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Nigeria Union of Journalists - Akwa Ibom State, Information Drive of IBB Way, Uyo (2026)

27/05/2026

*COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED AT THE END OF THE CONGRESS OF THE NIGERIA UNION OF JOURNALISTS (NUJ), AKWA IBOM STATE COUNCIL, HELD ON TUESDAY, MAY 26, 2026, AT THE NUJ PRESS CENTRE, INFORMATION DRIVE, UYO*

After careful and exhaustive deliberations the following resolutions were reached:

1. Congress passed a vote of confidence on the State Chairman of the Union, Comrade Nsibiet John, and members of the State Working Committee (SWC) under his leadership for the remarkable strides recorded within less than a year since the inception of the administration.

2. Congress resolved to embark on a “Wall of Fame” project aimed at preserving the history and legacies of past leaders of the Union and immortalising their contributions to the growth and development of the NUJ in Akwa Ibom State.

3 Congress expressed concerns about the Treasury Single Account (TSA), as it concerns some agencies and parastatals and called on the State Government to exempt State-owned media organisations, including Pioneer Newspapers and the Akwa Ibom State Broadcasting Corporation (AKBC), from the policy to minimize bottlenecks that are alien to media house operation, thus enable them function more efficiently and effectively.

4. Congress appreciated the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Health Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John and the Ministry of Health for the successes recorded under the Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Scheme, and commended the State Vice Chairman of the Union, Comrade Margaret Moore, for her Frontline role in the success of the scheme in terms of public relations, enlightenment and liaison. Congress equally commended the planned distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets to households across the State.

5. Congress commended the Akwa Ibom State Government for its partnership with the World Bank in initiating the construction of the Nung Ukod Itam–Ekid Itam II Road project.

6. Congress expressed appreciation to the Government for heeding the outcry of the Union to construct the road from Itam Market to the Itu Local Government Council Secretariat, which had hitherto become a death trap for motorists and other road users.

7. As political activities gather momentum across the State, Congress called on political stakeholders and players to adhere strictly to the rules of engagement and avoid actions capable of disrupting the peace and stability of Akwa Ibom State. Congress also urged members to remain professional, objective, and ethical in their reportage.

8. Congress received the interim report of the Adhoc Committee set up to checkmate the proliferation of splinter groups and their activities, and urged organisations, institutions, and members of the public to be cautious in interfacing with such groups, as the NUJ remains the authentic body for regulation of media-related engagements.

9. Congress lauded Comrade Charles Bassey for establishing the first-ever Internet radio service in Akwa Ibom State, known as CBS Internet Radio, with full transmission scheduled to commence on May 29, 2026.

Signed:

Comrade Grace Anderson
Chairman, Communiqué Drafting Committee

Comrade Anyiaña Umanah
Secretary, Communiqué Drafting Committee

Comrade Imaobong Uko
Member, Communiqué Drafting Committee

Comrade Nsikak Esenowo
State Secretary

Comrade Nsibiet John
State Chairman

11/05/2026

NUJ AKWA IBOM COUNCIL CONDOLES FORMER UNION VP, CHIEF OKON OSUNG, OVER DAUGHTER'S DEATH

Akwa Ibom State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists has paid a condolence visit to former NUJ Vice President, Chief Okon Osung, over the death of his daughter, Affiong Okon Osung.

The delegation, led by the State Chairman of the NUJ, Comrade Nsibiet John , visited the bereaved former union leader to sympathize with him and his family during the difficult moment.

Speaking during the visit, Comrade Nsibiet John described the death of Affiong as painful and unfortunate, noting that the entire journalism family in Akwa Ibom shares in the grief of Chief Okon Osung and his loved ones.

He therefore extended the heartfelt condolences of the National, Zonal, State leaderships and members of the Union, offering prayers, encouragement and support to the family, while urging them to remain strong and take solace in God.

The NUJ chairman also acknowledged the immense contributions of Chief Okon Osung to the growth of journalism practice and the union in the country, stressing that the council will continue to stand with him in moments of joy and sorrow.

