Thursday September 18, 2025
TheNewsDESK |
By Dominic UMOH
The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Umo Eno on Local Media, Comrade Amos Etuk, has commended the achievements of the Comrade Nsibiet John-led administration, describing it as excellent and impactful.
Etuk who is the immediate past Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, made the remarks on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, during a courtesy visit at the NUJ Press Centre, Uyo, where he led a delegation of the Amalgamated Newspaper Publishers Association to meet the State Working Committee (SWC) of the Union.
He appreciated Comrade John for redefining leadership and hitting the ground running, noting that the administration had, in just six weeks, recorded visible reforms and welfare initiatives. “I am very proud of you for what you have done so far, and I am confident that the NUJ will benefit more under this administration,” Etuk said.
The Governor’s aide called on journalists to collaborate with the State government in promoting and interpreting the ARISE AGENDA which he described as a roadmap for growth, progress, and citizen empowerment, while highlighting recent initiatives such as the launch of the Akwa Ibom Security Trust Fund and the forthcoming Electricity Summit as evidences of Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to sustainable development.
He also explained the importance of media collaboration for a unified State, urging journalists to maintain dignity and professionalism in reporting government policies and programmes.
While expressing gratitude to the Governor for entrusting him with the role of Senior Special Assistant, Etuk pledged to remain committed to excellence and effective representation.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, outlined a series of reforms embarked upon by his administration within six weeks in office; reflected on the contributions of past leaders and pledged to consolidate on their legacies.
Comrade John who assured members that the council is committed to continuity, welfare and institutional growth said Akwa Ibom journalists have earned so much respect within the NUJ at the national level because of the courage and consistency of their leaders who made remarkable impressions at the National Secretariat.
The NUJ boss, who described himself as a “third term agenda” of his predecessors, explained that his administration was deliberately continuing projects initiated by past chairmen. “What they promised and could not complete within their tenure, we have taken up and are implementing,” he said, stressing that leadership in the Union is a divine project that requires continuity and humility.
On infrastructure, Comrade John pointed out that the NUJ had restored its vandalized armored cables, commenced renovation of the Press Centre beginning with the Chairman’s office, and introduced free internet services for members. “We have purchased new Geepee tanks for adequate water supply and have partnered with different organisations to train over 50 journalists on capacity building and security measures have been strengthened around the NUJ premises, through the support of the Village Head of Aka Offot community, and Nigerian Police Force.
He further announced plans to revamp the union-owned Fourth Estate School, which he described as a legacy project of past administrations. According to him, a member of the Federated Chapel and consultant to multinational firms had indicated interest in partnering with the council to provide a synthetic playground for pupils, a development he said would add value to the school and create opportunities in sports for children.
The Chairman thanked the Publishers for their unwavering support and contributions toward promoting a safe and peaceful State, while assuring them of his administration’s readiness to sustain partnership and collaboration in future engagements.
Others who spoke at the meeting were: The President, Algamated Newspaper Publishers Association, Pastor Nsuni Alfred; Former Chairman of NUJ, Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Patrick Albert amongst others.
The event was attended by State Vice Chairman, Comrade Margaret Moore, Secretary, Comrade Nsikak Esenowo; Assistant Secretary, Comrade Uduak Akai; Financial Secretary, Comrade Kufre Emmanuel, Treasurer, Comrade Udeme Hosea, Chairman SWAN, Comrade Emmanuel Akpan and others.
