Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has initiated a significant move toward modernizing the state’s information and communication infrastructure by signing a landmark agreement with Media Guru Consultant, LLC, Dubai, for the comprehensive transformation of the Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation (AKBC).
This strategic decision is a direct fulfillment of his campaign promise to reposition the state-owned media for global competitiveness and marks a new era for public broadcasting in the region.
The agreement with the Dubai-based firm is designed to elevate AKBC to world-class broadcasting standard with a comprehensive scope of the project covering consultancy for best practices and modern media operations; design of a state-of-the-art broadcasting studio and infrastructure; procurement of cutting-edge broadcast equipment; and installation and system integration.
This integrated approach aims not just to replace old equipment but to establish an entirely new ecosystem that allows AKBC to compete favourably with top international broadcasting networks.
The Governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, at the signing ceremony, expressed optimism that the project will enable AKBC to “project our people, our stories, and our vision to the world with pride and professionalism.”
The commitment to transforming AKBC goes beyond mere technological upgrade; it is a foundational investment in the mechanism of governance and the sustainability of democracy. A robust and functional public broadcasting station is of paramount importance in the administration for several reasons:
1. Relay of the Dividends of Democracy
A high-quality, widely accessible broadcasting platform like AKBC is the most effective medium for the government to communicate its policies, projects, and achievements directly to the citizens, particularly those in rural and underserved areas. It serves as a transparent window into the administration’s activities, ensuring that the dividends of democracy—ranging from infrastructure development and social welfare programs to economic empowerment initiatives—are documented and relayed accurately and professionally to the intended beneficiaries.
2. Fostering a Public Sphere and Citizen Participation
In a democratic setting, the media acts as a critical pillar and a public sphere. A modernized AKBC can provide a platform for open discussion and debate on public issues, allowing citizens to participate in the political process, offer feedback, and hold the government accountable. This two-way communication enhances public trust and fosters a more inclusive and participatory governance model.
3. Information, Education, and Cultural Projection
A world-class station will not only broadcast news but also produce high-quality educational and cultural content. It will serve as a powerful tool to:
1. Disseminate verified information, combating the rise of fake news and misinformation.
2. Educate the populace on health, civic responsibilities, and emerging opportunities; and
3. Project the unique people, rich culture, and history of Akwa Ibom State to a global audience, boosting tourism and attracting investment.
By setting the foundation for AKBC to become a world-class broadcaster, Governor Eno is essentially fortifying the state’s information architecture, ensuring that the voice of Akwa Ibom resonates with professionalism and clarity both at home and across the globe.
Patrick Edeke ANIPR is a Journalist and a Public Relations expert who writes from Akai-Atti Udesi in Mbo LGA of A’Ibom State