BY SOLOMON OKPO.
UYO, The President-General of the Amalgamated Newspaper Publishers Association, Akwa Ibom State (ANPA), Pastor Osuiniabasi Alfred, has reaffirmed the association’s commitment to supporting Governor Umo Eno’s administration under the ARISE Agenda while calling on the state government to provide financial and infrastructural assistance to sustain the print media industry.
Pastor Alfred made the call on Thursday, November 13, 2025, during his welcome address at the grand finale of the maiden ANPA Week 2025, held at CEEDAPEG Hotel, Uyo. The event, themed “Symposium, Awards, and Luncheon,” marked the culmination of a week-long celebration featuring community-oriented programmes, including a medical outreach, orphanage visitation, fitness walk, and inspection of government projects.
Quoting American industrialist Henry Ford, Alfred noted that “coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success,” emphasizing that ANPA’s unity and purpose had strengthened the local newspaper industry in the state.
He said ANPA, which comprises publishers and financiers of over 100 Akwa Ibom-based newspapers, plays a crucial role in job creation, journalism development, and democratic engagement through responsible information dissemination.
“ANPA remains an active partner in the success story of Akwa Ibom State,” Alfred stated. “We were the first organized body to pass a vote of confidence in Governor Umo Eno’s administration, pledging to promote and enlighten the public on his achievements. We will continue to do so constructively, with respect and patriotism.”
While expressing appreciation for the state government’s support, the ANPA leader appealed for a monthly subvention to newspaper houses to cushion the impact of rising printing costs and improve staff welfare. He also sought government intervention in establishing an ANPA Business Hub a Publishers’ House and modern printing press that would serve as a training and innovation centre for the local media industry.
Alfred further commended the Central Planning Committee (CPC), chaired by Elder Patrick Albert, for the successful coordination of ANPA Week 2025. He also appreciated members of the state government who are part of the association, including the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Aniekan Umanah; the Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ekerete Udoh; and the Senior Special Assistants to the Governor on Media and Documentation.
“We have received goodwill and patronage from this administration, and in return, we pledge our total loyalty and continued partnership for the development of Akwa Ibom State,” Alfred affirmed.
He concluded with a message of optimism and shared responsibility, urging members to remain committed to professionalism and the growth of the local press.
“Together, we will continue to write, inform, educate, and elevate the voice of Akwa Ibom to greater heights,” he said.
