Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly ( AKHA ) Rt. Hon. (Elder) Udeme Otong, has assured that the 8th Assembly under his leadership will maintain a cordial working relationship with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council.

The Speaker made the pledge on Thursday, when he played host to the leadership of the NUJ at the Assembly Complex in Uyo.

Speaking during a courtesy visit, Rt. Hon. Otong, reiterated his commitment to bettering the welfare of members of the Assembly Press Corps through regular trainings and provision of necessary office space for Journalists covering the Assembly.

The Lawmaker further expressed confidence in the ability of his Press Secretary, Comrade Emmanuel Ebong to discharge the duties of his office creditably.

“I like to thank you for this visit. Your relationship with us has made it possible for people in different parts of the state to know what is going on here at the Assembly.”

“Since the appointment of Comrade Emmanuel Ebong as Press Secretary, we’ve seen remarkable changes. We are here to deliver the dividends of democracy to our people, so we will work together with the NUJ for the benefit of our people.”

“I’ve heard all your requests, especially regarding the office space. We have started doing something in that direction with the Clerk of the Assembly and we’ll ensure that the Press Corps has a conducive working environment”, he said.

Earlier, in his remarks, Chairman of the NUJ, Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Amos Etuk, thanked the Speaker for appointing a member of the Union, Comrade Emmanuel Ebong, as his Press Secretary.

He lauded members of the 8th Assembly for engaging in robust debates and ensuring responsive discharge of its oversight functions, explaining that the visit was to strengthen the synergy between the legislature and the media in the state.

The NUJ Chiarman particularly praised the Speaker and members of the 8th Assembly for taking necessary legislative action to draw government’s attention to the plight of the displaced Ntak Ikot Akpan indigenes in Essien Udim, affected by airstrike with a view of resettling the victims.

Etuk, promised that the NUJ will continue to support the House of Assembly to ensure it delivers on its core responsibilities.

Present during the visit were the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Kufreabasi Edidem (Itu), Chairman House Committee on Information, Hon. Jerry Otu (Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara), Hon. Emem Udom (Ukanafun), Prince Sampson Idiong (Oruk Anam), Hon. Lawrence Udoide (Ini), as well the Clerk of the House, Mrs. Nsikakabasi Orok.