AKSU Intellectual Feast: NUJ Chairman Urges Students to Harness Information, Discourse for National Development

 

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, has urged students of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) to harness the power of credible information and intellectual discourse to shape the future and contribute meaningfully to national development.

John made the call while delivering a keynote address titled “Architects of Tomorrow: Shaping the Future Through Information and Intellectual Discourse” at the 2026 Intellectual Feast organised by the Student Union Government (SUG) of AKSU, Obio Akpa Campus, on Thursday, August 6, 2026. He said the future was neither accidental nor inevitable, but was deliberately designed through the quality of ideas generated, knowledge acquired and conversations undertaken by society.

Represented by the Managing Editor of The Ink Newspaper, Comrade Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot, the NUJ Chairman described information and rigorous intellectual discourse as “twin pillars” of innovation, democracy, scientific advancement, economic prosperity and sustainable development. He cautioned students against confusing the abundance of information available in the digital age with knowledge, stressing that information becomes valuable only when it is verified, interpreted and responsibly applied. He identified reduction of ignorance, expansion of opportunities and improved foresight as key benefits of credible information.

According to him, intellectual discourse transforms information into wisdom by subjecting ideas to evidence, logic, critical examination and constructive debate. He urged the students to cultivate intellectual curiosity, develop critical thinking, participate in respectful dialogue and, most importantly, translate knowledge into practical solutions through research, innovation, entrepreneurship and public service. He noted that “information provides the building blocks, while intellectual discourse provides the blueprint” for societal transformation.

John further challenged the students to become informed citizens, rather than passive consumers of information, warning that misinformation, manipulated narratives and digital propaganda could influence elections, destabilise economies and deepen social divisions. He said universities had a special responsibility to cultivate independent thinkers and future leaders, adding that the true measure of education was not merely what an individual knew, but what society became because of that knowledge.

Earlier, the Director of Information, Comr. Philip Iniobong Happiness, who conceived the Intellectual Feast, described the programme as a platform for students to exchange ideas, celebrate knowledge and stretch their thinking beyond the classroom. She urged participants to become “informed citizens, critical thinkers, innovative problem solvers, and responsible leaders,” saying the event was designed to encourage students to question, network and develop practical solutions to challenges confronting the university, their communities and the nation. The event, organised under the auspices of the Faculty of Social Sciences and the SUG, was attended by lecturers, student leaders, panelists, representatives of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, partners, sponsors and members of the press.

Switching on the Digital Backbone: How Akwa Ibom is Re-inventing Victor Attah International Airport for the Future

 

By Charles Bassey

(Aviation Correspondents of Akwa Ibom State - ACAKS)

On June 14, 2026, history landed at Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo. 

It was not just the opening of a new terminal. It was the moment Akwa Ibom “switched on the digital backbone” of its aviation ecosystem — and by extension, switched on a new economic future for the state.

For years, travelers from Akwa Ibom had to connect through Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt to get to the world. Today, the world can now connect directly to Uyo.

FROM RUNWAY TO ECOSYSTEM

The vision is simple but audacious: VAIA should not be just an airport. It should be a city within a city.

Governor Pastor Umo Eno put it plainly during the FG’s designation of the airport as an international gateway: _“What we are building is an ecosystem at the airport. We want everything within the airport environment.”_

That ecosystem is now taking shape. 

The Federal Government, through Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, SAN, gave the final nod, noting that with VAIA’s 3km runway, MRO facility, and modern infrastructure, “there is no reason why Uyo airport should not be designated as an international airport.”

A joint technical team of FAAN, NCAA, Customs, NiMet and others has been “ticking the boxes” to ensure full compliance.

THE DIGITAL HEARTBEAT

Walk into the new International Terminal today and you feel it immediately — this is not 2010 aviation.

The terminal commissioned on June 14, 2026 comes with:

- Automated check-in and digital self-service kiosks to cut queues

- Advanced baggage screening and weighing systems integrated into security

- Video analytics and intelligent transport management for safety and flow

- Immigration automation to fast-track international arrivals and departures  

- Smart internet installations, daylighting with occupancy sensors, and voice evacuation systems — all verified by FAAN and NCAA

In short: a passenger can now check in, clear security, and board with minimal human friction. That is the digital backbone.

THE HARD INFRASTRUCTURE THAT POWERS IT

Technology means little without steel and concrete.

1.  The MRO: One of only a handful in West Africa. Capable of handling 2 Boeing 747-800s and 8 CRJs at once. The goal is to stop Akwa Ibom aircraft from flying to Addis or Johannesburg for maintenance.

2.  Cargo Terminal: Already captured in the 2026 budget. This is the game-changer for farmers, manufacturers and exporters who can now airlift goods directly from Uyo.

3.  Staff Housing: 100 housing units under construction to ensure 24/7 operational readiness.

4.  The Runway: Over 3 kilometers, built to receive wide-body aircraft from anywhere in the world.

 IBOM AIR LEADS THE CHARGE

The state-owned Ibom Air has moved both domestic and regional operations into the new terminal and has already launched Uyo–Accra flights. 

