AKSG redeploys veteran journalist, Helen Udofa, to head information Directorate 

BY Aniebiet Udo 

UYO — The Akwa Ibom State Government has redeployed Helen Udofa, a veteran journalist, to head the Information Directorate of the Ministry of Information, following the retirement of the former Director, Mr Aniekan Ukpong. 

The redeployment, announced in a statement by the Ministry of Information on Thursday, said Udofa, who was a senior staff of the Akwa Ibom State Newspaper Corporation, is expected to strengthen the state’s information management and public communication machinery.

Udofa, a highly respected media professional with decades of experience in journalism and public communication, made history at the state government-owned The Pioneer newspaper as the first female editor (Daily) and head of the editorial department, where she distinguished herself through professionalism and editorial excellence.

Her career has also seen her occupy several leadership positions within the journalism profession. She served as Treasurer of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, and later as National Secretary of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ).

A holder of a postgraduate degree in mass communication, Udofa is a member of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), African Women in the Media (AWiM), and the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ).

Reacting to the appointment, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, described the redeployment as a well-deserved recognition of Udofa’s outstanding contributions to journalism and public service.

In a statement dated July 23, 2026, and signed by the State Secretary of the Council, Comrade Nsikak Esenowo, the Union, under the leadership of Comrade Nsibiet John, said the appointment was “a fitting recognition of Comrade Udofa’s remarkable career, sterling professionalism, and unwavering commitment to journalism and public service.”

The Union noted that Udofa’s extensive experience in news gathering, editing, media management and public communication makes her eminently qualified for the strategic role.

NUJ expressed confidence that she would justify the confidence reposed in her by the Akwa Ibom State Government and urged her to uphold the highest standards of ethical journalism in the discharge of her new responsibilities.

The NUJ also wished the newly appointed director wisdom, sound health and outstanding success as she assumes office.

Speaking on the redeployment, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Akparawa James Edet, said the government relied on Udofa’s proven track record, wealth of experience and professional competence to strengthen information management and enhance effective public communication across the state.