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.

CITN, NRS, AKIRS Hold Tax Awareness Seminar to Promote Compliance, National Growth

Chairman of CITN Uyo and District Society, Dcns. Idorenyin Charles William, FCTI, flanked by Chairman, AKIRS, Mr. Okon Okon; Chairman of the occasion, Elder Isaiah Ntekim, FCTI and others

By Kufre Akpakpan, Emmanuel Hanson and Uliang Essang

The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Uyo and District Society, in collaboration with the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) and the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS), on Friday, June 26, 2026 organised a one-day tax awareness seminar aimed at promoting voluntary tax compliance and supporting national development.

The seminar, held at the ICT Hall of the Office of the Accountant General in Uyo, brought together tax professionals, government officials, business owners and other stakeholders under the theme, "Tax Awareness for National Growth: Reforms, Compliance and Shared Prosperity."

In her welcome address, the Chairman of CITN Uyo and District Society, Dcns. Idorenyin Charles William, FCTI, welcomed participants and underscored the importance of tax education in strengthening Nigeria's revenue base and fostering sustainable economic development through improved compliance.

Dcns Idorenyin Charles William giving a remark

Delivering the keynote address, the Executive Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS), Sir Okon Okon, highlighted the critical role of tax reforms and compliance in driving sustainable economic growth and national prosperity.

He commended the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria for organising the nationwide tax awareness campaign and selecting a theme that reflects the importance of taxation to national development.

According to him, taxation remains the foundation of sustainable governance, while the current reforms are designed to simplify tax administration, eliminate multiple taxation, broaden the tax base and improve the ease of doing business across the country.

Okon further emphasised that, "we should tax fruits, not seeds; tax wealth, not poverty," adding that "data is the king" in promoting transparency, compliance and efficient tax administration. He also cited Anambra State as an example of prudent utilisation of taxpayers' funds to deliver visible infrastructure and social development.

Mr. Okon Okon delivering the Keynote 

Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, Elder Isaiah Ntekim, FCTI, stressed the importance of the country's ongoing tax reforms in enhancing public understanding and encouraging voluntary compliance. He observed that many taxpayers, including tax professionals, were still seeking clarity on the reforms, noting that the seminar provided an opportunity for experts to explain the changes.

"It's not about increasing the taxes. It's just that a lot of us who are supposed to pay tax have failed to comply," he said.

Participants also received a technical presentation by Mr. Ifiok O. Udo, FCTI, Managing Partner of Ifiok Udo & Co., on the seminar's theme, "Tax Awareness for National Growth: Reforms, Compliance and Shared Prosperity." He stressed the need for increased public awareness and voluntary compliance with tax obligations as essential drivers of national growth.

Attendees at the event

Another paper was presented by Mr. Victor Idakpokpo, Deputy General Manager, Tax Administration and Advisory, TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited, on the topic, "Nigeria 2025 Tax Reforms: Impact on Business Compliance, Taxpayer Obligations and Revenue Generation." He examined the implications of the recent tax reforms for businesses and taxpayers, outlined strategies for improving compliance and enhancing revenue generation, and noted that the new tax reforms exempt gifts from taxation.

The seminar also featured interactive panel discussions and question-and-answer sessions, providing participants with the opportunity to engage tax experts on issues relating to taxation, compliance and the implementation of the new reforms.

Organisers expressed optimism that the seminar would deepen public tax awareness, encourage voluntary compliance and contribute to improved revenue generation in support of both national and state development goals.

The event was preceeded by a street walk the previous day, with members of the CITN Uyo and District Society taking the message of prompt tax payment to markets and city centres.

Akwa Ibom Govt Sensitises Youth Leaders on Drug Abuse, Vandalism Prevention

 

By Tommy Emem and Aniekeme Ikwang

Akwa Ibom State Government has intensified efforts to combat drug abuse and youth-related crimes by sensitising youth leaders across the state on the dangers of substance misuse, vandalism, and other social vices.

The one-day sensitisation workshop, organised by the Ministry of Youth Development on Friday, June 26 at the Civil Service Auditorium, State Secretariat, Uyo, commemorated the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse. It brought together members of the Akwa Ibom State Forum of Village Youth Presidents and the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Akwa Ibom State Chapter.

Panelists at the event

The workshop, themed "The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses," focused on equipping youth leaders with knowledge and practical strategies to address emerging challenges associated with drug abuse while promoting responsible citizenship and the protection of public infrastructure.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr. Ekerete Ekanem, described young people as indispensable partners in building a peaceful and progressive society. He urged participants to become advocates against drug abuse, criminality, and the destruction of public facilities in their respective communities.

Attendees at the occasion 

Dr. Ekanem clarified that the occasion was not a celebration of drug abuse but a day set aside to raise awareness about its devastating consequences.

"There is nothing to celebrate about drug abuse. Rather, today is an opportunity to sensitise our young people on the adverse effects of substance misuse and encourage them to make positive life choices," he said.

