…Back Reforms Against Splinter Groups
RismadarVoice Reporters, April 27, 2026
Newspaper publishers in Akwa Ibom State have passed a vote of confidence on the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), applauding the Chairman, Comr Nsibiet John and other officers for what they described as purposeful leadership and reform-driven initiatives.
The endorsement came during a meeting between the NUJ leadership and newspaper publishers, where stakeholders commended the union’s commitment to professionalism, unity and reforms aimed at strengthening journalism practice in the state.
Moving the motion for the vote of confidence, Wilson David of Voice Newspaper praised the leadership for fostering inclusiveness, restoring confidence in the union and pursuing reforms that promote members’ welfare and growth in the profession.
“The present leadership has shown commitment to inclusiveness, professionalism and reforms that are repositioning the union for greater relevance. We are satisfied with the direction the union is taking and hereby pass a vote of confidence on the Chairman and his team,” he said.
Seconding the motion, Harrison Ndifreke of Orange Newspaper reaffirmed publishers’ support for the reform agenda, describing the leadership as committed to progress, partnership and the protection of professional standards.
“We support the ongoing reforms and stand with the leadership in efforts to strengthen the union and preserve professional standards. The moves against splinter groups and quackery are necessary for the integrity of journalism,” he stated.
The publishers also aligned with the Chairman on efforts to sanitise the profession through reforms aimed at eliminating quackery and strengthening ethical journalism practice.
Speaking on behalf of the publishers, they declared, “We fully align with the Chairman on the ongoing reforms aimed at weeding out quacks in the profession. These reforms are necessary to protect the integrity of journalism and strengthen professional standards within the union.”
They pledged continued collaboration with the union and expressed confidence that the reforms would further reposition the NUJ for greater efficiency and relevance.
Responding, the NUJ Chairman appreciated the publishers for the confidence reposed in the leadership, describing the endorsement as both encouraging and a call to remain steadfast in advancing professionalism, unity and collective progress within the union.
“This vote of confidence is not just an endorsement but a challenge for us to remain committed to professionalism, unity and reforms that will continue to strengthen the union and protect the integrity of our profession,” the Chairman said.
He reaffirmed the union’s resolve to sustain reforms, strengthen institutional standards and rid the profession of unqualified practitioners.
Those in attendance included Senior Special Assistant on Research and Documentation, Dr Essien Ndueso; SSA Amos Etuk; Ernest Akpan; and Inimfon Silas.
