the National Assembly during the 2023 elections. Nya further observed that Akwa Ibom currently has no female representative in the Federal House of Representatives, while only four of the 26 members of the State House of Assembly are women. 

At the local government level, he said, only four of the state’s 31 local government areas have female chairpersons, despite women accounting for a significant proportion of the electorate.

The WISA Programme Director, however, identified the numerical strength of women in the electorate as a major opportunity that could be converted into political influence. 

Citing voter registration data indicating that women constitute about 52.6% of newly registered voters nationwide, he urged women to harness their collective voting power to demand greater representation and support credible female candidates. 

He said the initiative was deliberately bringing women together across political, religious and socio-economic divides to build a united platform for political advocacy and participation.

Nya also urged women to look beyond the proposed 35% affirmative action quota, stressing that the policy should be viewed as a starting point rather than a limit to women’s political aspirations. 

He furthered that WISA’s capacity-building programmes were designed to equip women with the strategic knowledge required to understand political interests, build alliances, engage key stakeholders and position themselves as credible candidates. 

“If you see a position and you deem yourself qualified, vie for it. Go all out,” he said.

He clarified that while WISA would continue to build the capacity of women and facilitate access to strategic networks, the organisation would not finance political campaigns, purchase nomination forms or bankroll individual candidates.

According to him, WISA’s mandate under the Good Governance thematic area is to provide women with the intellectual, strategic and organisational tools needed to participate effectively in politics. He expressed optimism that by strengthening institutional commitments, strategic coalitions and women’s political capacity, more women would emerge as credible candidates and decision-makers ahead of 2027 and beyond.

Participants which consisted of select women in various professional groups, socio-economic and socio-political bodies featured interactive sessions with participants promising to up their game and be more involved in politics.

One Year, Lasting Impact: How Nsibiet John is Redefining Journalism Leadership in Akwa Ibom

One Year, Lasting Impact: How Nsibiet John is Redefining Journalism Leadership in Akwa Ibom 

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

Leadership is often measured not by the promises made at the beginning of an administration, but by the visible impact recorded along the journey. One year after assuming office as Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John has demonstrated that purposeful leadership can transform an organisation, strengthen professional capacity and improve the welfare of its members. Through a blend of accountability, partnership, infrastructure renewal and people-centred initiatives, the John-led administration has continued to give practical meaning to its commitment to building a stronger and more progressive NUJ.

At the heart of the administration’s achievements is an unwavering commitment to the welfare of journalists. Within one year, the leadership has committed over ₦8 million to the welfare of members, providing support and interventions aimed at easing the burdens faced by journalists and reinforcing the Union’s culture of solidarity. At a time when the welfare of media professionals remains a major concern across the country, the investment reflects an administration that understands that journalists can only perform optimally when their wellbeing is treated as a priority rather than an afterthought.

Professional development has also occupied a prominent place in the administration’s agenda. Not fewer than *200 journalists out of the Council’s membership of over 820* have benefited from different professional training programmes, with funding provided to support their participation. The trainings have exposed members to emerging trends and new areas of media practice, equipping them with the knowledge and skills required to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving information environment. This deliberate investment in human capacity is helping to build a more competent, adaptable and professionally grounded media community in Akwa Ibom State.

Beyond human development, the Nsibiet John administration has made significant progress in improving the physical infrastructure of the NUJ. Visitors and members returning to the NUJ Press Centre are now greeted by visible upgrades to facilities within the premises. The improvements are a fulfilment of one of the major commitments made during the administration’s campaign and reflect a leadership that has matched its words with action. By giving the Union’s facilities a renewed outlook, the administration is strengthening its institutional identity and creating a more conducive environment for professional activities.

One of the most symbolic outcomes of the infrastructure renewal effort is the recent upgrade and renaming of the NUJ Conference Room as the **Israel Umoh Conference Room**, in honour of Comrade Israel Umoh, the pioneer Chairman of the NUJ, Akwa Ibom State Council. The gesture reflects a deep appreciation for the sacrifices and enduring contributions of the founding fathers who laid the foundation for the growth of the Union. Beyond giving the facility a befitting identity, the honour reinforces the Council’s commitment to preserving its history, celebrating its heroes and inspiring younger journalists to build on the noble ideals of service, professionalism and unity.

The progress recorded has been driven by a philosophy of responsible stewardship. Rather than treating leadership as an avenue for personal benefit, the administration has projected the NUJ as an institution worthy of public confidence and partnership. This is why Comrade John has consistently encouraged government, corporate organisations and well-meaning individuals to invest in the Union, assuring stakeholders that resources committed to the NUJ would be responsibly managed and directed towards initiatives that benefit journalists and advance the profession.

