RismadarVoice Reporters
January 7, 2026
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, has charged journalists in the state to prioritize knowledge acquisition, integrity and civic responsibility in the discharge of their professional duties, describing the empowerment of journalists as a catalyst for community development.
Comrade John gave the charge while speaking at a media and youth capacity-building programme organized by Senator Ekong Sampson, representing Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, held on January 6, 2026, at Mandela Hall, Watbridge Hotel, Uyo.
In his keynote address, the NUJ Chairman commended Senator Sampson for investing in the intellectual development of media practitioners, noting that continuous learning remains central to modern journalism, democratic growth.
“Acquiring knowledge is what we all seek in media practice and beyond. Whoever empowers a journalist, empowers a community. The theme of this engagement is apt and timely,” he said.
He urged beneficiaries of the programme to maximize the opportunity and ensure that the impact of the training reflects in their professional output, encouraging participants to serve as proud ambassadors of the Akwa Ibom South media empowerment initiative.
Comrade John reminded journalists that beyond reporting events, the citizens of the Eket Senatorial District and active participants in the electoral process, describing journalists as opinion moulders, whose work significantly shapes public perception and governance outcomes.
“He is not only a politician but a journalist. I encourage us to always rally round journalists who are interested in public office,” the NUJ Chairman added, referring to Senator Sampson.
In his remarks, Senator Ekong Sampson described the media as the cornerstone of democracy and national development, stressing the need for truth, objectivity and continuous education in an evolving digital media environment.
The Senator highlighted his ₦100 million education support initiative for students and teachers across Akwa Ibom South as part of his broader commitment to human capital development and people-centred representation.
He aligned his legislative vision with the ARISE Agenda of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, while commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, for what he described as reform-driven leadership and legislative direction.
Senator Sampson also announced plans to establish an Endowment Fund for journalists in Akwa Ibom State, disclosed that the second phase of the empowerment programme, which includes the distribution of vehicles; motorcycles and other support items, would be implemented within the first quarter of the year.
