Ashie Osor Emerges NUJ Financial Secretary in Cross River

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, has approved the nomination of Chief Ashie Osor of the Nigerian Chronicles Newspaper as its new Financial Secretary, following a duly conducted bye-election process.

The decision was ratified during the Union’s December 2025 Congress, held in Calabar and presided over by the Vice Chairman of the Council, Comrade Sunny Inah.

The appointment fills a vacant position within the NUJ State Executive, a move members say is critical to ensuring administrative continuity and effective financial management of the Union as it prepares for the new year.

A communique issued at the end of the Congress confirmed that the nomination was carried out strictly in line with the NUJ Constitution. According to the document, the process followed “the provisions of the Union Constitution for a bye-election to fill a vacant position in the Council leadership,” underscoring the Union’s commitment to internal democracy and due process.

Chief Osor, a seasoned journalist, is currently the Government House Correspondent of the Nigerian Chronicles. He brings years of experience in unionism and newsroom leadership to his new role. Prior to his elevation to the State Council, he served as Secretary of the NUJ Chronicle Chapel, where he was widely regarded for his administrative discipline and dedication to the welfare of members.

Colleagues at the Congress described his emergence as well-deserved, noting his consistency in union activities and his understanding of both the professional and financial responsibilities required of the office. His appointment is expected to strengthen transparency and accountability within the NUJ’s financial operations in Cross River State.

Beyond the election, the Congress also deliberated on a range of issues affecting journalists and the wider Cross River community. Members used the platform to commend the Cross River State Government for ongoing infrastructure development, particularly the urban renewal and beautification programme in Calabar.

In the communique, the Union expressed appreciation to Governor Bassey Otu for the upgrading and resurfacing of major roads within the state capital, especially along the Carnival routes. According to the NUJ, these projects have improved the city’s outlook and provided residents with “reason to celebrate the yuletide,” while also enhancing safety and mobility during the festive season.

The Congress also raised concerns about security, calling on law enforcement and other security agencies to intensify their efforts during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. While commending the existing synergy among security outfits, the Union urged them to step up surveillance and operations “within and outside the state capital to nip in the bud miscreant attacks and activities,” particularly during the busy festive period.

Housing and tenancy issues also featured prominently in the deliberations. The NUJ appealed to the state government to move swiftly in regulating the activities of property agents, many of whom were accused of engaging in extortion and other practices that violate tenants’ rights. The Union called for the speedy implementation of policies aimed at curbing such abuses.

On power supply, the Congress made a direct appeal to the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED), urging the company to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply throughout the yuletide season. Members noted that stable power is essential not only for households but also for media organisations that rely heavily on electricity to operate effectively.

The Congress ended with a call for unity among journalists in the state and a renewed commitment to professionalism, ethical reporting and the protection of members’ welfare, as the NUJ positions itself for the challenges and opportunities of the coming year.

Story Written By Kelvin Obambon