One of the defining strengths of the administration has been its ability to build and sustain a productive relationship with the Akwa Ibom State Government without compromising the professional identity of journalists. Under Comrade John’s leadership, the NUJ has continued to position itself not as an adversary of government, but as a responsible partner in the development of society. The Union has embraced constructive engagement, recognising that journalists are not merely observers of governance but important contributors to policy conversations, public enlightenment, accountability and national development.

The relationship between the Union and the state government has equally yielded important welfare gains. One of the major concerns pursued by successive NUJ administrations was the payment of weigh-in allowances to journalists working in government establishments. Building on the advocacy of his predecessor, Comrade Amos Etuk, the Nsibiet John-led administration recorded a major breakthrough when Governor Umo Eno approved the payment of the allowance within the Chairman’s first year in office. The development brought relief to affected journalists and stands as a significant victory for media professionals in the public service. It also demonstrates the value of constructive engagement, continuity and purposeful advocacy in advancing the welfare and professional interests of Union members.

The administration has also continued to advocate professionalism at a time when the rise of citizen journalism and the widespread use of smartphones have expanded the information space. While acknowledging that citizen journalism has come to stay, Comrade John has maintained that professional journalism remains indispensable, particularly where accuracy, ethics, balance and public trust are concerned. His call on government institutions, corporate organisations and members of the public to engage trained and professional journalists underscores the NUJ’s determination to protect the integrity of the profession and distinguish professional media practice from unverified information dissemination.

The administration has equally acknowledged the unprecedented opportunities created for journalists through appointments into government, particularly as media aides. The growing presence of professional journalists within government communication structures has reinforced the importance of trained media practitioners in ensuring that public information is communicated accurately, responsibly and effectively. The cordial relationship sustained between journalists and the offices of the Governor and the First Lady has further created an atmosphere of mutual respect, cooperation and confidence, with the NUJ having no cause to raise concerns about intimidation or the use of security agencies to harass its members.

As Comrade Nsibiet John marks one year in office, the record speaks of a leadership that has invested in people, improved infrastructure, strengthened professional capacity, prioritised welfare, preserved institutional history and built bridges across government and the wider society. The achievements may represent only the first chapter of the administration’s journey, but they have already established a clear direction for the future. With over ₦8 million committed to journalists’ welfare, more than 200 members benefiting from professional training, visible infrastructure upgrades, the renaming of the Conference Room in honour of the Council’s pioneer Chairman and the successful facilitation of weigh-in allowances, the NUJ, Akwa Ibom State Council, is charting a course of renewed confidence. The task ahead may be demanding, but the first year has shown that under Comrade Nsibiet John, the Union is not merely moving forward—it is building a stronger foundation for the future of journalism in Akwa Ibom State.

Ibiono Ibom Christian Youth Forum to Promote Faith,Technology and Youth Empowerment

 

By Blessing Nssien, Peace Wilson and Ogini David

As the 28th edition of the Ibiono-Ibom Christian Youth Forum commences on Wednesday,  August 5, 2026, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Bro. Erikanobong Umoh has informed that the theme for this year, “Tech O’Clock,” is designed to equip young people with relevant digital skills while strengthening their Christian values and preparing them for responsible participation in an increasingly technology-driven world.

Speaking with newsmen in Uyo on Friday, July 31, 2026; Bro. Erikanobong Umoh, explained that the choice of the theme was inspired by the need for the church to remain relevant and responsive in a rapidly evolving digital age. He noted that contemporary church programmes must reflect emerging trends, particularly in technology, to effectively engage young people and provide them with practical knowledge that can improve their lives.

He stressed that the Forum which is targeted at youth development is for participants aged 15 and above. 

"The Forum seeks to provide young people with a strong spiritual, moral and practical foundation before they encounter the broader challenges of society", he said, expressing concern that many young people venture into the digital space without adequate guidance, exposing them to the risk of misuse, misinformation and wasted potential.

Addressing the perceived conflict between Christianity and technology, Bro Umoh maintained that technology is inherently neutral and that its impact depends largely on how it is applied. 

Drawing parallels with money and politics, he explained that technology can be deployed either for positive or negative purposes. 

The Forum will therefore guide young Christians towards responsible, ethical and productive use of digital tools.

“Tech O’Clock reflects the realities of the present age. The Church must embrace technology not only as a tool for communication and evangelism but also as a platform for innovation, entrepreneurship, skills development and economic empowerment", he stated.

