By Solomon OKPO
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has called for sustained dialogue and just engagement with Ekid Nation over concerns surrounding Stubbs Creek, Akoiyak, stressing that robust engagement and adequate compensation remain critical to lasting peace and development.
The call formed part of resolutions reached at the January Congress of the NUJ, held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at the NUJ Press Centre, Information Drive, Uyo, as contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting.
Rising from what it described as exhaustive deliberations, the Congress urged the Akwa Ibom State Government to intensify dialogue with Ekid Nation to close existing gaps of suspicion and foster mutual trust and positive energy.
Congress expressed deep appreciation to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D., for the Christmas packages extended to members of the NUJ, describing the gesture as thoughtful and morale-boosting.
It also congratulated Comrade Aniekeme Finbarr on his appointment as Media Manager of Sumedha Energy Limited, expressing confidence that his professional experience would add value to the organisation.
On labour matters, Congress passionately appealed to Governor Eno to urgently intervene in the plight of casual workers of the Akwa Ibom State Broadcasting Corporation (AKBC), also known as Permanent Artistes.
It noted with concern that some of the workers have served for over 15 years and are owed stipends running into more than three years, urging the government to clear the arrears and formally recognise their years of service upon absorption.
The Congress condemned in strong terms the activities of pirates who extort and terrorise fishermen along the waterways in Mbo Local Government Area and other parts of the state, calling on the Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways to intensify efforts to secure the waterways and protect lives and livelihoods.
It also appealed to the state government to fast-track the construction of the Ibaka Road in Mbo Local Government Area, describing the delay as a major source of hardship for residents and road users.
On environmental concerns, Congress drew the attention of Sumedha Energy Limited and Sterling Oil Venture, in partnership with NNPC Exploration and Production Limited, to reported gas flaring and pollution of drinking water sources in Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, urging immediate remedial action to avert environmental and public health crises.
The NUJ further called on the state government to address the arbitrary increase in house rents, particularly in Uyo metropolis, and advocated the construction of low-income housing to cater for low and middle-income earners.
While commending the release of ₦78 billion for the settlement of gratuity and pension backlogs, Congress appealed for the prompt payment of retirees yet to be captured, especially those who retired between 2021 and 2025.
Congress also applauded Governor Eno for awarding contracts for the construction of 85 internal roads across the state, describing the move as a strategic step towards positioning Akwa Ibom as a premier tourism destination. It equally commended the government and the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Anieti Udofia, for efforts at repositioning the tourism sector, particularly the successful hosting of Christmas Unplugged 3.0.
The communiqué was signed by Comrade Otobong Nsekpong, Chairman; Comrade Benjamin Jimmy, Secretary; and Comrade Celestina Ukpong, Member of the Communiqué Drafting Committee, alongside the State Secretary, Comrade Nsikak Esenowo, and the State Chairman, Comrade Nsibiet John.
