By Our Repoerter
UYO , The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, is set to honour veteran journalist and Publisher of The Evangelist Newspaper, Comrade Solomon Okpo, as he marks his 70th birthday and celebrates more than four decades of distinguished service to journalism.
The event, scheduled for June 18, 2026, at the NUJ Press Centre in Uyo, is expected to attract journalists, media stakeholders, public officials, family members, friends and admirers who will gather to celebrate Okpo’s enduring contributions to the media profession and society.
As part of preparations for the celebration, members of the planning committee on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, to formally invite him and seek his support for the event.
The delegation comprised Editor of City Watch Newspaper, Comrade Israel Ernest; Secretary of Unity Chapel, Comrade Mabel Ekanem; and Chairman of the State Information Chapel of the NUJ, Comrade Edifon Solomon.
Speaking during the visit, Elder Bassey described Okpo as a distinguished journalist whose dedication to ethical journalism, balanced reportage and mentorship of younger media practitioners has earned him widespread respect within and outside the profession.
He noted that hard work, dedication and selfless service invariably attract recognition, adding that Okpo’s life and career remain a testament to the rewards of integrity, commitment and professionalism.
According to the Commissioner, the planned celebration is a deserving tribute to a media icon whose contributions have positively impacted journalism and society. He pledged his support towards the success of the event and urged journalists and other professionals to emulate Okpo’s exemplary qualities of discipline, integrity and service to humanity.
Speaking on behalf of the planning committee, Comrade Edifon Solomon said the celebration is intended not only to commemorate Okpo’s attainment of 70 years but also to recognise his remarkable contributions to journalism spanning over four decades.
For more than 40 years, Okpo has remained a respected figure in Nigeria’s media landscape, earning recognition for his commitment to ethical journalism, community development and nation-building. Through The Evangelist Newspaper, he has consistently championed public interest journalism, promoted accountability and amplified the voices of ordinary citizens.
Widely regarded as a media veteran, Okpo has built a reputation for professionalism, fairness and excellence. Beyond journalism, he has contributed significantly to community development and grassroots initiatives, touching numerous lives through advocacy and civic engagement.
He has served as Chairman of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, and remains an active stakeholder in the NUJ, Akwa Ibom State Council. He is also a member of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law State Working Group and has mentored countless young journalists and industrial training students over the years.
The June 18 celebration is expected to provide an opportunity for colleagues, associates, friends and well-wishers to honour a man whose life and career exemplify service, integrity, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to humanity.
