By John Ernest
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has appealed to the State Government to exempt state-owned media organisations from the Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy.
The Union argued that the policy introduces bureaucratic bottlenecks that are “alien to media house operations,” hamstringing the efficiency of establishments like the Pioneer Newspapers and the Akwa Ibom State Broadcasting Corporation (AKBC).
This was part of a 9-point communique issued at the end of the Congress held recently at the NUJ Press Centre, Information Drive, Uyo.
The Congress unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the State Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John, and the State Working Committee (SWC). The Union lauded the leadership for recording “remarkable strides” in less than a year since taking office.
Congress members commended the leadership style of Comrade Nsibiet John and expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far in advancing the welfare and activities of the Union in the State.
As part of efforts to preserve the history of the Union, Congress also resolved to embark on a “Wall of Fame” project aimed at immortalizing past leaders of the NUJ and documenting their contributions to the growth and development of journalism practice in Akwa Ibom State.
The Congress further applauded the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, and the Ministry of Health for the successes recorded under the Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Scheme. Members particularly commended the State Vice Chairman of the Union, Comrade Margaret Moore, for her frontline role in public relations, enlightenment campaigns and liaison activities that contributed to the success of the programme.
Congress also welcomed the planned distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets across households in the State, describing it as a major step towards improving public health and combating malaria.
In the area of infrastructure development, the Union praised the Akwa Ibom State Government for partnering with the World Bank to initiate the construction of the Nung Ukod Itam–Ekid Itam II Road project. Congress equally appreciated the government for responding to the Union’s earlier call for the reconstruction of the road linking Itam Market to the Itu Local Government Council Secretariat, which had reportedly become a death trap for motorists and other road users.
As political activities begin to intensify ahead of future elections, Congress urged political stakeholders to play by the rules and avoid actions capable of disrupting the peace and stability of the State. Journalists were equally advised to remain professional, objective and ethical in their reportage.
Congress also received the interim report of the Adhoc Committee established to check the proliferation of splinter groups operating within the media space. The Union warned organisations, institutions and members of the public to be cautious in relating with such groups, stressing that the NUJ remains the authentic body for the regulation of media-related engagements in the country.
Meanwhile, Congress lauded veteran journalist, Comrade Charles Bassey, for establishing the first-ever Internet radio service in Akwa Ibom State, known as CBS Internet Radio. The Union noted that full transmission of the station is expected to commence on May 29, 2026.
The communique was signed by the Chairman of the Communiqué Drafting Committee, Comrade Grace Anderson; Secretary of the Committee, Comrade Anyiaña Umanah; Committee member, Comrade Imaobong Uko; State Secretary of the Union, Comrade Nsikak Esenowo; and the State Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John.
