By Solomon OKPO
The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, has described newspaper publishers as essential partners in promoting development and advancing Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda through effective information dissemination, civic engagement, and accountability.
Speaking on Thursday in Uyo at the 2025 Amalgamated Newspaper Publishers of Akwa Ibom (ANPA) Week, themed “The Relevance of Newspaper Publishers in State Development: The Case of Akwa Ibom State Under the ARISE Agenda,” Umanah, who was represented by his Special Assistant, Mr. Udeme Inyang, emphasized that newspapers remain a powerful tool for shaping public opinion and strengthening communication between government and the people.
“No media platform makes a more lasting impression on the public than the print media,” the Commissioner stated.
Umanah highlighted the role of newspapers in educating citizens about government policies, promoting transparency, and serving as a permanent record of government decisions and historical developments.
He explained that the ARISE Agenda—covering Agricultural Revolution, Rural Development, Infrastructure Maintenance and Advancement, Security Management, and Education and Health Sector Advancement—requires the active collaboration of the media to amplify its objectives.
According to him, publishers can help advance the agenda by reporting milestones, facilitating public feedback, and promoting accountability through investigative journalism.
He also urged the press to tell more human-interest stories that showcase the impact of government programmes such as the Free Food Distribution Scheme and ARISE Compassionate Homes, noting that such coverage strengthens citizen engagement and builds trust in governance.
Commending ANPA for organizing the event, the Commissioner said the annual week provides a valuable platform for strengthening collaboration between the government and the media sector.
“We encourage publishers to go beyond routine publicity and take up their role as active partners in Akwa Ibom’s transformation journey under the ARISE Agenda,” Umanah added.
Earlier, ANPA Chairman, Pastor Osuini-Abasi Alfred, expressed appreciation to the State Government for its continuous support for media development and for recognizing the contributions of newspaper publishers to state growth.
