The Akwa Ibom State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on Monday, hosted journalists serving as aides to Governor Umo Eno at the NUJ Press Centre, Uyo, as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration and promote the growth of the Union.
Welcoming the delegation on behalf of the State Working Committee (SWC), the Council Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John, expressed appreciation to the governor’s aides for their encouragement and support during and after the Union’s election.
He said the meeting was convened to reinforce professional unity and fellowship among journalists, especially those serving in government.
He explained that the meeting was convened to strengthen the bond of unity and professional fellowship within the journalism community, particularly among members serving in government.
Highlighting the Union’s achievements within its first 100 days in office, the Chairman said the leadership has built bridges of trust, fostered collaboration with relevant agencies, and initiated structural reforms at the NUJ Secretariat.
Comrade John added that the Union had partnered with For the Love of Nigeria (FLON) to construct an international standard football pitch within the NUJ complex, a facility he said will serve as a training ground for young talents and is set to be inaugurated soon.
According to him, the Union has also prioritized capacity building for journalists, improved members’ welfare through entrepreneurship grants, and introduced innovative programs aimed at empowering practitioners.
Comrade John solicited continued support from the Governor’s aides, especially ahead of the 2025 Press Week slated for November 30, 2025, which he said will also mark the Union’s 37th anniversary.
In his remarks, the Dean of the Governor’s aides, Dr. Essien Ndueso, commended the NUJ leadership for its dynamic and people-oriented approach, describing the invitation as a rare gesture that underscores unity within the profession.
Dr. Ndueso applauded Comrade John’s performance within 100 days in office, noting that his leadership has brought renewed credibility to the Union and lauded the immediate past Chairman, Comrade Amos Etuk, for his accountability and performance, which earned him his current appointment as Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Local Media.
He assured the Union of the Aides’ unwavering support, particularly towards the forthcoming Press Week, and commended the transformation of the NUJ Secretariat, describing it as “a new pride of the journalism community.”
High point of the event was an on-the-spot inspection of the newly constructed football court at the NUJ premises, conducted by the Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John.
In attendance during the visit include; State Vice Chairman, Comrade Margaret Moore, Secretary, Comrade Nsikak Esenowo, Assistant Secretary, Comrade Uduak Akai, Treasurer, Comrade Udeme Hosea, Auditor, Comrade Diamine Uko, NAWOJ Chairperson, Comrade Nsikak Okon and Chairman SWAN, Comrade Emmanuel Akpan.