"The programme will feature a blend of spiritual, educational and recreational activities, including sports, keynote presentations, music, variety sessions and practical skill-acquisition opportunities. These activities are expected to address contemporary challenges, encourage meaningful interaction and equip participants with knowledge that can be applied in their personal, academic, professional and spiritual lives", he added.

Responding to concerns about the growing influence of technology, the CPC Chairman argued that rejecting digital advancement could leave the Church and young people at a disadvantage, noting that technologically advanced societies have integrated digital tools into virtually every sector. He therefore and urged Churches of Christ within and outside Akwa Ibom State to prepare their youths to participate responsibly and competitively in the digital economy.

The Ibiono-Ibom Christian Youth Forum is open primarily to youths aged 15 and above, although younger individuals considered mature enough to benefit from the programme may be admitted.

Registration will be conducted manually, owing to the rural location of the camp and the need to ensure accessibility for intending participants.

NUJ Marks One Year of Nsibiet John’s Administration with Leadership Summit

 

By Godswill Emmanuel, Nathaniel Nanje and Joy Inyang

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, on Thursday, July 30, 2026 inaugurated a Leadership Summit for members of the State Working Committee and Chapel officers as part of activities marking the first anniversary of the Comrade Nsibiet John-led administration.

Chairman on the occasion, Barr. Onofiok Luke making remarks at the occasion 

The summit, held at the Patience Umo Eno Auditorium of the NUJ Press Centre, Uyo, was themed, “Journalism and Leadership: Balancing Editorial Independence with Government Policies.” It brought together union leaders, government officials, media professionals and resource persons to examine the responsibilities of journalists as professionals and leaders within the union.

Chief Press Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Ekerette Udoh giving his remarks 

Former Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke, who chaired the opening session, urged participants to approach the summit with open minds and a strong commitment to learning. He noted that effective leadership requires continuous capacity building, adding that union leaders may struggle to respond adequately to emerging challenges without the requisite knowledge and skills.

Commissioner for Information,  Rt Hon. Aniekan Umanah exchanging pleasantries with his predecessor, Barr. Ini Ememobong

Luke formally declared the summit open and charged participants to take advantage of the wealth of experience and knowledge offered by the resource persons, stressing that leadership development remains essential to the growth and effectiveness of any organisation.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the NUJ, Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, reflected on the challenges of leading journalists amid unresolved welfare concerns. While acknowledging that some expected welfare packages were yet to be secured, he expressed optimism that the union’s constructive engagement with the state government would yield positive results.

John said Governor Umo Eno had assured the union that some of its concerns would receive attention, adding that the leadership remained committed to strengthening professionalism, welfare and unity among journalists in the state. He thanked the resource persons and members for their support and participation, describing the summit as an opportunity for union leaders to broaden their knowledge and explore opportunities available to media professionals.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Sunny James, commended the longstanding relationship between the NLC and the NUJ. He reminded participants that the applause and recognition associated with leadership positions are temporary, noting that leaders must sometimes make difficult decisions without the benefit of public approval.

L-R: Mr. Ekerette Udoh, Ralph Edem, Nsibiet John and Barr. Onofiok Luke on the Head Table

James called for renewed investment in investigative journalism and urged the NUJ to prioritise the training of its members in computer-based testing, digital skills and computer literacy to enhance their capacity and competitiveness in the evolving media landscape.

State Chairman, NULGE, Comrade Anestina Iweh

The Commissioner for Information, Akwa Ibom State, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, who delivered the keynote address, described leadership as the capacity to identify and address the needs of followers. He recalled his involvement in pioneering a journalists’ housing estate in Lagos at a time when many media practitioners could not afford to own homes and highlighted efforts aimed at improving the welfare of journalists in Akwa Ibom State.

State Chairman, NAWOJ, Comrade Nsikak Okon giving a Goodwill Message 

Umanah said the summit’s theme underscored the important relationship between the government and the media, stressing that editorial independence entails the freedom to pursue truth and uphold professional standards without compromise. He urged the NUJ leadership to establish a comprehensive journalists’ cooperative that would incorporate savings, insurance and retirement planning for members.

Press Secretary,  Office of the First Lady, Comrade Uduak Ekong 

Speaking on leadership within the union, veteran journalist and pioneer member of the NUJ, Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Comfort Umanah, noted that leadership had evolved into a recognised field of study in tertiary institutions. She stressed that occupying a leadership position in the union does not absolve any journalist of professional responsibilities.

