NUJ South-South Leaders Visit Ailing Cross River Secretary

In a show of solidarity and brotherhood, the South-South leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on Friday visited the recovering Secretary of the Cross River State Council of the Union, Comrade Mike Abang, at his residence in Calabar, assuring him of the union’s support as he continues his recovery from stroke.

The visit, led by the Vice President of NUJ Zone F (South-South), Comrade Opaka Dokubo, provided an opportunity for the zonal leadership to offer prayers, encouragement and words of support to the veteran journalist while commending the progress recorded in his recovery.

Speaking during the visit, Dokubo apologized for the leadership’s inability to visit earlier due to official engagements during their previous trip to the state, explaining that despite their physical absence, the entire zonal leadership had remained united in prayers and concern for their colleague.

“Even after we left, our thoughts and our prayers didn’t leave you. We see you as one of us, and we value you,” Dokubo said, assuring Abang that the union remained committed to standing with him during his health challenge.

He described service to the NUJ as largely sacrificial, noting that although the union may not always possess the financial strength to meet every need of its members, its leaders remain committed to supporting colleagues during difficult times.

Dokubo expressed gratitude to God for Abang’s recovery, observing that many stroke victims either do not survive or are left with severe disabilities.

“Now we can see you, talk with you, and God has helped you through the worst. A lot of people went through this path and didn’t survive it. Your recovery is a testimony of God’s intervention,” he said.

The NUJ Zone F Vice President also urged journalists to pay greater attention to their health through regular medical check-ups, adherence to prescribed medication and healthy lifestyles, stressing that early medical intervention remains critical in overcoming serious health challenges.

Responding, Comrade Mike Abang thanked the zonal leadership for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of genuine brotherhood that gave him a renewed sense of belonging within the union.

Abang recounted his difficult health journey over the past few months, revealing that he survived two strokes within a short period, which he described as a miracle of God’s grace.

He said he has continued to respond positively to treatment and rehabilitation, adding that his condition has improved considerably through consistent medication and medical procedures.

The recovering journalist appreciated journalists across the South-South zone and beyond for their prayers, encouragement and support throughout the period, expressing optimism about returning to full strength.

The three-man zonal delegation comprised the Vice President of NUJ Zone F (South-South), Comrade Opaka Dokubo, Zonal Trustee, Comrade Gabriel Ekaidem, and Chairman of the NUJ Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Naibiet John.

They were joined on the visit by the Chairman of the NUJ Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey, and the Council’s Assistant Secretary, Comrade Kingsley Agim.