Eket, Media stakeholders, development experts, and corporate communicators convened on Wednesday at Nissi Hall, Eden Hotels Limited, Eket, for a strategic symposium aimed at evaluating the influence of communication and corporate governance on development efforts in Akwa Ibom State, particularly the impact of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives by oil and gas firms.
The symposium, themed “Communication Dynamics and Corporate Governance in Akwa Ibom State”, featured a compelling sub-theme: “Appraising the Impact of Corporate Social Responsibilities of Oil and Gas Companies on Akwa Ibom’s Development Progress.”
Organized by the Association of Eket Senatorial District Media Professionals, the forum drew participants from key sectors including government, oil and gas corporations, academia, civil society, and journalism.
In his keynote address, Mr. Moffat Ekoriko, Publisher of NewsAfrica (London), spoke on “Communication Dynamics and Corporate Governance in the Niger Delta Region”, emphasizing the role of media in strengthening transparency and corporate ethics.
Mr. Ogechukwu Udeagha, General Manager, Public and Government Affairs, Seplat Energy Producing Nigeria Unlimited, delivered a thought-provoking lecture titled “Beyond the Headlines”, focusing on media responsibility in shaping public perception and corporate accountability.
In the second paper, Professor Herbert Batta, a scholar of science communication and mass media at the University of Uyo, dissected the state of CSR implementation by oil companies in his presentation, “Appraising the Impact of Corporate Social Responsibilities of Oil and Gas Companies on Akwa Ibom’s Development Process.”
Adding academic depth, Professor Peter Esuh, Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, University of Uyo, presented the lead paper titled “Surveillance Journalism and the Imperatives of Good Governance in Akwa Ibom State”, where he emphasized the need for an alert and independent press in monitoring development projects.
The forum’s discussions highlighted gaps between corporate promises and community expectations, urging oil companies to prioritize transparency, community engagement, and sustainable development. Speakers called for the media to serve not just as observers but as active agents in demanding accountability and bridging communication between stakeholders and host communities.
In a reflective moment, a photograph of attendees seated together was captured by a participating journalist, symbolizing the collective commitment to progress through responsible journalism and mutual collaboration.
The symposium concluded with a strong resolution: that media professionals must remain unwavering in their watchdog role, holding corporations to their CSR obligations while promoting inclusive growth.
The high point of the event was the presentation of awards to seventeen distinguished personalities in recognition of their contributions to media development and community service.
