By Julius Nsikak
A new era for energy and maritime journalism in Akwa Ibom State began on Tuesday as Harrison Ndifreke assumed office as Chairman of the Energy and Maritime Reporters of Nigeria (EMR), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, with a commitment to raise professional standards, deepen investigative reporting and strengthen collaboration with industry stakeholders.
Ndifreke made the pledge during the inauguration of the newly elected Executive Council of the association, describing the event as more than a change of leadership but a renewed commitment to responsible journalism in two sectors that remain central to Nigeria’s economic development.
Addressing members and guests shortly after taking the oath of office, the new chairman said journalists covering the energy and maritime industries must continue to provide accurate, balanced and insightful reports that promote accountability, transparency and sustainable growth.
He expressed appreciation to the national leadership of EMR for entrusting him and his team with the responsibility of leading the state chapter, assuring members that the confidence placed in them would be justified through dedicated service and purposeful leadership.
Ndifreke also acknowledged the contributions of the immediate past State Chairman, Dr. Saviour Ekpe, praising his commitment and sacrifices towards the growth and stability of the association in Akwa Ibom State.
“We shall build upon the foundation that has been laid,” he said, while outlining an ambitious agenda centred on capacity development, professional ethics, strategic partnerships and enhanced visibility for the association.
According to him, regular training programmes will be prioritised to equip members with the knowledge and skills required to effectively report on the rapidly evolving energy and maritime sectors.
He added that the new administration would encourage investigative journalism, strengthen engagement with key industry players and create opportunities for professional growth among members.
The chairman stressed that unity would remain a major pillar of his leadership, noting that the association’s success depends largely on the collective commitment of its members.
He called on members to support the new executive through active participation, innovative contributions and constructive engagement aimed at advancing the objectives of the association.
Ndifreke also appealed to stakeholders and development partners to sustain their support for the association, expressing optimism that stronger collaboration would contribute to the growth of both the media profession and the industries it covers.
He assured members that the newly inaugurated executive council would be guided by integrity, dedication and accountability in the discharge of its responsibilities.
The executive council inaugurated alongside Ndifreke includes Helen John as Vice Chairman, Mabel Ekanem as Secretary, Josephine Ekpa as Treasurer, Deborah Young as Auditor, Ofonime Honesty as Assistant Secretary, Udeme Utip as Public Relations Officer, Unyime Ekwere KSJ as Welfare Officer, Comrade Solomon Okpo as Director of Programmes and Diananasi Effiong as Director of Marketing.
The inauguration ceremony attracted media practitioners, industry stakeholders, members of the association and invited guests from within and outside Akwa Ibom State.
