NUJ hails progress on Calabar-Itu highway, calls for adequate drainage
The Akwa Ibom State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) has commended the Federal Government for its progress on the Calabar–Itu Highway reconstruction.
However, the Union urged contractors to install adequate drainage infrastructure to prevent persistent flooding, which continues to displace local residents and cause severe hardship.
This formed part of a communiqué issued at the end of the union’s June Congress in Uyo on Friday. The document was signed by the State Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John, and the Secretary, Comrade Nsikak Esenowo, alongside members of the communiqué drafting committee.
The council also sought protection for journalists and press freedom, strongly condemning the recent harassment of media professionals carrying out their lawful duties within court premises.
It reaffirmed that journalists must be allowed to perform their constitutional roles without intimidation, obstruction, or undue interference, calling on relevant authorities to uphold press freedom and protect media practitioners at all times.
The Congress also applauded the Akwa Ibom State Government for the inauguration of the Ibom International Hospital, describing it as a significant milestone in strengthening healthcare delivery and medical tourism in the state.
It also appealed to the government to expedite the completion and full operationalization of the Ibom Specialist Hospital to enhance public access to quality healthcare services.
The Congress expressed appreciation to the Akwa Ibom State Government for appointing an NUJ member to the State Road Maintenance Committee, noting that the inclusion reflects confidence in the media profession and strengthens the relationship between the government and journalists in the state.
“Congress expressed concern over the increasing influx of individuals into the Eket Local Government Area, particularly those engaged in commercial motorcycle transportation, scrap metal trading, and scavenging activities. While recognizing the constitutional rights of citizens to reside and work in any part of the country, Congress urged local authorities and security agencies to ensure proper profiling and monitoring of persons and activities within the area in the interest of public safety and security,” the message read.
Regarding the activities of scrap metal dealers and scavengers, the Congress raised additional concerns about their operations across parts of the state. It called on relevant security and regulatory agencies, including the Nigeria Immigration Service, to strengthen monitoring and verification processes to ensure compliance with extant laws and regulations.
The union also expressed concern over the overcrowded conditions of correctional facilities, particularly the high number of awaiting-trial inmates at the Ikot Ekpene Custodial Centre.
The council also urged the judiciary and other stakeholders in the criminal justice system to expedite the trial of pending cases to decongest custodial centers and promote the efficient administration of justice.
“We call on the Eket Local Government Council and relevant environmental agencies to regulate the open processing of cow skin and related activities within the area, noting that the practice poses environmental, public health, and sanitation concerns for affected communities,” the Congress stated.
While reaffirming its commitment to promoting professionalism, defending press freedom, supporting good governance, and contributing to the socio-economic development of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria, the Congress, in the spirit of love and togetherness, also celebrated its members who marked their birthdays in June.