State Chairman,  NIPR, Comrade Manasseh Umoette

Umanah advised union leaders to acquaint themselves with the NUJ’s organisational structure and affiliate bodies, while remaining open to constructive criticism, even when it is uncomfortable. She described the relationship between leadership and management as a continuous balancing act that requires wisdom, discipline and adaptability.

Representative of NUJ South South,  Comrade Gabriel Ekaidem

The Leadership Summit is the first of three major events lined up to commemorate the first anniversary of the Comrade Nsibiet John-led administration.

State Secretary of the Union, Comrade Nsikak Esenowo with his co-compere, Comrade Emaido Affia

The anniversary programme reflects the administration’s commitment to strengthening leadership capacity, advancing members’ welfare, promoting professionalism and fostering greater unity among journalists in Akwa Ibom State as the Council marks one year of the current administration.

Comfort Umanah: The Woman who Speaks Leadership with Experience

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

Comrade Comfort Umanah is not merely a pioneer member of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council; she is one of the resilient women whose contributions helped to lay the foundation for the growth, stability and enduring relevance of the Union. A trailblazer, seasoned broadcaster and accomplished unionist, Comrade Umanah has remained a steady voice of wisdom and institutional memory through several administrations. Her selection as a resource person at the NUJ Leadership Summit for members of the State Working Committee and Chapel officers, held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at the NUJ Press Centre, Uyo, was therefore a fitting recognition of a woman whose years of service have earned her the respect of generations within the profession.

Delivering a lecture on the topic, “Understanding Leadership in the Union”, the veteran journalist brought to the gathering a rare blend of knowledge, experience, conviction and practical insight. With the confidence of a woman who has served the profession with distinction and the warmth of a mentor committed to raising others, she described leadership as a broad and dynamic responsibility that begins with the individual. Drawing from her exposure to leadership training at the Meridian International Centre in Washington, DC, and the Galilee International Management Institute in Israel, Comrade Umanah maintained that leadership is not merely about occupying an office or wielding authority, but about providing direction, influencing others positively and making decisions that advance the collective good.

She reminded elected and appointed officers that leadership in the NUJ demands a clear understanding of the organisation and the responsibilities attached to every position. According to her, the NUJ occupies a unique place as both a professional body and a trade union, making it necessary for leaders to understand when and how to balance professional ethics with union responsibilities. She stressed that knowledge of the Union’s constitution is fundamental to effective leadership, describing it as indispensable to a union leader, just as an understanding of the Scriptures is essential to a Christian seeking to live by the principles of the faith. She also urged leaders to study the operational guidelines of their workplaces and understand the systems within which their members function.

Speaking with the candour of a woman who understands that leadership must be anchored on service rather than privilege, Comrade Umanah emphasised that the strength of a leader is reflected in the quality, enlightenment and confidence of the people being led. She urged union officers to empower members with knowledge of their rights, responsibilities, work ethics, staff handbooks, circulars and conditions of service. She also made it clear that occupying a union office does not confer immunity from accountability, insisting that discipline, humility, integrity and good conduct remain the true measures of successful leadership.

On financial responsibility, the respected media professional delivered a firm warning against the culture of pretence and artificial lifestyles that could lure union leaders into financial misconduct. She condemned any attempt to conceal impropriety through the delay or manipulation of audit reports, stressing that transparency must remain non-negotiable in the management of union resources. Her message was clear: leadership without honesty ultimately loses its moral authority. She therefore encouraged officers to promote the prompt payment of members’ statutory obligations and explore sustainable income-generating ventures, including cooperative initiatives and prudent investments, to strengthen the financial independence of the Union and reduce vulnerability to external influence.

Comrade Umanah also spoke passionately about the responsibility of the NUJ to preserve its integrity as the “watchdog of society.” She cautioned leaders against allowing the Union to become an instrument of propaganda for political interests or powerful individuals, maintaining that while the Union must build constructive relationships with government and other stakeholders, journalists must retain the freedom and courage to serve as the conscience of society. She urged leaders to accommodate criticism, listen to divergent opinions and avoid responding to every disagreement with anger, drawing strength from the biblical counsel in James 1:19 that every person should be “swift to hear, slow to speak and slow to wrath.”

With her rich professional background at the Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation (AKBC) and her current role at Redemption FM, Comrade Comfort Umanah stands as an inspiring model of excellence, resilience and purposeful leadership for emerging journalists. Her career reflects the strength of a woman who has not only witnessed the evolution of the media profession and the NUJ in Akwa Ibom State, but has contributed meaningfully to their growth. Her lecture was more than an academic presentation; it was a timely charge to leaders to serve with courage, lead with integrity and remember that power is temporary. In her closing admonition, she reminded participants that no position is permanent and that every leadership opportunity is held in trust—a message that resonated as both the counsel of a respected union elder and the enduring wisdom of a woman whose legacy continues to inspire the Press.