Responding, Chief Okon Osung thanked the NUJ delegation for the show of love, describing the gesture as comforting to the family, and announced his intention to resume Union activities as a result of the visit.

According to the family, late Affiong Okon Osung will be buried on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, after a memorial service to be conducted by Eckankar at the Dr. Val Attah field, Osongama Estate, Uyo.

On the NUJ entourage were, the State Secretary, Nsikak Esenowo, State Auditor Dianime Uko, Chairman of SWAN Emmanuel Akpan, Chairman of State Information Chapel, Edifon Esenowo, Members of Federated and Apex Chapels, Itoro Etti and Lynda Ukonne respectively.

07/05/2026

NUJ Chairman Calls for Cultural Re-awakening in A’Ibom, Endorses “Usoro Akwa Ibom”

By Unyime Bassey

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, has called for a cultural re-awakening in the state, stressing the need for Akwa Ibom people to reconnect with their roots and preserve the rich heritage handed down by their forebears.

The NUJ Chairman made the call when the organisers of “Usoro Akwa Ibom” paid a courtesy visit to the NUJ Secretariat in Uyo to seek partnership and media support for the forthcoming cultural event.

Speaking during the meeting, Comrade Nsibiet John lamented that civilisation and modern trends have gradually eroded some cherished aspects of the state’s culture, traditions, and values, noting that deliberate efforts must be made to revive and sustain them for future generations.

According to him, culture remains the identity of a people and should not be allowed to fade away in the face of westernisation and social changes.

He commended the organisers of the “Usoro Akwa Ibom” initiative for coming up with a platform aimed at celebrating the cultural heritage of Akwa Ibom State, describing the project as timely and necessary.

The NUJ Chairman also called for the recognition and celebration of outstanding Akwa Ibom sons and daughters who have distinguished themselves in different professions and brought honour to the state through their achievements.

He assured the organisers of the union’s support in promoting the event and creating awareness among the people.

Earlier, the Project Lead of “Usoro Akwa Ibom,” Mr. Felix Uyah, said the event is designed to showcase and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Akwa Ibom State through exhibitions, cultural displays, music, arts, food, and other traditional activities.

He disclosed that the programme, organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, is scheduled to hold from September 17 to 19, 2026.

Mr. Uyah explained that the visit to the NUJ Secretariat was to seek partnership with journalists in publicising the event and mobilising support towards making it a success.

He expressed confidence that the event would further promote unity, tourism, and cultural pride among Akwa Ibom people.

Amongst those who attended the visit were, the Treasurer of the Union Udeme Hosea , State Auditor, Dianime Uko , SA to Governor on Media, Ekomobong Peter, Chairman of Correspondents Chapel, Bassey Akra, Assistant Secretary of Federated Chapel Ubong Inyang

04/05/2026

2026 PRESS FREEDOM DAY: MEDIA MUST LEAD PEACE EFFORTS IN SOCIETY — NUJ CHAIRMAN

By Unyime Bassey

The Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, has called on media practitioners to take the lead in promoting peace in society, warning that poorly trained journalists pose a significant threat to social stability.

Speaking during activities marking the World Press Freedom Day 2026 in Akwa Ibom State, John described journalists as critical stakeholders in shaping public perception and fostering unity across communities.

He stressed that only well-trained and qualified professionals can contribute meaningfully to peacebuilding, noting that the increasing presence of untrained individuals in the profession continues to undermine credibility and erode public trust.

“A poorly trained journalist will do more harm than good to society,” he said, urging individuals, organizations, and government institutions to engage only certified media professionals for assignments.

The NUJ chairman further emphasized the need for ethical and conflict-sensitive reporting, noting that responsible journalism plays a key role in de-escalating tensions and promoting peaceful coexistence.

He also decried the growing trend of engaging unqualified persons for media-related jobs, explaining that such practices often result in substandard output and unfairly tarnish the image of trained journalists.

“When you engage professionals, you get value. But when you pick just anybody, the outcome is poor, and the blame is wrongly placed on journalists,” he added.

