July 13, (THEWILL) — The frontline chairmanship candidate for the Akwa Ibom State NUJ election scheduled for August 2, 2025, Comrade Nsibiet John, has pledged to prioritise the welfare of journalists in his agenda to reposition the union.
John, who is the publisher of The Ink Newspaper, articulated his vision for the Union during a strategic engagement with the leadership of the Amalgamated Newspaper Publishers Association (ANPA), where he formally unveiled his manifesto.
He introduced members of his campaign team to include Comrade Margaret Moore, who is contesting as Vice Chairman, and Comrade Nsikak Esenowo, as vying for the office of Council Secretary.
Comrade John, however, emphasised a pressing need to transform the NUJ into a proactive and responsive body truly focused on member needs. If elected, he promised to enhance the socio-economic well-being of journalists, reinforce institutional integrity, and create pathways for career advancement.
“Journalists are integral to societal development, yet many operate under harsh conditions without access to basic tools, insurance, or regular training.
“My administration will change this narrative. We will forge partnerships to facilitate consistent capacity-building workshops, equip journalists with modern working tools, and advocate for health insurance schemes for our practising members”. He promised.
John envisions the NUJ anchored in professionalism, unity, and empowerment. He outlined plans to collaborate with esteemed media development organisations, private sector stakeholders, and government bodies to promote ethical journalism and nurture young reporters.
He also pledged his commitment to exploring and implementing welfare packages such as financial assistance, housing initiatives, and workplace safety protocols through sustainable structures.
Acknowledging significant challenges confronting the union, including a decline in trust towards its leadership and a disconnect between members and the executive, Comrade John asserted that he represents a new wave of leadership designed to close these gaps, restore confidence, and make the NUJ more inclusive.
“My team is not merely contesting for office; we seek to serve, to introduce innovative ideas, to foster accountability, and to operate a transparent union. We aim to restore pride in the NUJ, believing that with the support of our colleagues and the elders, this vision is achievable,” he added.
Several ANPA members, including President General Osuini Abasi Alfred and Board of Trustees Chairman Elder Ernest Akpan, alongside former NUJ Chairmen, Elder Patrick Albert, and Comrade Sundey Antai, seized the opportunity to voice concerns regarding issues faced by media practitioners in the state.
These, according to them, included: inadequate remuneration, police harassment, and lack of legal safeguards against threats.
ANPA leadership commended Comrade John’s ambitious vision and his mature approach to engaging various stakeholders. They regarded his visit as a manifestation of humility and strategic foresight—qualities deemed vital for effective union leadership.
THEWILL reports that, as the election date approaches, Comrade Nsibiet John and his team are garnering widespread support from various media factions and industry figures who believe his candidacy symbolises a departure from past practices and heralds a future of renewed hope for journalists in Akwa Ibom State.
