The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, has described the State’s 38th anniversary as a moment of pride and reflection, acknowledging its transformation from humble beginnings to a centre of development, tourism, and excellence in various fields.
Comrade John said this during an interactive session with journalists in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
He stressed that God has blessed Akwa Ibom with abundant natural resources, fertile land, and visionary leaders whose efforts have positioned the state as one of the fastest-growing in the country.
“At 38, Akwa Ibom has every reason to celebrate, that is because there is a clear difference between the Akwa Ibom of yesterday and the Akwa Ibom of today. From our modern road networks, airport, flyovers, international stadium, worship centre, and hotels to our thriving industrial reforms, the growth is undeniable,” he said.
The NUJ Chairman noted that the State, once dismissed as a place of housemaids and houseboys, has today metamorphosed into a hub for tourism, oil servicing companies, international engagements, and a host State to the Super Eagles.
He added that the State is now rated among one of the safest in Nigeria, with its indigenes excelling in education, engineering, sports, and journalism among other disciplines.
“Our cuisine, culture, and industrious people continue to attract admiration across the country. If you are to select five of Nigeria’s best journalists today, at least two will be from Akwa Ibom. We are proud of this progress and even prouder that our people have the courage to speak truth to power, Comrade John stressed.
On his leadership of the NUJ in the State, the Chairman reaffirmed his commitment to his campaign agenda of SERVICE, describing it as a call to duty rather than a position of pressure.
He pledged to promote the welfare of journalists in the State, prioritizing not just financial support but also mental, intellectual, and physical wellbeing of his members.
“You cannot underrate the importance of staying fit and healthy. Too often, people overwork and forget about their health, that is why we plan to engage members in fitness outings and more sports activities as part of our health improvement agenda,” he explained.
Comrade John said his administration would focus on infrastructure development, human capacity building, and intellectual growth for members of the Union. He assured that while the NUJ would collaborate with relevant institutions and the State Government, it would not compromise on the principles and ethics of journalism.
“We are determined to raise the bar of professionalism by holding leaders accountable and ensuring effective representation, and I understand that leadership comes with a lot of challenges and responsibilities which I am not about listing challenges but about solving them,” he declared.
He called on Akwa Ibom people to support the government by making the best use of the opportunities provided, stressing that collective responsibility is key to sustaining the state’s growth.
“I am proud not only to be a citizen of Akwa Ibom but also to lead the Union of journalists who tell the story of our State to the world, therefore, as we celebrate 38 years, the best is yet to come,” he added.