Also speaking, Professor Iniobong Umotong of Akwa Ibom State University, who delivered a lecture on the theme “Shaping a Future at Peace: The Critical Role of Journalism in Promoting Peace and Resolving Conflicts in Akwa Ibom State,” underscored the importance of responsible journalism in conflict resolution.

He noted that the media remains a powerful tool for fostering dialogue, reducing tensions, and sustaining development, urging journalists to uphold the principles of accuracy, fairness, and responsibility in their reportage.

The event brought together journalists, academics, and key stakeholders, all of whom reaffirmed the importance of a free, responsible, and professional press as a cornerstone for peace and development.

02/05/2026

All is set

01/05/2026

Akwa Ibom NUJ Chairman Inaugurated as Secretary, National Strategic Plan Committee

By Dominic Umoh

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, has been inaugurated as Secretary of the union’s National Strategic Plan Committee.

The inauguration was performed by the National President of the NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdul, on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, in Abuja.

Other members of the committee include the Vice President, Zone A, Zara Baba, Adamawa State, who will serve as Chairman, alongside other Chairmen from Borno, Ekiti, Kwara, Edo, Bauchi, Cross River, Nasarawa states, the National Treasurer and the National Secretary of NAWOJ amongst others.

Speaking at the inauguration, Abdul said the committee is tasked with the responsibilities of developing a 10-year strategic plan to drive the growth and sustainability of the union nationwide. He noted that the plan would strengthen internal structures, enhance external relations, and improve engagement with both members and the public.

According to him, the committee will also document and coordinate activities from various NUJ chapels across the states and report to the National Secretariat for further action.

He added that the committee is expected to undertake stakeholder mapping at both state and national levels to identify key partners and opportunities that will support the union’s development. The outcome, he said, would be a practical and implementable long-term plan to promote professionalism, efficiency, and effective information dissemination.

In his remarks, Comrade John expressed appreciation for the appointment and pledged to work collaboratively with the committee chairman and other members to achieve its mandate with professionalism, accuracy, and diligence.

He added that a strategic, long-term plan is essential to position the union for future growth, keep members informed of emerging developments, and enhance engagement, as well as create opportunities for individual capacity building and advancement.

28/04/2026

COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED AT THE END OF CONGRESS OF THE NIGERIA UNION OF JOURNALISTS (NUJ), AKWA IBOM STATE COUNCIL HELD ON MONDAY, APRIL 27, 2026, AT THE NUJ PRESS CENTRE, INFORMATION DRIVE, UYO

Following careful and exhaustive deliberations, Congress resolved as follows:

1. Congress registered the felicitations and good wishes of the Akwa Ibom State Council of the NUJ to the National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, whose birthday coincided with Congress of the State Council, on 27th April, 2026. Congress also celebrated all April Born in the State Council.

2. Congress affirmed its readiness to join other workers in the State in all the activities marking the 2026 Workers' Day celebration, scheduled to hold on Friday, May 1st, at Uyo Township Stadium.

3. Congress called on all Journalists in the State to turn out en masse in the celebration of the 2026 World Press Freedom Day on Sunday, May 3, 2026. Accordingly, Congress announced series of events to commemorate the celebration at the Press Centre from 2:00 pm with the theme "Shaping a Future at Peace: the Critical Role of Journalism in Promoting Peace and Resolving Conflicts in Akwa Ibom State".

4. Congress commended the State Council leadership for reaffirming the stance of the Union against quackery and proliferation of splinter groups as a calculated attempt to water down the integrity of the Journalism profession and tarnish the image of the Union. Congress therefore frowns at the involvement of some Journalists under the umbrella of the NUJ, Akwa Ibom State Council in such groups. Consequently, Congress re-affirmed its commitment to implement the resolution of September, 29th 2020, which provided for absolute suspension of any member involved in the activity of splinter groups and therefore inaugurated a 5-man monitoring team on the subject matter while also initiating a selection process for the constitution of an Ethics and Disciplinary Committee.

5. While commending the leadership and members of Sensor Chapel, Congress scored their 2026 Chapel Week as a phenomenal success.

