Akwa Ibom State Government has charged media practitioners in the state to uphold professionalism and embrace development-focused journalism as part of their contributions to state building and transformation.

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Ekerete Udoh, gave the charge at the Press Centre, Government House, Uyo, when the newly elected State Working Committee (SWC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) paid him a courtesy visit.

Congratulating the new NUJ leadership, Mr. Udoh encouraged the Union to promote responsible and ethical media practice, stressing that the peace, unity, and progress of Akwa Ibom State must remain above individual sentiments or persuasions.

He expressed confidence that the new team would work collaboratively with government to highlight the development strides of Governor Umo Eno, especially through the ARISE Agenda, which has continued to record remarkable impact across sectors.

According to the Governor’s spokesperson, government remains committed to supporting the NUJ in its role as a vital partner in development and public enlightenment.

Earlier, the NUJ Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John, commended Governor Umo Eno for his sustained support to the Union, citing the successful completion and commissioning of the NUJ Auditorium as well as the provision of vehicles to the immediate past executive members.

He pledged the Union’s commitment to partner with government in projecting the ARISE Agenda while appealing for continued assistance to enhance its programmes and strengthen media practice in the state.

Also present at the event was the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, Dr. Ndueso Essien, among other government functionaries.