Press freedom day: Akwa Ibom NUJ Chairman Nsibiet John preach professionalism, ethical media practice.

By Our Reporter

The Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, has called on media practitioners to uphold professionalism and promote peace through responsible journalism.

He made this appeal during activities marking World Press Freedom Day 2026 in the state, where he warned that untrained journalists pose a serious risk to societal stability.

John described journalists as key players in shaping public opinion and fostering unity, stressing that only well-trained professionals can effectively contribute to peacebuilding. He expressed concern over the growing number of unqualified individuals in the media space, noting that their activities undermine the credibility of the profession and weaken public trust.

“A poorly trained journalist can do more harm than good,” he said, urging individuals, organizations, and government institutions to engage only certified media practitioners.

The NUJ chairman also emphasized the importance of ethical, conflict-sensitive reporting, noting that responsible journalism is vital in reducing tensions and encouraging peaceful coexistence.

He further criticized the increasing practice of assigning media roles to unqualified individuals, stating that it often leads to poor-quality output and unfairly damages the reputation of trained journalists.

“When professionals are engaged, quality is assured. But when anyone is picked to do the job, the result is substandard, and journalists are wrongly blamed,” he added.

In his lecture, Professor Iniobong Umotong of Akwa Ibom State University spoke on the theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace: The Critical Role of Journalism in Promoting Peace and Resolving Conflicts in Akwa Ibom State.” He highlighted the media’s role as a powerful tool for dialogue, conflict resolution, and sustainable development.

He urged journalists to remain committed to accuracy, fairness, and responsibility in their reporting.

The event attracted journalists, academics, and other stakeholders, all of whom reaffirmed the need for a free, responsible, and professional press as a foundation for peace and development.