The Akwa Ibom State Government has put smiles on the faces of journalists in the state. In fulfillment of its promise to the state council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the State Government donated 100 laptop computers for distribution to “lucky members” of the third tier of the realm operating in the state.

Handing over the laptops through the state chairman of the union, Elder Patrick Albert, at the Godswill Akpabio International Press Centre in Uyo at the weekend, the state Information and Communications Commissioner, Deacon Aniekan Umanah, stated that the gesture was “the benevolence of our purposeful and visionary leader, Chief (Dr.) Godswill Obot Akpabio (CON).”

“In addition to many benefits extended to us as a group, the Akpabio administration has today redeemed the pledge of 100 laptop computers. These are meant to equip you for better performance of your duties,” he remarked.

Dcn. Umanah recalled that he was sure “you still remember that only last week, we handed over 1,000 units of GOTV decoders to the union. Many of you have installed same in your homes or offices.”

He expressed his happiness that the Akpabio administration, apart from creating enabling environment for the practice of journalism, had carried members of the union along in the scheme of things in the state.

Responding, Elder Albert commended the commissioner for keeping the government’s promise and tasked journalists to uphold the ethics and norms of the profession by disseminating “true, credible and unbiased stories” on the government and its people.

•File photo shows Governor Akpabio fielding questions from journalists.