Delivering the keynote address, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Noble Lady Helen Obareki, described drug abuse as a growing societal crisis that threatens families, communities, and the nation's future workforce. She stressed the need for collaborative efforts in addressing the menace.

She noted that the year's theme serves as an urgent call to confront both longstanding and emerging drug-related challenges through innovative and community-driven responses.

"This theme is not merely a slogan. It is an urgent roadmap that compels us to confront the silent warfare substance abuse wages against our families, communities, and the very foundation of our workforce—the youth. We must collectively rise to address one of the most resilient crises of our time," she said.

Participants were taken through a series of technical sessions by experts from relevant government agencies and institutions.

Speaking on road safety and responsible behaviour, CRC Nsembo Brown encouraged youths to imbibe safe driving habits, obey traffic regulations, and make responsible decisions capable of preserving lives.

The Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) delivered a presentation on youth-related crimes and anti-vandalism campaigns, highlighting the economic and developmental consequences of vandalising public infrastructure.

On mental health, Dr. Evelyn and Dr. Idongesit Ubi educated participants on the relationship between substance abuse and mental wellbeing, urging young people to seek professional help whenever confronted with emotional or psychological challenges.

Similarly, ASN Monday Otabor spoke extensively on drug abuse prevention, warning participants against the dangers of substance misuse and calling for sustained advocacy towards building a drug-free society.

Goodwill messages delivered by the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey; the Director of Administration and Supplies, Ministry of Youth Development, Mr Anthony Isonguyo; Special Assistant on Youth Matters to the Governor and State Coordinator of the Female Youths (Purple), Lady Edna Daniel and the Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Ekong, encouraged youths to shun substance abuse to enable them contribute meaningfully to the society.

The event also featured a panel discussion on the theme of the event and ballad presentation titled, "lifestyle".

The programme ended with a call on participants, to take the campaign against drug abuse and vandalism back to their communities in order to build a safer, healthier and more responsible Akwa Ibom State.

Goodwill messages were delivered by the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey; the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth Development; and the Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Mr. Emmanuel Ekong, all of whom commended the initiative and encouraged youths to serve as ambassadors of positive change.

The sensitisation programme forms part of Akwa Ibom State Government's broader commitment to youth empowerment, crime prevention, and sustainable social development.

Dignitaries at the event included the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Noble Lady Helen Obareki; Commissioner for Youth Development and host, Dr. Ekerete Ekanem; Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey; the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Corps Commander Felicia Kalu, represented by CRC Nsembo Brown; the State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Commander Nsikak-Abasi Udo; President of the Akwa Ibom State Forum of Youth Presidents, Mr. Itai James Abraham; Chairman of the NYCN, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Ekong; the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth Development, Lady Ethna; the Coordinator of Female Youth, Akwa Ibom State, alongside directors and staff of the ministry.

CHRAN Leads Anti-Terror Campaign in Uyo, Calls for National Unity Against Insecurity

 

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

The Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) on Saturday, June 20, 2026 staged a public campaign against terrorism in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, calling on Nigerians to unite against insecurity and support efforts aimed at restoring peace across the country. The campaign, themed: "Unite Against Terror," drew civil society advocates, legal practitioners and concerned citizens who stressed the need for collective action in combating terrorism.

Speaking during the event, the Executive Director of CHRAN, Otuekong Franklin Isong, described terrorism as a common enemy that recognises no tribe, religion, social class or political affiliation. He said the campaign would be sustained in view of the prevailing security challenges confronting the nation. Isong urged citizens to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies, stressing that, "when you see something, say something." He lamented that terrorism has brought untold sorrow, pain and division to many Nigerian families and condemned those sponsoring acts of terror.

Delivering an advocacy speech titled "The Masquerade Masked with Terror," the Executive Director of Vital Partners for Development, Dr. Victor David, described terrorism as a monster that has invaded Nigeria's national life, destroying livelihoods, education, agriculture and hope. He said fear had replaced peace in many communities, with farmlands abandoned, children forced into captivity, and classrooms silenced by insecurity. Stressing that Nigeria is stronger than fear, he urged citizens to reject terror, defend national unity, and work collectively with government, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and security agencies to build a safer nation where every citizen can live, work, worship and travel without fear.

Also speaking, legal practitioner Barr. Clifford Thomas said every Nigerian, including security personnel, children, women and families, has become a victim of terrorism in one way or another. He noted that regardless of how terrorism found its way into the country, Nigerians must recognise their shared vulnerability and unite in confronting the menace rather than treating it as a problem affecting only certain regions or groups.

Another speaker, Barr. Ubiere, called on Nigerians to join hands in ending violence by promoting peace, love and mutual understanding. He urged citizens to reject hatred and embrace values that strengthen national unity, insisting that lasting peace can only be achieved through collective responsibility and tolerance.

The campaign ended with participants reaffirming their commitment to supporting efforts aimed at tackling insecurity and promoting peaceful coexistence across Nigeria. Organisers expressed hope that sustained public awareness and active citizen participation would contribute significantly to the fight against terrorism and the restoration of lasting peace in the country.