The Cross River State Government has reiterated its dedication to press freedom and the growth of the media sector as stakeholders convened in Calabar to commemorate the 2026 World Press Freedom Day.
At a journalists’ hangout held on Sunday to mark the occasion, the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, praised media practitioners for their commitment to truth and their role in national development.
He described Cross River as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful states, attributing this in part to responsible journalism and constructive engagement by the media.
According to him, government actions are driven by good intentions, while the media plays a vital role in accurately informing the public. He encouraged journalists to remain committed to factual and ethical reporting.
Ekpang also acknowledged the media’s contribution to the recognition received by Governor Bassey Otu, noting that consistent coverage has helped secure several awards, including “Man of the Year” honours from reputable organisations.
Referencing the global importance of the celebration, he highlighted the position of UNESCO on the role of independent journalism in advancing human rights, peace, and sustainable development. He noted that the 2026 theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace,” reflects the responsibility of the press in promoting truth, justice, and unity.
He further assured journalists of the government’s continued support, including efforts to create an enabling environment for the profession and sustained collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
In her remarks, the Chairman of the NUJ Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey, stressed that press freedom remains fundamental to democracy and human rights. She reaffirmed the importance of an independent and responsible media in ensuring accountability and national progress.
Bassey also pointed out that journalism plays a key role in promoting peace and strengthening democratic institutions, especially in a challenging security environment. She added that attacks on journalists amount to violations of fundamental rights.
She, however, noted that the event also provided an opportunity for media professionals to relax and celebrate their resilience despite the demands of their work.
Also speaking, Dr. Kwita Dan-Obo, Head of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies at the University of Calabar, called for closer collaboration between academic institutions and practicing journalists to better prepare future professionals.
In separate goodwill messages, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Affairs, Mr. Nsa Gill, and the General Manager of the Cross River Broadcasting Corporation (CRBC), Mr. Sam Nsor, urged media organisations to adopt a flexible approach to artificial intelligence.
They advised that, given local challenges such as limited resources and regulatory constraints, media outlets in Africa should adapt and innovate with technology rather than replicate models from more developed regions.
They emphasized that creativity, adaptability, and context-driven solutions are essential for the media to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
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