The Cross River State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to press freedom and media development as stakeholders gathered to mark the World Press Freedom Day 2026 in Calabar.
Speaking during a journalists’ hangout organised to commemorate the event on Sunday, the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, commended media professionals for their dedication to truth and nation-building.
Ekpang described Cross River as one of the safest and most peaceful states in Nigeria, attributing the achievement partly to responsible journalism and constructive media engagement.
“You have been doing a very good job. Everything we say or do as a government is often guided by positive intentions, and your role in telling the real story remains critical,” he said.
He urged journalists to remain committed to factual reporting, encouraging them to “tell the story as it is,” while upholding ethical standards and professionalism in their work.
The commissioner also credited the media for the numerous recognitions received by Governor Bassey Otu, noting that consistent reportage had contributed to awards such as Man of the Year honours from notable media organisations.
Highlighting the global significance of the event, Ekpang referenced the UNESCO declaration, which underscores the role of independent journalism in promoting human rights, peace, and sustainable development.
According to him, the 2026 theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace,” reflects the vital responsibility of the press in fostering a society built on truth, justice, and harmony.
“Journalists are the guardians of democracy, the voice of the voiceless, and the bridge between citizens and leadership. Your work continues to inspire hope and strengthen democratic values,” he added.
Ekpang further assured media practitioners of the government’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for journalism to thrive, pledging continued support for the Nigeria Union of Journalists and its activities.
In her remarks, the Chairman of the NUJ Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey, emphasised the importance of press freedom as a cornerstone of democracy and human rights.
Bassey reaffirmed the critical role of a free, independent, and responsible press in promoting democracy, protecting human rights, and driving national development.
She noted that journalism remains a vital instrument for fostering peace, strengthening democratic institutions, and ensuring accountability, particularly within a complex and evolving security landscape.
“As we mark this year’s World Press Freedom Week, we must continue to amplify our voices in defence of free expression. Any attack on journalists is a violation of fundamental human rights,” she said.
Bassey, however, noted that the gathering was also an opportunity for journalists to relax and celebrate their resilience, adding, “This is our own moment to unwind and appreciate ourselves despite the demands of our profession.”
Also speaking, the Head of Department, Journalism and Media Studies, University of Calabar, Dr. Kwita Dan-Obo, called for stronger collaboration between academia and practicing journalists to groom future professionals.
She stressed the need to uphold truth and accountability, noting that journalism remains a powerful tool for societal transformation and democratic governance.
In their goodwill messages, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Affairs, Nsa Gill, and General Manager of the Cross River Broadcasting Corporation, Mr Sam Nsor, urged media organisations to improvise and adapt to artificial intelligence rather than adopt the new technology wholesale.
They said media houses on the continent, faced with limited resources, burdensome regulation, and weak institutions, cannot simply copy approaches used in richer markets.
“Look at your environment, assess what is available to you, and have the flexibility of thought to adapt and improvise. Adapt rather than adopt. Improvisation and adaptation, not wholesale adoption, is the critical key,” they said.
Other stakeholders who delivered goodwill messages included the National Youth Council of Nigeria President in Cross River State, Emmanuel Olayi; the Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Eitokpah; and the Director of Good Governance Advocacy, Sir Leonard Ayogo, all of whom emphasised the need to sustain press freedom and responsible journalism in the state.
