NUJ FCT Correspondents Chapel holds 3-day football tournament

The Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council has concluded plans to hold a 3-day football tournament between media practitioners, government organizations and security agencies in the FCT.

Comrade Jide Oyekunle, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Correspondents Chapel made the disclosure while addressing newsmen on Friday in Abuja.

According to Comrade Oyekunle, the tournament is scheduled to hold from Thursday 3rd through Saturday 5th of August 2023 at 10:00 am each day at the Area 10 Football Pitch by Old Parade Ground Abuja.

Comrade Oyekunle explained that the 3-day tournament is not tailored to make winning the overall aim but to boost and strengthen friendly relationships among the participating organizations in the interest of the country.

The NUJ FCT Correspondents Chapel Chairman disclosed the participating teams include the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Nigerian Police Force, Federal High Court, Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) and Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC ).

Others are the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), National Orientation Agency (NOA ), Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) and Nigeria Union of Journalists FCT Correspondents Chapel.

Oyekunle further disclosed that the climax of the tournament will witness the ceremonial presentation of the trophy and medals to the winning team on Saturday, August 5th by 10:00 am when the final match will be played.

Speaking further, Oyekunle stated that the event will attract dignitaries, captains of industries, government officials and football lovers and enthusiasts from all walks of life including the representatives from the Ministry of Sports and Youth Development.

“Sport does not have a language. Sport is an integral activity that unites people and has the power to change the world, irrespective of religious, ethnic and political background.

“In the course of carrying out our statutory responsibilities, we cross each other’s paths by commission or omission, which at times may have resulted in misunderstanding and bickering.

“There is a need to bridge the gap and align our interests. irrespective of our profession for the purpose of making the country a place where love and peace reign supreme.

“All the organizations taking part in this tournament should remember that we are all stakeholders in the Nigeria project and we are all working for the same purpose but in different ways. We should therefore relate to each other as partners in progress rather than as adversaries.

“A Nigeria that works is in the interest of every Nigerian, irrespective of vocation or occupation. Let us, therefore, use this tournament to inspire, forge friendships and build respect among ourselves,” Oyekunle said.

He urged governments at all levels to leverage sports, especially football to embark on a fence-mending mission across the country, with the view to heal the emotional and psychological wounds of Nigerians in the interest of peace, national unity and integration.

“We consider football as a unifying factor that speaks the language of everybody that can provide much-needed reconciliation and peace, particularly at this critical time,” he said.

Oyekunle encouraged participating organizations to exhibit true spirit of sportsmanship throughout the competition and ensure fair play and go for the ball but not the leg.

“We urge you to reflect on the objectives of the competition and work hard to ensure that the aim is not defeated because the Olympic game is not to win but to participate.

“For us at Nigeria Union of Journalists this tournament will also enhance our physical and mental alertness and wellbeing and we would play the tournament and win.

“From this maiden edition, we hope to make this tournament an annual event and also increase the number of participating organizations and ensure that it grows bigger and better every year.

“We appreciate all corporate organisations who have decided to sponsor and make the maiden edition of the tournament a huge success. We equally salute our colleagues for partnering with us to boost the publicity for the tournament,” he said.

Senator Ekong Sampson Advocates for Reinstatement of Constituent and Ten Bills Introduced at Senate Plenary

In the latest Senate session, Senator Ekong Sampson, the representative of Akwa Ibom South, took a stand on behalf of one of his constituents, Engr. Aniekan Paddy Ukpe, urging the Senate to intervene in his case. Engr. Ukpe, a Senior District Engineer at the Nigerian Railways Corporation, was allegedly terminated unlawfully on April 17, 2023. He claims that his dismissal was unjust and a result of his opposition to entrenched corruption within the corporation.

Senator Ekong Sampson presented the petition during the Senate’s plenary, where he also moved the motion for the adoption of the Vote of Proceedings from the previous day. The Senator drew the Senate’s attention to what he perceived as a potential violation of his constituent’s rights and requested permission to lay the petition for consideration, which was granted.

Moreover, during the same plenary session, a total of ten Bills received their first reading in the Red Chamber. These bills covered various topics, including repealing and enacting the Nigeria Maritime Zone Act, addressing the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act, focusing on the Environmental Impact Assessment Bill, and introducing the Development Planning and Project Continuity Bill, among others.

