The Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State Council, is set to host its annual Press Week, themed, “Blue Economy: Starting Steps for Rivers State,” with a focus on “Enhancing The Safety and Economic Wellbeing of Journalists in a Period of Tension and Economic Crisis.” The event kicks off on Monday, April 7, 2025, at the NBA Hall, opposite the City Council secretariat in Port Harcourt.
The week-long program aims to explore the potential of the Blue Economy for Rivers State, a sector that holds immense promise for economic diversification and growth. The theme reflects the urgent need for the state to harness its vast maritime resources to create new opportunities and stimulate sustainable development.
“We are particularly focused on the Blue Economy as a vital path for Rivers State to compete effectively in the Nigerian economic landscape,” stated Amaechi Okonkwo, Chairman of the Correspondents Chapel. “Our goal is to bring together key stakeholders to discuss concrete strategies for leveraging the Blue Economy to foster economic prosperity.”
The event will also address the pressing issue of journalist safety and welfare, especially in the face of challenging political and economic conditions. “Our journalists are at the forefront of informing the public, and their safety and well-being are paramount,” said Ignatius Chukwu, Organising Committee Chairman. “We are committed to ensuring that journalists can perform their duties without fear or intimidation.”
The Press Week program features a robust lineup of activities designed to foster dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. Key highlights include: Opening Ceremony: Prof Silva Opuala-Charles, President of the Garden City Premier Business School, Port Harcourt, will deliver the keynote address, while Dr Chinyere Nwoga, First Female President of the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines & Agriculture (PHCCIMA), will serve as the Special Guest.
Mr Ubong Essien, Dean of the School of Eloquence and former Special Assistant to the immediate past Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), who is the guest speaker, will shed light on the practical implications of the Blue Economy for Rivers State.
On Friday, April 11, 2025, a dinner party will provide an opportunity for networking and fostering camaraderie among the journalists and invited guests.
The programme will include a tour of key maritime infrastructure and facilities in Rivers State, allowing participants to gain firsthand insights into the state’s Blue Economy potential.
A special congress will be held to address key issues affecting the NUJ Correspondents Chapel and the broader journalistic landscape in Rivers State.
The event will culminate with a visit to an orphanage, showcasing the Chapel’s commitment to social responsibility and community engagement.
The organisers called for support, goodwill, and solidarity from all stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of a united front in promoting peace, economic development, and the well-being of journalists in Rivers State.