Akara, kuli-kuli and Groundnut trend not funny

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

Those jumping on the maize, akara and kuli-kuli trend are, in my opinion, only rubbing salt into our already wounded sensibilities.

It is not enough that the First Lady has seemingly sized us up and pointed us toward the trenches. Isn't that what we call see finish?

At a time when the rest of the world is racing to embrace technological innovation and economic advancement, we are being encouraged to adopt an outdated survival strategy—and, instead of questioning it, we're making memes and catching cruise with it.

I understand that Nigerians often use humour to cope with painful realities. It is one of our greatest coping mechanisms. But not every issue should be laughed away, and this is one of them.

I can confidently say that none of those frying akara, selling kuli-kuli or roasting corn would willingly choose that path if better opportunities existed. Why would anyone deliberately wake up at 4:00 a.m. to sort and wash beans, head to the mill before dawn despite the prevailing insecurity, return home to endure hours in front of scorching fire and hot oil, and then still hawk the products if customers don't come?

Or what exactly is amusing about sitting in the cold, frantically fanning burning charcoal to roast corn while enduring smoke, heat and flying sparks that leave burns on the skin?

Which of these alternatives can Her Excellency realistically attempt herself?

More importantly, how many women in the akara, kuli-kuli or corn-roasting socioeconomic class can comfortably send their children to even a modest private school? How many can pay rent without anxiety, feed their families consistently, or afford life-saving medical treatment if their husbands become financially incapacitated?

May we never find ourselves in such circumstances. I reject and refuse it with every fibre of my being. Neither my biological sisters nor my sisters by circumstance should ever have to endure such a life.

To our mothers, aunties and sisters whose youthful glow has faded under the weight of this backbreaking labour; to women whose dignity and feminine charm have been eroded by an economy that continues to fail them, all I can sincerely say is, "Sorry." "E go beta". Abi wetin I wan talk pass that one?

Nigeria is not for the faint-hearted, and this is yet another reminder.

We cry daily about insecurity, banditry, unemployment, the unbearable cost of living and incessant fuel price hikes. Now, we're asked to go find a means of survival...it is finished!

This must be the reason Jesus wept—in capital letters.

World Breastfeeding Week 2026: IOM Coalition Rolls out Medical Mission Across 20 LGAs

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

Residents of 20 Local Government Areas in Akwa Ibom State are set to benefit from free integrated healthcare services as the Ibom Open Maternity (IOM) Coalition has concluded arrangements for the 2026 Ibom Open Maternity Project in commemoration of the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week.

The coalition announced that the medical outreach will run from August 3 to August 13, 2026, following a review of its initial implementation plan. 

According to the IOM Core Technical Team, some Local Government Areas originally listed for the programme were dropped to enable the coalition channel available resources toward delivering a more impactful intervention in the final 20 benefiting LGAs.

Activities will officially commence on Saturday, August 1, with an Advocacy Road Walk in Uyo aimed at creating public awareness and mobilizing residents for the World Breastfeeding Week celebration and the statewide medical mission.

The outreach will begin on August 3 in Ukanafun and Oruk Anam, before moving to Ikono and Ini on August 4, Nsit Ibom and Nsit Ubium on August 5, Oron and Urue-Offong/Oruko on August 6, Ikot Abasi and Mkpat Enin on August 7, and Nsit Atai and Ibesikpo Asutan on August 8. After a one-day break, medical teams will continue the exercise in Itu and Ibiono Ibom on August 10, Esit Eket and Ibeno on August 11, Abak and Ika on August 12, before concluding in Ikot Ekpene and Essien Udim on August 13.

The programme will climax with a grand finale in Uyo on August 14, marking the end of two weeks of free medical consultations, maternal and child health interventions, public health education, and advocacy activities designed to promote healthier families and communities across the state.

Speaking on the initiative, the Team Lead and Coordinator of the Ibom Open Maternity Project, Aniekeme George, said the coalition remains committed to expanding access to quality healthcare for pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and other vulnerable groups. He encouraged residents of the participating Local Government Areas to take advantage of the free services, noting that the intervention is intended to reduce maternal and infant mortality while improving health outcomes across Akwa Ibom State.

George also expressed appreciation to partner organizations, relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, as well as the chairmen of the participating Local Government Areas for their collaboration and support, describing their contributions as instrumental to the successful planning and implementation of the 2026 Ibom Open Maternity Project.