FOI: Akpabio Tasks Journalists On National Security

[naijababe]

Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State has advised journalists in Nigeria to take into consideration patriotism and national security in the practice of the Freedom of Information Act (FoI).

Speaking when he hosted members of the national executive of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) led by the President, Malam Mohammed Garba, Chief Akpabio said as desirable as the FoI Act was, journalists needed to be patriotic and be conscious of national security in practicing the act to safeguard the country's unity and security.

The Governor, who was represented by his deputy, Mr. Nsima Ekere, said his government has since inception partnered with the media for the progress and development of the state.

He disclosed that he has recently approved the release of funds for the acquisition of a state-of-the-art printing press for the Akwa Ibom Newspapers Corporation (AKNC) while his government has provided a brand new studio for the Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation - Television (AKBC-TV) and a transmitter for the radio service.

Chief Akpabio commended the NUJ for insisting on professionalism and ethics in the journalism profession and for acknowledging the achievements of his administration.

He noted with satisfaction that he has transformed the state in the last four years and made it a destination.

The NUJ President, Malam Garba, lauded the Governor on his projects and programmes which, according to him, have benefitted not only the people of the state but also those from outside the state.

He stated that Chief Akpabio has shown that he has a vision for even generations unborn and reasoned that Nigeria would be better off if she had more of such visionary leaders.

Describing Chief Akpabio as a media-friendly Governor, Malam Garba hailed the cordial relationship existing between the government and the media in the state.

He, however, restated the call of the union for a bail-out fund for the media in the country in the light of the harsh economic situation.

Attribution: Compass, DailyTrust, Guardian & NewsWatch.