December 01, (THEWILL) – Senator Ekong Sampson, representing Akwa Ibom South (Eket) Senatorial District, has pledged to ensure that Akwa Ibom’s interests are protected as the Senate deliberates on the proposed Tax Reform Bill.
Speaking during the Dinner Night and unveiling of the Correspondents’ Chapel Compendium Magazine, The Critique, in Uyo over the weekend, Senator Sampson stressed the need for robust public scrutiny of the bill to guarantee fairness.
“In lawmaking, we take into account all components, including public opinion. There are critical areas in the Tax Reform Bill that directly impact Akwa Ibom State. Why should oil companies operate on our shores but pay taxes elsewhere? We will spare no effort to ensure that Akwa Ibom’s interests are safeguarded,” Sampson declared.
He further assured that Akwa Ibom’s three senators are united in their commitment to champion the state’s cause in the Senate.
The event, themed “Ethical Issues: AI and Digital Journalism in the 21st Century”, featured insightful discussions on the challenges and opportunities in the evolving media landscape.
Dr. Uduak Akpan, of the Communication and Media Studies Department at Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, delivered a keynote address on the intersection of artificial intelligence and journalism, emphasizing the ethical considerations necessary for the media’s adaptation to technological advancements.
Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Emmanuel Abraham, Chairman of Topfaith Group of Institutions, urged journalists to skillfully combine artificial intelligence with human intelligence for impactful reporting, underscoring the importance of ethical standards in the digital age.
Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ini Ememobong, lauded the Correspondents’ Chapel for their professionalism and significant contributions to governance.
He assured attendees of Governor Umo Eno’s recognition of their efforts, commending the dedication that went into producing The Critique.
Comrade Bassey Anthony, Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, highlighted the importance of the annual Chapel Week as a platform to train journalists tasked with reporting Akwa Ibom’s activities to the world.
He noted that the unveiling of the magazine was a testament to the hard work and commitment of chapel members.