It is the first proof that the ecosystem works. More routes are expected as bilateral agreements are finalized. The target, according to the Governor: _“the first intercontinental flight out of Uyo before the end of Q1 2026.”_

 WHY THIS MATTERS: THE ARISE AGENDA IN THE SKIES

This is not about planes. It is about prosperity.

Aviation experts say direct international connectivity will:

1.  Attract FDI: Investors can land in Uyo for business and be in meetings the same day.

2.  Boost Tourism: Conferences, cultural festivals, and religious events in Akwa Ibom now have a direct gateway.

3.  Empower Trade: Perishable farm produce can go from Akwa Ibom farms to European markets in hours, not days.

4.  Create Jobs: From ground handling to hospitality, logistics to real estate, the ripple effect is already being felt.

_“World-class infrastructure is the bedrock of economic transformation under the ARISE Agenda,”_ Gov. Eno declared.

THE ACAKS PERSPECTIVE

As accredited aviation journalists in Akwa Ibom, we at ACAKS have watched this journey from blueprint to takeoff. 

What we are seeing is deliberate. The state is not waiting for Abuja. It is building, funding, and partnering to make VAIA a regional hub for the Gulf of Guinea.

The digital backbone is on. The lights are green. The next step is to fill the seats.

Elevating Aviation. Lifting Akwa Ibom. 

That is what ACAKS stands for. That is what Akwa Ibom is doing.

ACAKS is the body of NUJ-accredited Aviation Correspondents in Akwa Ibom State, committed to professional reporting and the growth of aviation in the state.

AKIRS Chairman Urges CITN to Take Tax Reform Message to Public

 

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

The Executive Chairman of the Akwa Ibom Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS), Sir Okon Okon, has urged members of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Uyo and District Society, to intensify tax advocacy and use their professional expertise to promote compliance and support ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s tax system.

Okon gave the charge on Wednesday,  August 5, 2026, during a reception organised by the CITN Uyo and District Society to celebrate its outstanding performance at the 2026 Annual Tax Conference in Abuja, where the Society won several awards and trophies. He congratulated the members for making Akwa Ibom proud, describing their achievement as evidence of teamwork, professionalism and commitment to the growth of the tax profession.

The AKIRS Chairman particularly commended the Society’s award-winning drama presentation, noting that while the trophies were important, the message conveyed through the performance was more significant. He said the drama effectively communicated the essence of the tax reforms but urged the Society to take the message beyond the conference venue and reach the wider public.

According to him, the ongoing tax reforms have created a favourable environment for the advancement of taxation and provided opportunities for tax practitioners to contribute more meaningfully to the economy. He called on CITN members to support the reforms by educating the public and helping taxpayers understand their obligations, especially with regard to registration, filing of returns and proper tax calculations.

Okon also challenged tax practitioners to take advantage of the opportunities created by the reforms, stressing that there was considerable work to be done in helping individuals and businesses comply with tax requirements. He noted that assisting taxpayers would not only promote voluntary compliance and strengthen government revenue but also create professional opportunities for practitioners.

The AKIRS boss further called for greater investment in the development of young tax professionals and students. He commended members of the University of Uyo Tax Club for their achievements at the conference and urged stakeholders to work towards establishing a Tax Club at Akwa Ibom State University before the end of the year. He also appealed to CITN members to continue working as a team and sustaining the spirit of excellence that earned the Society recognition at the national conference.

He urged members to support the tax reforms and help change public perceptions that often associate them with politics, saying sustained advocacy was needed to make citizens understand the benefits of the reforms. Okon also commended the Federal Government for reducing the tax bracket, describing the move as a positive development, while reaffirming AKIRS’ readiness to partner with CITN in advancing tax education, compliance and professional development in Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Chairman of the CITN Uyo and District Society, Dcns. Idorenyin Charles Williams, described their win as a product of commitment, strategic planning, teamwork and dedication. 

Williams, who is the sixth and first female chairman of the Society, said the national conference was held in Abuja from May 11 to 16, 2026, adding that the Society had previously participated without winning before adopting a more strategic approach to its preparation.

According to her, the turning point came when the Society constituted a dedicated committee and engaged a professional with expertise in entertainment and stage presentation to prepare its cultural performance. She explained that the approach paid off, as the Society won the national competition for the first time and has maintained the top position for three consecutive years. 

The winning presentation, titled “Ke Kpe Tax Mfo”, meaning “Go and Pay Your Tax,” promoted voluntary tax compliance, while the Society also secured a Gold Medal in the conference table tennis competition.

Williams attributed the sustained success to the collective commitment of members and the support of the Executive Chairman of AKIRS, Sir Okon Okon, particularly in ensuring that the Society could meet the required number of 30 participants for its conference committee. 

She also praised the University of Uyo Tax Club, noting that the students had continued to complement the Society’s efforts in tax education and awareness, with the team securing first and second positions in its competition. encourage students who serve as ambassadors of tax awareness on campus.

Meanwhile, Sir Okon announced financial support to reward outstanding student performers and absorbed them into his scholarship Foundation to encourage academic excellence.

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.