By; Patrick Titus, Uyo
Veteran journalist, Mr. Ekerette Udoh has charged journalists to rise above sensationalism, persistent negativity and unsubstantiated allegations of government policies and institutions, noting it as an ill wind that blows no one any good.
Udoh, who is the Chief Press Secretary to Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, however agreed that journalism should contribute meaningfully to the development of the state and society by promoting factual reporting, constructive engagement and a balanced account of government policies and programmes.
Reflecting on the development narrative of a Akwa Ibom from creation in 1987, Mr. Udoh charged journalists to use their platforms to project the state positively by highlighting its development strides, tourism potential and achievements of successive administrations.
He spoke in Uyo on Friday while guaranteeing Governor Umo Eno’s support to the hosting of this year’s Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, as planning committee members paid him a courtesy visit.
He maintained that Akwa Ibom’s development story deserved responsible documentation, noting that the state had evolved considerably since its creation in 1987, from the infrastructure challenges of its early years to its present standing as a destination with growing tourism and investment prospects.
According to him, the media has a critical responsibility to tell the Akwa Ibom story in a manner that reflects the state’s progress, recognises the contributions of successive administrations and encourages public confidence in legitimate development initiatives.
Mr. Udoh, who disclosed that he had been in journalism since 1985, when he worked with the Hint Magazine, said his years of professional experience had reinforced his conviction that journalists must understand their responsibility in shaping public perception and defining the identity of their communities.
He particularly highlighted the tourism potential of Akwa Ibom, describing the sector as one of the state’s comparative advantages and commending the present administration’s investments in tourism infrastructure and other major development projects.
The CPS called on journalists to scrutinise issues responsibly without resorting to deliberate attacks on public institutions or the manipulation of information for political interests, insisting that criticism should be guided by facts, professional ethics and the public interest.
Mr Udoh described himself as a media professional who preferred to work behind the scenes to support others, adding that the future of the profession depended on building a new generation of capable and responsible journalists.
He also emphasised the need to nurture younger media practitioners, expressing his commitment to creating opportunities for emerging professionals to develop their skills, assume leadership responsibilities and expand the frontiers of journalism in the state.
Earlier, the Chairman of the 2026 Press Week Committee, Comrade Gideon Ekere, commended the CPS for his consistent guidance and support for journalists, describing his engagement with the union as an encouragement to younger practitioners and an opportunity to strengthen collaboration between the media and government.
Comrade Ekere informed the CPS that the 2026 Press Week was scheduled to commence on November 29, 2026, with a thanksgiving service and culminating in Saturday December 5, 2026 with dinner and awards night.
The 2026 NUJ Press Week is expected to provide a platform for professional reflection, recognition of journalistic excellence and renewed commitment to ethical journalism and the development of Akwa Ibom State.
