Monday August 3, 2026
www.thenewsdesk.ng
By Itoro ETTI
The Chief Executive Officer of Hensek Integrated Services, Engr. Uwem Stephen Okoko, on Friday, July 31, paid a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council Press Centre, where he lauded the leadership of the State Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John, as the council marks one year in office.
Engr. Okoko, whose company has executed several landmark construction projects within and outside Akwa Ibom State, expressed satisfaction with the performance of the current NUJ leadership, describing it as purposeful, transparent and inclusive.
“I want to commend you for your purpose-driven leadership. You have done exceptionally well and have run an open and transparent administration. Congratulations. We will continue to support you,” he said.
He charged journalists to remain committed to promoting Akwa Ibom State positively while supporting the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno’s developmental vision through balanced and responsible reportage.
According to him, Governor Eno has consistently demonstrated goodwill towards the media community through various interventions and support initiatives, urging journalists to reciprocate the gesture by contributing meaningfully to the state’s growth and development.
Earlier on, the Chairman of the NUJ, Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, appreciated Engr. Okoko for the visit and for his unwavering support to the union.
“I sincerely thank you for this visit. You are not one of those who support people during elections and disappear afterwards. You have remained committed, monitoring our progress and offering valuable advice whenever necessary,” he said.
He recalled one of the key pieces of advice he received from Engr. Okoko before assuming office, to carry everyone along irrespective of their positions during the election, and affirmed that his administration has remained faithful and has been guided by that principle.
Comrade John also disclosed that during the union’s recent meeting with Governor Umo Eno, the Governor approved two major requests presented by the council, including the payment of weigh-in allowance for journalists in government employment and the provision of a bus for the NUJ.
“We are optimistic that the bus will soon be delivered. Once it arrives, we intend to use it to visit government project sites across the state to enable journalists undertake first-hand assessments and provide factual reports,” he stated.
He further noted that available records indicate that the state government has constructed about 40 bridges and over 1,300 kilometres of roads, stressing that the union plans to tour some of the completed and ongoing projects.
The NUJ Chairman also commended the state government for approving the construction of a 2-kilometre road in Esit Urua, one of the largest communities in Eket Local Government Area.
Present at the meeting were the immediate past NUJ State Chairman, Comrade Amos Etuk; the Special Assistant to the Governor on media, Comrade Imo Udoima; the NUJ State Secretary, Comrade Nsikak Eseneowo ; the State Treasurer, Udeme Hosea ; the Chairman of Information Chapel, Comrade Edifon Solomon; Comrade Itoro Etti; and other journalists.
