Esther Etim
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, has charged Mass Communication students to uphold ethics, credibility and public trust in the practice of journalism in the digital age.
Comrade John gave the charge in a keynote address at the 2026 AMASCOS Day Celebration held on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, with the theme, “Responsible Journalism in the Digital Age: Upholding Ethics, Credibility and Public Trust.”
Represented by Managing Editor of The Ink Newspaper, Comrade Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot, John noted that although digital technology had made it possible for virtually everyone with a smartphone and internet connection to publish information instantly, the ability to publish did not automatically confer credibility.
According to him, the digital revolution had not changed the fundamental principles of journalism but had only increased the speed at which information was disseminated. He therefore urged the student journalists to prioritise truth, accuracy and fairness, stressing that “being first is not as important as being right.”
John also warned journalists against sacrificing human dignity and professional independence for online engagement and financial gains. He urged media practitioners to protect the privacy of vulnerable persons, including children, victims of violence and grieving families, while avoiding the exploitation of human suffering for clicks.
Speaking on credibility and public trust, the NUJ chairman urged journalists to embrace original, evidence-based and data-driven reporting. He advised practitioners to identify sources where appropriate, reference credible documents and provide adequate context to enable audiences understand issues. John further encouraged journalists to go beyond reporting what happened to explaining why events happened and how they affected ordinary citizens. He cautioned against becoming instruments for spreading misinformation, warning that journalists who amplify unverified claims ultimately become part of the misinformation problem.
In her remarks, the Acting Head of Department, Ms. Ekereobong Idang to be studious and serious-minded.
Represented by Dr. Nnamso Ekanem, she acknowledged the need for them to unwind but urged them to remember the primary reason they were in school. She therefore urged them to shun distraction and violence, and to remain focused.
She further advised the students to always put their attitude and character in check in order to become good ambassadors of the Department of Mass Communication, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic.
In his speech, President of AMASCOS, Comrade Solomon Alfred said the day was organized to celebrate the department’s achievements, appreciate those who have contributed to its growth, while strengthening the bond among students.
According to him, the theme was a reminder to students and stakeholders in the journalism practice of the responsibilities that come with being communicators in a fast-changing environment.
He added that as information spreads rapidly, communicators must strive to be professionals who value growth, credibility, and responsibility.
The highpoint of the event was the presentation of awards to deserving awardees, including the Chairman, NUJ Akwa Ibom State, Comrade Nsibiet John.
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