Some Journalists led by Comrade Archibong Bassey (5th from right) in a group photograph after service at the Chapel of Redemption, University of Calabar on Sunday, to end the one week celebration.
By Ita Williams, Calabar
In an exciting celebration of the 2025 World Press Freedom Day, the Cross River State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) hosted a weeklong lineup of events to commemorate the significance of a free and responsible press in democracy and nation-building.
From humanitarian visits to spiritual reflections and intellectual discussions, journalists across the state showcased their commitment to service, truth, and community.
In giving back to society, NUJ’s outreach to the Correctional Centre and Orphanage commenced on May 2nd, when members of the state Council Union visited the Afokang Correctional Centre in Calabar and presented gift items to inmates. These items were received on behalf of the Centre by its Public Relations Officer, Mr. Effanga Etim.
While receiving the donations, Officer Etim expressed appreciation for the gesture. “We are grateful for this act of kindness. The role journalists play in informing and shaping the nation cannot be overstated,” he said, commending the Union’s involvement in social development.
The Union also visited Holy Mother Elizabeth Obu’s Less-Privileged Home, where they donated bags of rice and other essential supplies. Mummy Anne Odudu, the caretaker of the home, received the donations with joy.
“We are deeply touched by the generosity and the overwhelming number of journalists who came. Your presence means a lot to us,” she said adding, “I pray this media week will be successful and impactful.”
Responding, Comrade Archibong Bassey, Chairman of the NUJ Cross River Council, assured the home of the Union’s continued support.
“We will keep you in our prayers and find ways to support you beyond today,” she promised.
A motivational session was held on Monday, May 5, at the NUJ Press Centre, featuring prominent media veterans and academics. Speakers included Prof. Patrick Ene Okon of the University of Calabar.
In his remarks, Prof. Patrick Ene Okon, a respected academic voice in media and communication, stressed the importance of personal discipline and professionalism in journalism.
He expressed growing concern about the overdependence on digital tools and urged modern journalists to embrace diligence as a core value of the profession. According to him, while technology can enhance reporting, it should not replace the rigorous processes of verification, fact-checking, and thoughtful analysis that define responsible journalism.
He warned that shortcuts enabled by modern devices often compromise the depth and credibility of news stories.
In his words, “Today’s practising journalists should strive to be diligent, and not rely much on today’s technology”.
Mr. Ogbang Akwaji (former Head of Service and former Editor-in-Chief, Nigerian Chronicle), and Comrade Uduak Ikang-Obeten of CRBC also spoke.
In her remarks, Comrade Ikang-Obeten highlighted the essence of upholding discipline within the NUJ.
“In NUJ, there are laid-down rules for managing issues among members. Leadership must not personalize disciplinary actions,” she stressed.
“There are committees to handle such matters, and leaders must adhere to due process. You cannot run an organization on sentiment. Discipline must be guided by rules, not personal feelings,” she emphasized.
The celebration continued with various activities throughout the week, blending wellness, sports, and veteran outreach.
On Tuesday, welfare visits were made to five veteran journalists, followed by recreational games.
Wednesday featured a health-focused session where Dr. Otu Egbe, a clinical psychologist from the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Calabar, delivered a talk on “Mental Health and Stress Management”.
This was followed by medical screening conducted by a team from ASI Ukpo Hospital.
On Thursday, a public conference was held on Domesticating the National Sports Policy at The Tent, Calabar Municipality.
The event was declared open by Governor Bassey Otu and featured notable resource persons, including Mr. Bong Duke, Vice Chairman, Cross River State Planning Commission, Mr. Ama-Ebi Ebipolade, Vice Chairman, Nigeria Table Tennis Federation, South-South Zone and public analyst Dr. Macfalane Ejah.
Later in the day, journalists gathered for a social evening of old-school music and bonding at the Ernest Etim Bassey Press Centre.
As part of the interfaith engagement, the NUJ leadership joined Muslim faithful for Friday prayers at the Calabar Central Mosque, where the Cleric cautioned against fake news.
Addressing the congregation, Imam Akere Abdulhafeez warned against spreading fake news and misinformation.
“We Muslims must not believe everything published on social media. The Qur’an warns of severe consequences for spreading untruths,” he cautioned noting that, “untruths destabilize society, breed insecurity and discrimination. Always verify information before sharing.”
Imam Abdulhafeez also prayed for national peace, economic growth, and religious harmony.
In response, Comrade Eyo Charles, Chairman of the 2025 Media Week Committee, thanked the Imam for his timely message.
“NUJ is a union of diverse faiths and beliefs. We appreciate your call for truth and unity,” he said.
The weeklong celebration concluded with a Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, May 11, at the Chapel of Redemption, University of Calabar and Rev. Dr. Joseph Ushie, who preached from Judges 16:2, emphasized the theme “Common Standards Among Church Leaders.”
He called on journalists to embrace integrity in their practice. “Like Samson, every professional is called to a higher standard. Let truth and integrity be the foundation of your work,” he urged.
As the curtains fell on the 2025 Media Week, the Cross River NUJ left a strong impression, highlighting the critical role of journalists not only as watchdogs of society but as agents of compassion, discipline, and unity. Kudos to the Bassey led Executive!