The Akwa Ibom State Deputy Gov; Senator Akon Eyakenyi, (6th from right) with the leaders of Media Professionals from Eket Senatorial District during the visit.
By Anietie Akpan
Akwa Ibom State Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, has commended media professionals from Eket Senatorial District for their vital role in supporting government initiatives.
A release dated June 25, from Media Unit, Office of the Deputy Governor, Senator Eyakenyi made the remarks on Tuesday, when she played host to the leadership of Association of Eket Senatorial District Media Professionals at the Government House, Uyo.
While acknowledging the group’s consistent support since the inception of the current administration, the Deputy Governor noted that Journalists, especially members of the organization have been partners in progress, not only during the previous administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel, but have remained steadfast in backing Governor Umo Eno’s government from its earliest days.
“The role you have played so far, from inception to support governments of the day, is commendable. You were there in the past administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel. You featured very prominently. Even when the administration of Pastor Umo Eno came on board, you keyed into it. And from day one, without mincing words, you’ve been there supporting the administration very strongly.
“That is why in appreciation, the Governor has been able to pick two or three persons amongst you to give appointments, to encourage you. It is an indication that he values what the group is doing”, she said.
Senator Eyakenyi acknowledged Governor Eno as a media-friendly leader who maintains an open dialogue with Journalists, noting that the Governor does not only hold regular media briefings to keep the public informed, but welcomes constructive criticisms without hesitation.
She described the media sector as a crucial pillar of society, responsible for disseminating accurate information, while also offering useful suggestions where necessary.
The Deputy Governor pointed out that Eket Senatorial District media professionals have maintained high standards by ensuring thorough investigation before reporting, which she said has prevented the spread of unverified information.
While wishing the group well in its forthcoming Media Symposium, Senator Eyakenyi sued for more media support for Governor Eno and better reportage of government programmes.
While thanking Senator Eyakenyi for granting them audience, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, who is also the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the of the group, Dr. Essien Ndueso, described the Deputy Governor as a pride of Eket Senatorial District and great Amazon who has given a good account of herself in her public service career.
“For a long time, you have groomed and nurtured us. We always hold you as a pillar and of course, our Grand Patroness. We are proud to associate with you. Your support to us over the years has been unprecedented. We reaffirm our support and solidarity to our Boss, Pastor Umo Eno and align totally with his progressive movement, because we believe that the alignment with the center will open up more opportunities of economic development for our State”, Dr. Ndueso said.
Similarly, Chairman of the Association, Comrade Edet Okpo, disclosed that the group comprises over 400 media professionals and communication scholars with the mandate to promote accountability and good governance in the State.
He used the opportunity to thank Governor Eno for the appointment of some of its members in his administration and pledged continued support for the State Chief Executive.
Present during the visit were the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Deputy Governor, Mr. Joseph Esidem, SA to the Governor on Boundary Matters, Elder Okokon Uffi and the Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Barr. Omen Bassey.
