Media professionals in Akwa Ibom have been applauded for their efforts to project the “developmental strides” recorded by Udom Emmanuel, governor of the state, and have been urged to sustain the partnership.
The appeal was made by Emmanuel Sam, special assistant to the governor on local media, while hosting a delegation of media professionals from Sensor Chapel of the state council of Nigeria Union of Journalists l in his office on Friday.
Sam thanked the media community in the state for putting the state on the global map, adding that an investor would find out so much about the wealth, development and rich cultural heritage of Akwa Ibom state by mere click of the botton.
He said several indicators have shown that the Emmanuel administration is media friendly and means well for them.
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He listed Emmanuel’s flagship projects as construction of Information Drive which created motorable access to major media institutions including the state secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Nigeria Institute of Public Relations, Akwa Ibom State Newsprint company and others.
He said the administration has appointed many media professionals as aides to the governor and has operated in close affinity with journalists on issues of development.
Sam said the Sensor newspaper is one of the oldest newspapers still in circulation and commended the chapel for identifying with government during its annual celebration, adding that he will be a part of it.
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He, however, appealed for objectivity and balance in reporting events in the state so as not to create an incorrect image of the state to people abroad.
“As professionals, it is important to remain objective in reporting events. Taking a little time to hear from all parties before going to press will not only make our reports balanced but will also avoid painting incorrect image of events to the public,” he said.
“The growth and development of Akwa Ibom state should supersede political affiliation and personal gain. As members of the forth estate of the realm, we owe the people an obligation to be truthful, non partisan and objective.”
Tony Esin, leader of the Sensor chapel delegation, congratulated Sam on his meritorious appointment.
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He said as a chapel formed from one of the foremost newspapers, the executive thought it wise to pay a courtesy visit on the SA to intimate him of events of their forthcoming chapel week.
Esin acknowledged the magnanimity of state government to journalists in the state and reassured the SA that as professionals they will always abide by ethics of the profession.
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