Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River on Sunday, pledged his support in advancing truth, and accountability, through ethical journalism.
The governor made the pledge while congratulating the newly elected executives of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) led by Mr Eze Anaba at its biennial national convention, held in Enugu on Friday.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Linus Obogo, Otu described Anaba’s victory as a glowing testament to his integrity, inclusive leadership and commitment to the ideals of credible journalism.
Obogo, who is also Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the governor quoted him as saying, “the composition of the new executive, reflects a healthy blend of experience and innovation.
“It is a reassuring signal that the future of editorial leadership in Nigeria remains in capable hands.”
He commended the outgoing officers, including Dr Iyobosa Uwugiaren and Mr Steve Nwosu, for their years of dedicated service, that helped to reposition the Guild as a bastion of press freedom and professional excellence.
Otu praised the peaceful and transparent conduct of the elections, and described it as a model worthy of emulation by other professional bodies and political institutions, adding that the new executive reflects a healthy blend of experience and innovation.
“It is a reassuring signal that the future of editorial leadership in Nigeria remains in capable hands.” he said
Reaffirming his administration’s belief in a free, responsible, and development-driven press, Otu assured that in Cross River, the media is seen as a critical partner in governance rather than as an adversary.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the guild also elected Sabastine Abu as Deputy President while Alabi Kabir, Sheddy Ozonne and Hamza Idris, were elected unopposed as Vice-President West, East and North respectively.
Others elected officers include: Onuoha Ukeh as Secretary, Gabriel Akinadewo, Assistant Secretary; Iyobosa Uwugiaren, Treasurer and Charles Kalu, Publicity Secretary.
Meanwhile, the guild also elected Standing Committee members for West, East and North.
