June 8 (THEWILL) — The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, has urged members of the Energy and Maritime Reporters Association (EMRA), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, to uphold professionalism and competence in the discharge of their duties.
John gave the charge on Monday while receiving the incoming chairman and executive members of the association in his office ahead of their formal inauguration.
Addressing the journalists, the NUJ chairman stressed the importance of maintaining high ethical standards in reportage, noting that professionalism remains the foundation of credibility and relevance in the media industry.
He advised members of the association to distinguish themselves through excellence, continuous learning and responsible journalism, particularly in the coverage of the energy and maritime sectors, which play critical roles in the nation’s economy.
According to him, journalists must ensure that their reports are guided by facts, thorough analysis and a clear understanding of issues, warning that inaccurate narratives often create false impressions among the public.
John also encouraged the incoming executives to embrace teamwork and collective decision-making, stressing that effective leadership requires consultation and broad participation rather than reliance on individual opinions.
The NUJ chairman further urged the journalists to develop strong negotiation and communication skills in their professional engagements, noting that the media environment has become increasingly competitive and demanding.
He commended the efforts of the association in promoting specialised reporting and expressed confidence that the new leadership would strengthen the group’s contribution to journalism practice in Akwa Ibom State.
Responding on behalf of the incoming executives, the chairman-elect of the association, Comrade Ndifreke Harrison, thanked the NUJ leadership for its support and pledged that the new administration would work to advance professional reporting in the energy and maritime sectors while contributing to the growth of journalism in the state.
The visit formed part of activities leading to the inauguration of the new executive committee of the Energy and Maritime Reporters Association, Akwa Ibom State Chapter.