Additionally, a motion was deliberated during the plenary, advocating for the protection of local meter manufacturers in the ongoing National Mass Metering Programme of the Federal Government. This motion was sponsored by Senator Victor Umeh from Anambra Central.

The Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, presided over the session, which concluded with the Senate adjourning until Tuesday, July 25, 2023.

Nyaetok Calls for the Fourth Estate to Assume Leadership Role in Society

… You have the role of feeding your family and also have the role of being the conscience and the eye of the society. – Nyaetok

By Imaobong Umoekah

In a compelling plea, the governoship candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Arch. Ezekiel Nyaetok hosted newsmen at his country FG Novone Garden Estate in Uyo, yesterday 18/07/2023. Stating that, the Fourth Estate are the conscience and the eye of the society and importantly to step up its role in society, he emphasizes the crucial need for media organizations and journalists to lead the charge in upholding democratic principles and serving as the conscience of the people. Recognizing the immense power and responsibility vested in the Fourth Estate, Nyaetok advocates for a proactive approach in addressing societal challenges and shaping a better future.

Fostering Public Trust: He highlights the erosion of public trust in traditional institutions and emphasizes the role of the Fourth Estate in rebuilding this trust. By adhering to ethical standards, promoting transparency, and delivering accurate information, media organizations can become beacons of trustworthiness. Nyaetok urges journalists to prioritize credibility and unbiased reporting to regain the faith of the public.
Holding Power Accountable: The Fourth Estate’s primary responsibility is to serve as a check on those in power. He emphasizes the need for journalists to fearlessly investigate and expose corruption, malfeasance, and abuse of authority. By fulfilling their watchdog role effectively, the media can hold the powerful accountable and ensure they act in the best interest of the people.
Amplifying Marginalized Voices: He emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and urges the Fourth Estate to amplify the voices of marginalized communities. By actively seeking out and giving a platform to those whose voices are often unheard, the media can shed light on systemic inequalities, discrimination, and social issues. Nyaetok encourages journalists to engage in empathetic storytelling to foster empathy and drive positive change.
Nurturing Constructive Dialogue: Engaging in meaningful dialogue is essential for a healthy society. He calls upon the Fourth Estate to foster constructive conversations by providing platforms for dialogue and promoting respectful debate. By facilitating conversations on pressing issues and encouraging diverse perspectives, the media can bridge divides and facilitate a deeper understanding among individuals and communities.
Championing Social Change: He highlights the transformative power of the media in driving social change. By shedding light on injustices, advocating for human rights, and promoting positive initiatives, the Fourth Estate can inspire individuals and mobilize communities to address pressing social issues. He calls for media organizations to champion causes that contribute to a fairer and more equitable society.

In summary, the Governorship candidate for African Democratic Congress (ADC) impassioned plea serves as a call to action for the Fourth Estate to reclaim its position as a leader in society. Emphasizing the importance of trust, accountability, inclusivity, and constructive dialogue, Nyaetok urges journalists and media organizations to embrace their role as agents of change. By fulfilling their responsibilities with integrity and purpose, the Fourth Estate can play a pivotal role in shaping a society that is just, informed, and resilient.

GOVERNOR UMO ENO LEADS AKWA IBOM IN PRIORITIZING DEVELOPMENT

In a remarkable display of bipartisan collaboration, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, accompanied by Deputy Governor H.E. Distinguished Senator Akon Eyakenyi and other esteemed officials, extended a warm welcome to Senate President H.E. Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio (CON) on his first visit to the state since his election as the President of the Senate […]
GOVERNOR UMO ENO LEADS AKWA IBOM IN PRIORITIZING DEVELOPMENT

PLACING AKWA IBOM FIRST

Today in furtherance of His Excellency’s commitment to bipartisan collaboration, Governor Umo Eno, along with the Deputy Governor, H.E. Distinguished Senator Akon Eyakenyi, and other esteemed officials, warmly welcomed the Senate President, H.E., Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio (CON), on his inaugural visit to our state following his election as the President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Together, Akwa Ibom must forge ahead in unity to achieve shared developmental objectives in line with the ARISE Agenda.