6. Again, Congress commended the magnanimity of Obong Jeremiah Akpan of the Real Help Initiative in fulfilling his the promise of extending welfare packages to six families of journalists of the Akwa Ibom State Council of NUJ who lost their lives in active service.

7. Being aware of the resurgent of COVID-19 in some neighbouring states in Nigeria, Congress lauded the Akwa Ibom State Government for issuing an early warning to citizens in the State and also called for more proactive measure to be put in place to avert the reoccurrence of the pandemic in Akwa Ibom State.

8. Congress frowned at the seeming quietness from the Principal of Federal Government College, Ikot Ekpene, Jude Ezeogu, and the lackadaisical pace in the process of administration of justice in the school where a son of a Journalist of the Akwa Ibom State Council, Master UfokObong Edwin Godwin was allegedly bullied to death by senior students in the school, over his refusal to part with personal belongings(provisions). Congress therefore called on the Federal Government to ensure thorough investigation and justice in the case.

9. Congress drew the attention of the Akwa Ibom State Government to the sales of alcohol to minors and the proximity of some of the sales points to secondary schools, causing a disturbing level of exposure of the children to the substance.

10. Congress drew the attention of the State Government to the deplorable state of Ukana Offot Street and urged the Government to fix the road.

11. Congress called on the Akwa Ibom State Government to urgently intervene and address the life-threatening gully erosion at Nsukara Offot, which has already resulted in loss of lives in the area.

Comrade Edifon Solomon
Chairman, Communiqué Drafting Committee

Comrade Imo Etim
Secretary, Communiqué Drafting Committee

Comrade Lynda Ukonne
Member, Communiqué Drafting Committee

Comrade Nsikak Esenowo
State Secretary

Comrade Nsibiet John
State Chairman

28/04/2026

NUJ Chairman Describes Advocacy Journalism as Tool for Societal Advancement

By Unyime Bassey

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John , has described advocacy journalism as a powerful instrument for societal advancement, urging journalists to deploy it as a strategic tool for participatory development and good governance.

He made the call during a workshop organised by the Consolidated Chapel of the NUJ as part of activities marking its 2026 Press Week, themed “Utilising Advocacy Journalism for Participatory Development in Akwa Ibom State.”

The workshop focused on repositioning journalists as active contributors to social transformation through development-oriented reporting that amplifies citizens’ voices, promotes accountability and supports sustainable growth.

Declaring the workshop open, Comrade Nsibiet John urged media practitioners to take the lead in initiating ideas and actions capable of positively impacting their communities.

He said journalists should see themselves not merely as observers, but as catalysts for development, stressing that advocacy reporting must be pursued with professionalism, objectivity and discipline.

The NUJ Chairman also commended the leadership of the Consolidated Chapel for organising the workshop and charged participants to apply the knowledge gained in advancing development-focused journalism.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Consolidated Chapel, Comrade John Okon, said the workshop was conceived to deepen understanding of journalism’s role in fostering public engagement and influencing development outcomes.

According to him, the evolving media environment requires journalists to go beyond routine reporting by championing truth, accountability and the concerns of underserved populations.

Presenting a paper at the workshop, communication scholar, Dr. Abasifreke Idiong, identified advocacy journalism as an approach that connects reporting with action, particularly in addressing social and economic challenges.

He noted that participatory development thrives when communities are involved in decisions affecting them and maintained that the media has a crucial responsibility in mobilising citizens, tracking policies and sustaining conversations that lead to inclusive development.

Dr. Idiong further advocated research-based reporting, stakeholder engagement and accountability monitoring as practical tools journalists can use to support development processes.

Former NUJ Chairman and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Local Media, Comrade Amos Etuk, in a goodwill message, lauded the initiative and commended the quality of discussions at the workshop.

Other contributors, including Comrade Uwem Ekoh and the Chapel Secretary, Comrade Augustine Akpan, also stressed the importance of applying advocacy principles in daily journalism practice.

Participants drawn from the media, academia and the public described the workshop as a timely intervention aimed at strengthening journalism’s contribution to development in Akwa Ibom State.

