By Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
In a show of solidarity, compassion, and unionism, the South-South leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), led by the Vice President of Zone F (South-South), Comrade Opaka Dokubo, on Friday visited the ailing Secretary of the NUJ Cross River State Council, Comrade Mike Abang, at his residence in Calabar.
The delegation assured Abang of the union’s unwavering support as he continues to recover from a stroke.
The visit provided an opportunity for the zonal leadership to offer prayers, encouragement, and words of comfort to the veteran journalist while commending the remarkable progress he has made in his recovery.
Speaking during the visit, Dokubo apologised for the leadership’s inability to visit earlier due to official engagements during their previous trip to Cross River State.
He explained that although they were unable to visit in person at the time, the entire zonal leadership had remained united in prayers and concern for their colleague.
“Even after we left, our thoughts and prayers never left you. We see you as one of us, and we value you,” Dokubo said, assuring Abang that the union would continue to stand by him throughout his recovery.
He described service to the NUJ as largely sacrificial, noting that although the union may not always have the financial capacity to meet every need of its members, its leadership remains committed to supporting colleagues during difficult times.
Dokubo expressed gratitude to God for Abang’s recovery, observing that many stroke victims either do not survive or are left with severe disabilities.
“Today, we can see you and talk with you, and God has brought you through the worst. Many people have gone through this experience and did not survive. Your recovery is a testimony to God’s grace and intervention,” he said.
The NUJ Zone F Vice President also urged journalists to pay greater attention to their health by undergoing regular medical check-ups, adhering to prescribed medications, and maintaining healthy lifestyles.
He stressed that early medical intervention remains critical to overcoming serious health challenges.
Responding, Comrade Mike Abang thanked the zonal leadership for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of genuine brotherhood that had given him a renewed sense of belonging within the union.
Abang recounted his difficult health journey over the past few months, revealing that he survived two strokes within a short period, which he described as a miracle of God’s grace.
He said he has continued to respond positively to treatment and rehabilitation, adding that his condition has improved significantly through consistent medication and medical care.
The recovering journalist also appreciated journalists across the South-South zone and beyond for their prayers, encouragement, and support throughout his illness, expressing optimism that he would soon return to full strength.
The three-member zonal delegation comprised the Vice President of NUJ Zone F (South-South), Comrade Opaka Dokubo; the Zonal Trustee, Comrade Gabriel Ekaidem; and the Chairman of the NUJ Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Naibiet John.
They were joined during the visit by the Chairman of the NUJ Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey, and the Council’s Assistant Secretary, Comrade Kingsley Agim.