This is the golden era, placing Akwa Ibom first.

goldenera

BANANA PORRIDGE (Oto Mboro)

Oto Mboro is a porridge made with grated or pureed unripe bananas and vegetables. Similar to Ikokore (water yam porridge) and plantain porridge. It is delicious and healthy, so much so that it is part of the food given to young maidens who are confined in the fattening rooms of the Ibibio and Efik tribes of […]
BANANA PORRIDGE (Oto Mboro)

GOVERNOR UMO ENO LEADS AKWA IBOM IN PRIORITIZING DEVELOPMENT

In a remarkable display of bipartisan collaboration, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, accompanied by Deputy Governor H.E. Distinguished Senator Akon Eyakenyi and other esteemed officials, extended a warm welcome to Senate President H.E. Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio (CON) on his first visit to the state since his election as the President of the Senate […]
GOVERNOR UMO ENO LEADS AKWA IBOM IN PRIORITIZING DEVELOPMENT

EKID

HISTORY of EKET NATIONCommon surnames include Odungide, Akanimo, Assam, Inwang, Essiet, Udoito, Edoho, Edohoeket, Etukudo, Ukpong, Abia, Ekpo, Ikott, Abasekong, Asamudo, Nyoho, Ekong, Ekanim, Udofa, Edem, Inyang, Itauma, Udosen, Usoro, Etti, Etteh (actually meaning father), Udofia, Ukoetuk, Uku, Abia and Nsien. Just like the remainder of West Africa, the family name normally is an indicator […]
EKID

May Your Path be Smooth – Etim Ekpo Paramount Ruler Prays for Umo Eno

In what appears to be a quote from one of the seven Irish Blessings, Paramount Ruler of Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, HRM Akuku (Prof.) Amanam A. Udo has prayed that the path of Pastor Umo Eno, gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State, be smooth.

The popular Irish blessings, which is reputed to be very potent reads, “may the path be smooth at your feet. May the wind blow lightly on your shoulders. May the sun shine warmly on your face. May the rains fall serenely in your fields.”

The traditional father offered the blessing when the PDP/Pastor Umo Eno and Akon Eyakenyi campaign team paid a courtesy visit on him at his palace in Ikot Ikpa, Eka Uruk Eshiet before proceeding to the stadium for the campaign rally.

The renowned academician who described Pastor Umo Eno as a forthright candidate said, “I have heard what my son, Pastor Umo Eno has said. This is the government party, I give him my blessings today and urge him to fulfill his promises to make Etim Ekpo better.”

He acknowledged that God is the giver of power and according to him, gives it to whoever He pleases, and prayed that God will grant victory to Pastor Eno to enable him continue with the development strides in the state.

Earlier in his presentation, Pastor Eno noted that the visit was to pay homage to the royal father saying, “we are here to pay homage to you that we are in your domain to hold a rally, not a campaign because Etim Ekpo is a PDP stronghold. I am here to assure Etim Ekpo people that the incoming government would favour the people of Etim Ekpo and through the leadership of Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem, we would give Etim Ekpo its due.”

While unveiling his development blueprint, Pastor Eno who was accompanied by his wife, Pastor (Mrs) Patience Eno, and the Deputy governorship candidate, Senator Akon Eyakenyi maintained that the next administration, under his watch, would focus majorly on rural development, adding that small and medium scale entrepreneures would be supported, and the youths trained in areas that would make them self- employed and independent.

According to him, “The core message of our campaign is on rural development. What the rural people need is not much, they need access to basic healthcare, good roads, schools to make life easier and better. I will leave no stone unturned to ensure the integration of our rural communities.”

Media Unit
15/02/2023

EKID

HISTORY of EKET NATIONCommon surnames include Odungide, Akanimo, Assam, Inwang, Essiet, Udoito, Edoho, Edohoeket, Etukudo, Ukpong, Abia, Ekpo, Ikott, Abasekong, Asamudo, Nyoho, Ekong, Ekanim, Udofa, Edem, Inyang, Itauma, Udosen, Usoro, Etti, Etteh (actually meaning father), Udofia, Ukoetuk, Uku, Abia and Nsien. Just like the remainder of West Africa, the family name normally is an indicator […]
EKID