Gov. Umo Eno.
By Assam Abia
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has called on the Akwa Ibom State Government (AKSG) to urgently open constructive dialogue with Ekid Nation over concerns surrounding Stubbs Creek, also known as Akoiyak, warning that sustained engagement is necessary to restore trust and ensure lasting peace.
The call comes on the heels of the recent arrest and arraignment of Princess God’sown Udoito over issues relating to the Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve, an action that has sparked widespread public outrage, and formed the central resolution of the January Congress of the Union held on Thursday 15, 2026, at the NUJ Press Center, Information Drive, Uyo.
The congress noted that transparent and sincere discussions would help bridge gaps of suspicion and foster mutual understanding between the state government and the Ekid people.
In the communiqué issued at the end of the congress, NUJ also expressed profound appreciation to Governor Umo Eno for the Christmas packages extended to members of the union, describing the gesture as thoughtful and morale-boosting.
The congress congratulated Comrade Aniekeme Finbarr on his appointment as Media Manager of Sumedha Energy Limited, expressing confidence that his wealth of experience in journalism and public relations would add value to the organisation.
Raising concerns about workers’ welfare, NUJ appealed to the governor to urgently intervene in the plight of casual workers of the Akwa Ibom State Broadcasting Corporation (AKBC), popularly known as Permanent Artistes.
The union lamented that some of the workers have put in over 15 years of service and are owed stipends spanning more than three years, urging the state government to clear the arrears and regularise their employment.
On security, the congress condemned the activities of pirates terrorising fishermen along the waterways in Mbo Local Government Area and other parts of the state, calling on the Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways to intensify efforts to safeguard lives and livelihoods.
It also appealed for expedited construction of the Ibaka Road to ease the hardship faced by residents and road users.
The union further drew attention to reported gas flaring and pollution of drinking water sources in Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, allegedly involving Sumedha Energy Limited and Sterling Oil Venture in partnership with NNPC Exploration and Production Limited. NUJ urged the companies to take immediate remedial action to avert environmental and public health risks.
In the area of housing, the congress called on the state government to address the arbitrary increase in house rents, particularly in Uyo metropolis, while also appealing for the construction of low-income housing to cater for low- and middle-income earners.
While commending the state government for releasing ₦78 billion to settle backlog of gratuities and pensions, NUJ appealed for the prompt payment of retirees yet to be captured, especially those who retired between 2021 and 2025.
The congress also applauded Governor Umo Eno for awarding contracts for the construction of 85 internal roads across the state, describing the initiative as a boost to infrastructure development and tourism. It equally commended the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Anieti Udofia, for efforts at repositioning the tourism sector, particularly the successful hosting of Christmas Unplugged 3.0.
NUJ, however, condemned the brutal killing of a young boy, Timothy, allegedly by a soldier said to be attached to Sterling Oil Company, and called on relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate the incident and ensure that the culprit is brought to justice.
The communiqué was signed by Comrade Otobong Nsekpong, Chairman of the Communiqué Drafting Committee; Comrade Benjamin Jimmy, Secretary; Comrade Celestina Ukpong, Member; as well as the State Secretary, Comrade Nsikak Esenowo, and the State Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John.
