A'Ibom Speaker Pledges Synergy With NUJ For Mutual Benefits
By Unyime BASSEY, Uyo
Akwa Ibom House of Assembly Speaker, Rt Hon Udeme Otong has pledged to cultivate a robust synergy with the Nigeria Union of Journalists in the running of the Legislature to bolster existing ties.
Otong stated this on Thursday when he hosted the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom Council during a courtesy visit.
The 8th Assembly helmsman expressed appreciation to the Union for the smooth relationship with the House as demonstrated by the effective coverage and objective reportage of plenary sessions of legislative proceedings since its inauguration by the Assembly Press Corp.
He announced the readiness of the Assembly to liaise with the Union for the training of the press corps to enhance capacity and sued for closer working ties with the Assembly for mutual benefits.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman of Akwa Ibom Council ,Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Comrade Amos Etuk expressed delight over the cordial relationship between the House and the Press Corps.
He commended the Speaker for appointing a veteran journalist, Emmanuel Ebong, as his Chief Press Secretary noting the gesture indicated the quest of the Speaker for effective collaboration to advance mutual interest.
Etuk solicited for better welfare package for the Press Corps and conducive environment for optimum productivity.
The NUJ boss also urged the State House of Assembly to ensure prompt domestication of Freedom of Information Act in the state equip journalists to effectively coverage government activities revealing that Akwa Ibom is one of the states yet to domesticate the FOI Act.
He explained that the domestication of the Act will go a long way in assisting the Fourth Estate of the Realm in setting agenda for the government which he stressed would promote good governance leading to delivery of better democratic dividend.
Present at the courtesy visit were the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Kufreabasi Edidem Chairman, House Committee on Information, Hon. Jerry Otu Hon. Emem Udom, Prince Sampson Idiong Hon. Lawrence Udoide as well the Clerk of the House, Mrs. Nsikakabasi Oro
