Hope Restored for Ailing Journalist as Gov. Otu’s Aide, NUJ Provide Accommodation
By Ebi COLLINS
In a commendable act of welfare intervention and professional solidarity, the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the Cross River State Governor, Mr. Edem Darlington, in collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, has secured a new apartment for an ailing journalist with Ibom Nation newspaper, Mr. Enya Ndem, in Calabar.
The apartment was formally handed over on Thursday during a brief but emotional ceremony attended by journalists, government officials and members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the NUJ.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Darlington described the intervention as a humanitarian gesture that transcended professional duty, noting that it reflected genuine concern for the wellbeing of journalists in the state.
“This is beyond journalism. This is beyond what we do. This is humanity. The chairman has gone beyond the boundaries to touch lives and, with the cooperation of the Correspondents’ Chapel chairman, this has become a reality,” he said.
He explained that the journalist’s previous living condition was not befitting and expressed satisfaction that the intervention had restored dignity and comfort.
“At least we have been able to move him from where he was before. We all saw the situation and it wasn’t befitting of anyone staying there. We are happy that he now has a better place to stay,” he added.
The Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Mrs. Eme Offiong, commended the leadership of the Cross River NUJ for prioritising welfare, describing the gesture as unprecedented and deeply humane.
She noted that the union committed substantial resources to secure the accommodation, stressing that the care shown to the journalist reflected unity and compassion within the profession.
“Welfare is quite important, but going this far is not what anybody expected. The care and concern shown to our member is something that cannot be quantified,” she said.
Mrs. Offiong also praised Mr. Darlington for his consistent support to journalists in the state and for strengthening the relationship between government and the media community.
In her remarks, the Chairman of the Cross River State Council of the NUJ, Comrade Archibong Bassey, reaffirmed the union’s commitment to supporting members facing difficult conditions.
She explained that the intervention became necessary after the union became aware of the harsh realities confronting the journalist, insisting that media practitioners deserve dignity and support in recognition of their contributions to society.
Comrade Bassey assured that the NUJ would continue to prioritise welfare-driven interventions aimed at improving the wellbeing and living conditions of journalists across the state.
Overwhelmed with emotion, the beneficiary, Mr. Enya Ndem, expressed profound gratitude to the NUJ leadership, members of the Correspondents’ Chapel and the Cross River State Government for standing by him during his health challenges.
He described the gesture as a rare demonstration of love, unity and professional brotherhood within the journalism community.
“I never expected this level of support. I am deeply grateful to the NUJ leadership, my colleagues and everyone who contributed to making this possible,” he said.
Mr. Ndem added that the new apartment would provide him with comfort, stability and renewed hope as he continues his recovery process.
