NUJ welcomes new COOPA EXCO, calls for collaboration between traditional, digital reporters
• NUJ Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Amos Etuk (R) with the new Chancellor of COOPA, Mr Utitofon Morgan Ukpong, shortly after the meeting on Wednesday
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, on Wednesday, played host to the new leadership of the Conference of Online Publishers in Akwa Ibom State (COOPA).
Chancellor of COOPA, Mr. Utitofon Morgan Ukpong, led the COOPA executive to the NUJ secretariat in Uyo for the meeting.
Comrade Amos Etuk, Chairman of the Union, together with members of the State Working Commitee (SWC) of the Union, warmly congratulated COOPA on their successful 2023 Conference/Election held in Eket, recently.
In his address, Comrade Etuk acknowledged the growing influence of new media and expressed the Union’s eagerness to collaborate with online publishers.
The NUJ Chairman dismissed any rumours of a cold war between NUJ and online publishers in the state, as represented by COOPA, even as he emphasized the need for unity and synergy.
“There was a time when traditional media felt threatened by the rise of social media. However, at a Conference in Abeokuta four years ago, we decided to embrace the digital era and encouraged our members to establish a strong online presence.
“Today, I’m thrilled to see many NUJ members actively engaging on social media platforms and even running their own blogs. We cannot predict what the future holds, but we must adapt and make use of the opportunities presented by social media,” he stated.
Etuk assured COOPA of the Union’s support, emphasizing that they have never been rivals but rather partners in progress.
He highlighted the importance of training for COOPA members and commended the previous Chancellor, Comrade Ifreke Nseowo, for his outstanding leadership.
“The same support we gave to Comrade Ifreke Nseowo, we will give to you, and even stronger. We want you to succeed. Your responsibility is to expand COOPA’s reach beyond Lagos and Nigeria.
“Look towards West African hubs and collaborate with colleagues from other sub-regions to enhance your development. Wherever NUJ can offer support, we are always ready,” Etuk added.
The Chancellor of COOPA, Mr. Utitofon Ukpong, called for a cordial working relationship between NUJ and COOPA, particularly in the areas of capacity development and protection of members from intimidation or harassment.
Ukpong also requested the reinstatement of the ‘Online Publisher of the Year Award’ in the NUJ Press Week Awards to recognize the contributions of journalists registered with both organizations.
The meeting ended on a positive note, with prayers offered for the success of the new COOPA Executive, even as the atmosphere was one of camaraderie and a shared commitment to the growth and development of the journalism profession.
According to the online publishers, the NUJ and COOPA, following the meeting, have set the stage for a dynamic partnership that embraces both traditional and digital journalism.
