The Abia State chapter of the Online Media Practitioners of Nigeria (OMPAN) has made history with the unveiling of its brand new secretariat, located at No. 53 Eket Street, by Enugu Road, Umuahia on Monday 5th August 2024.
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, who was the special guest at the event, expressed his pride in the association’s unity and progress. He emphasized the crucial role of the media in shaping public discourse, informing citizens, and holding those in power accountable.
Kalu urged the association to uphold the highest standards of journalistic integrity, resist the temptation to prioritize sensationalism over substance, and embrace data-driven journalism. He also encouraged them to use their platform to promote patriotism, educate citizens, and contribute to the nation’s development.
Chairman of the association, Chief Promise Uzoma Okoro,anipr in his welcome address thanked Kalu for his efforts in ensuring the signing of the South East Development Commission bill into law. Members of the association expressed their gratitude and commitment to responsible journalism.
“First let me congratulate you Rt Hon Deputy Speaker on behalf of the members of the Online Media Practitioners Association in Abia State for your Pragmatism, dexterity and ebullience that saw to the smooth signing of the South East Development Commission Bill into law by President Bola Tinubu”
“We don’t take it for granted that you found time to honour us with your presence,to unveil this our State Secretariat after 9Years in existence as a Union, History has been made today and we don’t take it for granted “
Mr. Ifeanyi Okali, the National Editor-In-Chief of OMPAN and the Director of ABN TV/Radio praised Kalu for his media-friendly approach, stating that he is always open to conversations and has made significant contributions to the growth of the association.
“Benjamin Kalu has been a strong supporter of OMPAN Abia chapter, and his efforts have helped to elevate the chapter’s reputation within the association,” he said.
Dignitaries present at the event included South East Representative at the North East Development Commission Hon. Sam Onuigbo, Former Speakers of the Abia State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Martins Azubuike and Rt Hon Stanley Ohajura, Former Executive Chairman of Bende Local Government AreaHon. Emmanuel Onwuchekwa, a Former Commissioner in ASOPADEC Hon Orji Udeagha , Abia State Director of SSS who was ably represented, Abia State Commissioner of Police who was ably represented by the Police PPRO Asp Maureen Chinaka,among others.
The unveiling of the new secretariat marks a significant milestone for OMPAN Abia State chapter, symbolizing their collective commitment to responsible journalism and serving as a hub for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and professional development.
