Cross River NUJ Gets First Female Chairperson
Archibonganwan Eso, a seasoned broadcast journalist at the Nigerian Television Authority in Calabar, has secured her place in history by becoming the first female chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council.
Eso’s election comes in the wake of the former chairman, Comrade Nsa Gill, being appointed as the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Cross River State.
Having previously served as the council’s financial secretary for six years, Eso expressed deep gratitude to the Union for bestowing upon all the new EXCO the responsibility of leadership.
Comrade Eso, said, “On behave of all of us here today I wish to express my deep gratitude to the Union for finding me and by extension all of us here worthy, and for bestowing upon us the responsibility of leadership”
She made a solemn pledge not to let the Union down, she said, “I pledge to work diligently towards advancing the interests of our colleagues, and to maintain the integrity and to protect the image of our noble profession in the state” she promised.
The election transpired during a Special Congress convened at the Ernest Etim Bassey Press Center in Calabar recently, overseen by National officers from Zone ‘F’.
In related appointments, Comrade Sunny Inah of CRBC Chapel was elected as the new Vice Chairman, while Comrade Mike Abang from the Correspondent Chapel representing BusinessDay newspaper was elected the new Secretary of the Union, Comrade Ekong Okpa from the Chronicle Chapel were chosen as Financial Secretaries of the council.
Zone “F” South-South Zonal Vice President, Comrade Okpaka Dokubo, stressed the importance of unity and the cultivation of a disciplined and cohesive union that is devoid of strife and division.
South-South VP said, “You must grow together in unity, try at times to cultivate spirit of discipline, inculcate accountability among you, imbibe transparency in your conduct, and leave no Union member behind, this is the only way you can succeed as you form a cohesive Union that is devoid of strife and division”
Former council chairman Comrade Gill Nsa, now serving as the Chief Press Secretary, advised the new chairperson to lead by example.
He said, “You must lead by example and ensure inclusivity among all members”
He also urged the other executive council members to, see their roles as opportunities to forge new connections.
“See your new roles as an outstanding opportunities to forge new connections, always strive to be acountable to those you serve” CPS advised.
Eso’s landmark election has been hailed as a historic moment by union member Comrade Joseph Ephraim, who rejoiced and called for jubilation over this significant milestone. Comrade Ephraim, representing the Nigeria Tribune, praised the fair conduct of the election and pledged full cooperation with the new leadership of the Union.
“As a member of this esteemed Union, our expectations are high,” said Comrade Mike Akpang of the Radio Nigeria Correspondent Chapel. “The primary duty of the newly elected EXCO should be to champion the interests of journalists in the state, uphold press freedom, and ensure the welfare and professional growth of members. The Union also carries the vital responsibility of reporting on and holding the government accountable for its actions and decisions in the state.”
“With Eso’s election as the first female chairperson, there is anticipation of increased efforts to advance gender equality and inclusivity within the Union, and it is incumbent upon us as members to extend our support to our EXCO for success.”
“We must actively strive to enhance the media landscape in our society, which plays a critical role in informing the public, shaping public opinion, and ensuring the voices of the people are heard with their concerns addressed,” added Comrade Mike Akpang.
The newly elected leadership will preside over the state council until April 2025.
