By John Ernest
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has called on the Akwa Ibom State Government to strengthen Information and Public Relations Units across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to improve the dissemination of government policies, programmes and achievements.
The State Chairman of the Union, Comrade Nsibiet John, made the call during an interaction with Governor Umo Eno and members of the State Executive Council, emphasizing the strategic role Information Officers play in projecting government activities and ensuring effective communication with the public.
According to him, many Information and Public Relations Units in MDAs require enhanced support, improved logistics and adequate operational tools to enable officers discharge their responsibilities efficiently.
John stressed the need for regular training and retraining of Information Officers, noting that the rapidly evolving media landscape demands continuous capacity building and acquisition of modern communication skills.
The NUJ Chairman also renewed the union’s advocacy for the implementation of a Weigh-In Allowance for Information Officers, arguing that their duties often extend beyond normal working hours as they cover official engagements, government events and special assignments across the state.
He maintained that improving welfare packages, providing adequate resources and investing in professional development would significantly boost government communication efforts and enhance public awareness of government programmes and policies.
Responding, Governor Umo Eno acknowledged the vital role Information Officers play in governance and assured that his administration would continue to support initiatives aimed at enhancing their productivity and effectiveness.
The governor described Information Officers as indispensable partners in governance, serving as a crucial link between government and the people through the dissemination of accurate and timely information.
He noted that no administration can effectively implement its programmes and policies without a robust communication structure driven by dedicated information professionals.
Governor Eno further stated that his administration recognizes the importance of capacity building and would continue to encourage training and retraining programmes for Information Officers and other categories of public servants.
He observed that the changing dynamics of communication, particularly with the rise of digital technology and social media platforms, make it imperative for Information Officers to continuously update their knowledge and skills.
The governor assured that concerns relating to logistics, operational support and welfare packages, including the request for a Weigh-In Allowance, would be examined by the appropriate government agencies.
While refraining from making immediate commitments, he reaffirmed government’s resolve to create an enabling environment that would allow workers to perform at their optimum level.
Governor Eno also highlighted key achievements recorded under his administration’s ARISE Agenda, particularly in infrastructure development, healthcare, education, agriculture and economic empowerment.
He said the government has sustained investments in road construction, rural development projects, healthcare improvement and empowerment programmes targeted at entrepreneurs, farmers and small business owners across the state.
The governor commended media practitioners and Information Officers for their contributions to the promotion of government activities and urged them to remain professional, objective and committed to the ethics of journalism and public communication.
Earlier, Comrade John applauded Governor Eno for maintaining a cordial relationship with the media and fostering an enabling environment for information management in the state. He expressed optimism that the governor would give favourable consideration to the requests aimed at strengthening Information and Public Relations Units in MDAs and improving the welfare of Information Officers.
