Sunday January 18, 2026
www.thenewsdesk.ng
The Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has called on journalists in the state to remain steadfast in the practice of factual, ethical and responsible journalism, describing the media as a critical partner in the promotion of good governance and societal development.
The Governor made the call on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Qua Iboe Church, Abak Itenghe in Abak local government, during the New Year Thanksgiving Service of the Akwa Ibom State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
Represented at the event by the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, Governor Eno commended the NUJ for its invaluable contributions in promoting good governance, and urged the union to sustain its commitment to professionalism and nation-building.
While emphasizing the importance of press freedom in a democratic society, he cautioned that such freedom should not be misconstrued as a licence for defamation, slander or the spread of unverified information.
He charged the Chairman of the NUJ, Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, to continue guiding members on the dos and don’ts of the journalism profession, particularly in the age of social media. The Governor cautioned those who misuse social media as a tool for defamation to always acquaint themselves with relevant cybercrime laws and strive to uphold the ethics of responsible journalism.
Further highlighting key development projects in Abak, he said the administration has over 20 projects including 43 KM of roads , Model Primary School, Ongoing Model Health Centre, Water Projects. Arise Compassionate Homes among others, noting that such projects underscore his administration’s commitment to initiatives that positively impact the lives and livelihoods of the people.
Earlier in his remarks, the NUJ Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John, explained that the essence of the thanksgiving service was to appreciate God’s benevolence upon the lives of journalists in the state and to seek His presence, protection and direction in the year ahead.
Delivering the homily, the General Superintendent and Chairman of Conference, Rev. Ekpedeme Effanga, described the decision of the NUJ to hold its thanksgiving service in the church as a clear demonstration that the union recognizes God as its anchor. Preaching from Proverbs 3:5 on the theme “Anchored in God, Advancing with Vision,” the cleric urged journalists to trust God completely in the year 2026, assuring them of His faithfulness even in the midst of life’s storms.
Rev. Effanga further charged journalists to align their personal visions and professional conduct with the overall goals and objectives of the NUJ, warning against actions capable of undermining the unity and integrity of the union. He reminded members that the gathering was primarily to celebrate God’s mercies and faithfulness.
In attendance at the thanksgiving service included the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong; Member representing Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency, Hon. Clement Jimbo; former Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Uwem Udoma; former National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem, SAN; Chairman of Abak Local Government Area, Mrs. Ime Charles Effiong, members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Clerk of the State House of Assembly, Mrs. Nsikakabasi Orok, Provost of Samuel Bill Theological Seminary, Rev. Ifiok Otu, Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) past leaders and members of the NUJ.
