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The Holy Father, His Holiness Olumba Olumba Obu, on Sunday, March 8, 2026, formally inaugurated the International Organizing Committee (IOC) and Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the 2026 CUGF Evangelical Outreach and International Retreat, alongside the newly constituted executives of the Christ Universal General Fellowship – CUGF Akwa Ibom State Chapter. The event which was held at the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star (BCS), AKS headquarters, Uyai Abasi Bethel, Uyo, had the Holy Father represented by PCS Bassey Imowo, who described the CUGF Evangelical Outreach and International Retreat as a reflection of the true spirit of Brotherhood and the universal mission of the Kingdom. He emphasized that the initiative was aimed to strengthen inter-religious harmony among diverse faith communities and foster unity among humanity. In his message, the Holy Father blessed and charged members of the committees and executives to ensure adequate preparation and diligence for the forthcoming programme, assuring them that the event is divinely ordained and destined for success. The Event which has the theme: “In Unity We Rise” is the third in the series as the Holy Father had held similar evangelical outreach in Abuja, Delta and now Akwa Ibom State. The inauguration ceremony attracted several prominent members, including the CUGF International Chairman, Archbishop (Hon. Justice) Archibong Archibong; Archbishop Martins Ansa, Akwa Ibom State Administrator; Archbishop Nnanna Mong, IOC Chairman; Archbishop Andrew Uwanta, LOC Chairman; PCS (Dr) Amah Williams, BCS Spokesman; Her Eminence Christiana Umana, Chairman CUGF Akwa Ibom State; Bishop Prince Opurum, Chairman CUGF Rivers State; Bishop Obong, Chairman CUGF Delta State; HE Mercy Asanya, Vice Chairman CUGF Cross River State; MCS Ronke Aluko, CUMF International Chairman; MCS Emem Essien, CUGF International Mother; Bishop Patrick Ikpi, CUGF International Secretary; Bishop Mfoniso Udom, IOC Assistant Secretary; Archbishop Ibifubra Nengia, Chairman of the Sub-Committee on Inter-Religious Conference; CA Emem Julius, IOC Secretary; Bro. Godwin Akpan, CUGF Public Relations Officer Also in attendance were; PCS Chika Nwaka, IOC member; Archbishop (Dr) Sunday Aigboke, IOC member, alongside numerous members of the LOC and executives of CUGF Akwa Ibom State. The main highlight of the occasion was the formal unveiling of the official logo for the Evangelical Outreach. The event also featured the presentation of the Terms of Reference to members of the IOC and LOC, as well as the unveiling of the strategic blueprint for the forthcoming programme which will feature, Inter-religious World Conference, Inter-Religious Singing Competition, Extensive Evangelical Outreach, TV / Radio Programs, CUGF International Retreat, Unity Procession, Council of Elders Interview Sessions, CUGF International Awards, Healing and Open Air Service, Day of Divine Emancipation and lots more. The ceremony marked a significant step toward the successful planning and execution of the 2026 CUGF Evangelical Outreach and International Retreat scheduled to hold from the 8th – 13th of June 2026 in Akwa Ibom State. Thank You Father Bro. Godwin Akpan PRO, CUGF International

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has called out the Commissioner for Women Affairs, urging her to “wake up from slumber and get to work” over the disturbing rise of abandoned and vulnerable children roaming the streets during school hours and at night. The union made this call during its monthly congress after members raised serious concerns about the growing number of children seen loitering along Atiku Abubakar Way, Ewet Housing Estate, Itam under Bridge and other locations and also particularly around the main gate of the Idongesit Nkanga Secretariat, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. According to the journalists, the sight of underage children wandering the area during official school hours and at night is not only shameful but a clear sign of neglect. They questioned the role and visibility of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare in addressing child protection and welfare issues in the state. Congress members described the situation as unacceptable, stressing that vulnerable children should not be left to roam the streets while a government ministry specifically mandated to protect them and act in that regards remains silent and seemingly inactive. The Union maintained that child welfare is not a ceremonial responsibility but a core duty of the ministry. It warned that continued inaction would only embolden social decay and expose minors to exploitation, abuse, and criminal influence. As part of its resolutions, the NUJ formally called on the Commissioner to immediately step up, confront the situation head-on, and demonstrate leadership by clearing the streets of abandoned children and ensuring they are returned to school or placed under proper care.

…As Atlantic 104.5 FM Marks 15th Anniversary The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, has called on the Federal Government to significantly increase funding and upgrade infrastructure for government-owned radio and television stations across the country. He made the appeal during his goodwill message at the 15th anniversary celebration of Atlantic 104.5 FM, held on Tuesday 3rd March, 2026 at Radio Nigeria Atlantic FM Broadcasting House, Nwaniba, Uyo. Comrade John lamented that sustained neglect of public broadcasting institutions is undermining quality journalism and limiting their capacity to deliver on their mandate. He called for improved funding, modern equipment and better welfare packages to strengthen service delivery and promote human capital development. According to him, radio stations that operate for extended hours daily deserve adequate financial support and modern amenities to remain competitive in an increasingly global and technology-driven media landscape. “Without deliberate investment in infrastructure and personnel, government-owned stations will continue to struggle to meet contemporary broadcasting standards,” he said. Congratulating the management and staff of Atlantic 104.5 FM on the milestone, the NUJ chairman described the anniversary as more than a celebration of longevity, but a testament to consistency, professionalism and adherence to ethical broadcasting standards. He further encouraged journalists to remain focused and steadfast in the discharge of their duties, uphold the highest standards of professionalism, and ensure that leaders at all levels are held accountable.

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.