By Solomon OKPO
The remains of a Nigerian news editor, Dr. Godwin Aniekan Benson, will be laid to rest on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in his hometown of Ikot Akpa Nkuk, Ukanafun Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Dr. Benson, who until his death served as News Editor with the Akwa Ibom Newspaper Corporation, publishers of The Pioneer, passed away in December 2025 at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital at the age of 52.
A respected figure in the journalism profession, he was also a ranking member of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), where he contributed significantly to the growth of the media landscape in the state.
Beyond journalism, the late Benson had an active career in public service. He served as Secretary of Ukanafun Local Government Council and later as Special Assistant on Media and Strategy in the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political and Legislative Affairs. He was equally the Secretary of the Ukanafun Elders Council, a position he held until his passing.
His academic journey reflected a lifelong commitment to knowledge and professional development. He attended Central School, Ikot Akpa Nkuk, and Western Annang Secondary Commercial School (WASCO), before proceeding to the Federal School of Arts and Science, Aba.
He later obtained an Ordinary National Diploma from Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, as well as Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Uyo. In July 2025, he earned a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Communication Studies from the University of Port Harcourt.
According to a statement jointly signed by his son, Utibe-Abasi Benson, and the Central Planning Committee, funeral activities will commence on Monday, April 20, with the opening of a mourning house and condolence visits.
An evening of tributes is scheduled for Thursday, April 23, at 4 p.m. at the NUJ Press Centre, Information Drive, Uyo.
The funeral service will take place on Saturday, April 25, at 10 a.m. at Western Annang Secondary Commercial School, Ikot Akpa Nkuk, to be conducted by the Qua Iboe Church, Ukanafun Area Conference.
Interment will follow immediately at his family compound.
The final rites will conclude with a thanksgiving and memorial service on Sunday, April 26, at Qua Iboe Church, Ikot Akpa Nkuk.
Dr. Benson is survived by his wife, Victoria, three children, his aged mother, siblings, and a wide network of colleagues and friends.
The family has invited friends, well-wishers, and members of the public to attend the burial activities and celebrate the life and legacy of the late media professional.