27/04/2026

SEC Passes Vote of Confidence on NUJ Chairman, Other Leaders

…Praises Chairman’s Efforts to Sanitize the Union

By Unyime Bassey

The State Executive Council (SEC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has passed a vote of confidence on the Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John, and other leaders of the union, commending their commitment to reforms and efforts aimed at sanitizing the union.

The vote of confidence was moved by Comrade Bassey Ibiatisuho and seconded by Comrade Udemeabasi Udofa during a meeting of the SEC, where members lauded the Chairman for providing purposeful leadership and initiating measures geared towards strengthening professionalism, discipline and unity within the union.

SEC members praised the leadership for taking bold steps to reposition the union, promote transparency and uphold the integrity of the NUJ in the state, describing the current administration as focused and reform-driven.

They particularly applauded the Chairman’s efforts in sanitizing the union through reforms aimed at fostering order, accountability and inclusiveness, noting that the initiatives have continued to restore confidence among members and deepen internal cohesion.

The Council reaffirmed its support for the Chairman and other leaders, urging them to sustain the reform agenda and continue working for the progress and collective interest of journalists in the state.

Members said the vote of confidence reflects the trust and satisfaction of the SEC with the current leadership and its commitment to advancing the ideals of the union.

26/04/2026

Newspaper Publishers Pass Vote of Confidence on NUJ Leadership
..Back Reforms Against Splinter Groups

By Unyime Bassey

Newspaper publishers in Akwa Ibom State have passed a vote of confidence on the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), applauding the Chairman, Comr Nsibiet John and other officers for what they described as purposeful leadership and reform-driven initiatives.

The endorsement came during a meeting between the NUJ leadership and newspaper publishers, where stakeholders commended the union’s commitment to professionalism, unity and reforms aimed at strengthening journalism practice in the state.

Moving the motion for the vote of confidence, Wilson David of Voice Newspaper praised the leadership for fostering inclusiveness, restoring confidence in the union and pursuing reforms that promote members’ welfare and growth in the profession.

“The present leadership has shown commitment to inclusiveness, professionalism and reforms that are repositioning the union for greater relevance. We are satisfied with the direction the union is taking and hereby pass a vote of confidence on the Chairman and his team,” he said.

Seconding the motion, Harrison Ndifreke of Orange Newspaper reaffirmed publishers’ support for the reform agenda, describing the leadership as committed to progress, partnership and the protection of professional standards.

“We support the ongoing reforms and stand with the leadership in efforts to strengthen the union and preserve professional standards. The moves against splinter groups and quackery are necessary for the integrity of journalism,” he stated.

The publishers also aligned with the Chairman on efforts to sanitize the profession through reforms aimed at eliminating quackery and strengthening ethical journalism practice.

Speaking on behalf of the publishers, they declared, “We fully align with the Chairman on the ongoing reforms aimed at weeding out quacks in the profession. These reforms are necessary to protect the integrity of journalism and strengthen professional standards within the union.”

They pledged continued collaboration with the union and expressed confidence that the reforms would further reposition the NUJ for greater efficiency and relevance.

Responding, the NUJ Chairman appreciated the publishers for the confidence reposed in the leadership, describing the endorsement as both encouraging and a call to remain steadfast in advancing professionalism, unity and collective progress within the union.

“This vote of confidence is not just an endorsement but a challenge for us to remain committed to professionalism, unity and reforms that will continue to strengthen the union and protect the integrity of our profession,” the Chairman said.

He reaffirmed the union’s resolve to sustain reforms, strengthen institutional standards and rid the profession of unqualified practitioners.

Those in attendance included Senior Special Assistant on Local Media, Cdr. Amos Etuk, SA Local Media, Ernest Akpan; Chairman BoT, Independent Newspaper Publishers Association, (INPA) and Publisher of The Guide Newspaper, Akparawa Prince Emmanuel Sam , SA Media, Inimfon Silas .among other notable publishers.

Nigeria Union of Journalists - Akwa Ibom State

27/05/2026

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