At his first media briefing, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno has solicited the support of the Media to deliver transparent and accountable governance to the people of the State.

He also advocated for insurance cover for journalists given the plethora risks involved in the discharge of their duties.

Eno made this solicitation on Saturday, September 16, 2023, at his maiden media briefing since he assumed office as Governor of the State held at Government House, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Harping on the importance of the Media to the success of his administration, the Governor described journalists as “the hope of the public”, encouraging them to do their jobs properly and in line with the ethics of the profession in order to achieve the results necessary for the growth of the state.

He expressed his enthusiasm to work with the media to ensure that the masses are up to date with the activities of his administration.

“We must come together to build our state, than come out to destroy what we are trying to do. If we don’t give information to those who are supposed to help us propagate the gospel, then we can’t blame them for misinformation.”

The State Governor promised transparency and accountability from his administration, describing the Press as the fourth estate of the realm, he reiterated the importance of the role of journalists in ensuring that his government has a smooth ride and harped on the need to have the right conviction and to act on them.

“…a journalist should be able to hold his own and stand with his convictions. There is no ambiguity, you can ask questions so that you can write based on your convictions and not just because you are doing your job.”

Umo Eno emphasized the need to employ constructive criticism when criticizing the government explaining that the government is not all-knowing and is open to learn from the journalists as long as it is done the right way, constructively.

“In your suggestions and criticisms, as long as you are not abusing people, it is fine. We all have homes and we know that sometimes, we have challenges in managing our homes, not to talk of managing a diverse community like we have.”

“Different ethnic groups, different backgrounds and different orientations. So we understand that sometimes it is challenging, and sometimes people have to draw your attention to certain things.”

He reaffirmed his desire and readiness to work with the Press to ensure a smooth sail of his administration and implored journalists to take their jobs serious as they are essential for the success of his government.