Information Officers in Abia State have been encouraged to take the lead in telling the story of the New Abia by communicating government activities clearly, professionally, and truthfully.
This message was given during the closing ceremony of the 2026 Press Week organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Information Chapel.
Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Sir Chris Owuegbu, said Information Officers play an important role in government. He encouraged them to keep learning new communication skills and adjust to changes in the media industry.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, , said the New Abia represents the positive changes taking place across the state. He advised Information Officers to always give correct and balanced information instead of misleading the public to please anyone. He urged them to remain honest and dedicated in their work.
In his lecture titled “The New Abia: Governance and the Media Bridge,” Comrade Eze Samson, Station Manager of Flo FM Radio, described Information Officers as the link between the government, the media, and the people. He said they help promote openness, accountability, and public understanding.
He explained that the New Abia is more than a slogan. According to him, it is a long-term plan to transform the state. He urged Information Officers to work closely with journalists, provide accurate information on time, and tell the government’s story before others create their own version.
Comrade Samson also advised Information Officers to communicate clearly, build good relationships with media organisations, and respond quickly during emergencies with facts, compassion, and clear information. He encouraged them to make good use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve their work and public communication.
The Director General of the Abia State Strategic Communication Bureau, Barr. Onyebuchi Ememanka, who chaired the event, reminded Information Officers that they are responsible for protecting the image of the government. He urged them to be bold, remain professional, and continue telling the story of the New Abia without fear or intimidation.
Earlier, the Chairman of the NUJ Information Chapel, Comrade Chimdinma Enyinnaya, said the 2026 Press Week was organised to review the work of Information Officers, improve their professional skills, and celebrate journalists.
She said Information Officers are responsible for gathering and sharing government information, protecting the government’s image, and helping the government understand public opinion. She also mentioned some of the challenges they face, including a lack of working tools and welfare issues. She thanked for the ongoing development projects in the state and for appointing members of the Chapel to important positions in the civil service.
The event featured goodwill messages, award presentations, and recognition of outstanding public officers and Information Officers. Those honoured included , Chief Mrs. Victoria Dibumma Onwubiko, Ezihe Lydia Onuoha, Comrade Uma Ibem Oke, and Divine Nwankwo.
The programme was attended by representatives of several government ministries and agencies, members of the NUJ State Council led by Comrade Chidi Asonye, and many other invited guests.
In her vote of thanks, the Secretary of the NUJ Information Chapel, Comrade Christy Emezue, thanked everyone who supported the success of the 2026 Press Week. She assured that Information Officers would continue to carry out their duties with dedication and professionalism.
