From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
The Cross River State Government has tremendously commended journalists in the state and across Nigeria at large for their unwavering commitment to responsible and ethical reporting.
It noted that the state, under the leadership of Comrade Archibong Bassey, has continued to enjoy the positive impact of balanced journalism reportage that highlights governance issues with fairness and objectivity.
The State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, gave the commendation while inspecting the newly installed 150KVA solar power supply provided by the state government for journalists at the NUJ Press Centre in Calabar on Monday.
Dr. Ekpang said the media’s extensive coverage of developmental projects in Cross River, especially during the electioneering period, demonstrates the press’s dedication to its constitutional duty as the watchdog of society.
The Commissioner attributed the healthy relationship between the government and the media to the administration’s policy of openness, regular access to information, and mutual respect for journalistic responsibilities.
He hailed the State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey, for her pragmatic leadership and innovation at the Press Centre, describing it as unprecedented and a milestone towards strengthening professional capacity in line with international best practices.
Dr. Ekpang stressed the need for journalists in the state to continually upskill in response to emerging developments in the media landscape.
He reaffirmed that the Cross River State Government remains committed to transparency, accountability, and open communication with the media, explaining that an informed citizenry is essential for effective governance.
The Commissioner assured that the government would continue to prioritise the welfare of journalists and create an enabling environment for them to work productively.
In her remarks, the State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey, thanked the state government for the gesture, noting that it would provide uninterrupted power supply to the Press Centre and enhance journalism practice in the state.
She reiterated the commitment of journalists in the state to continue highlighting government activities, programmes, and projects towards achieving developmental goals.
The highpoint of the visit was the presentation of a letter of appreciation by the Council Chairman to the Governor for the gesture.