Akwa Ibom NUJ names hall after former chairman Israel Umoh

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Akwa Ibom State has honored former chairman Israel Umoh by naming its conference hall after him. This recognition celebrates Umoh's substantial contributions to the union's infrastructural development.

The Israel Umoh Conference Hall was unveiled following the union's July Congress. Nsibiet John, the current NUJ chairman in Akwa Ibom, stated that Umoh deserved recognition for his selfless service and visionary leadership. John highlighted Umoh's role in completing the NUJ secretariat building and furnishing it during his term from 2004 to 2007. The facility was commissioned by then-Governor Victor Attah on November 21, 2006.

Furthermore, Umoh initiated the construction of a 2,000-seat NUJ Auditorium, building it up to the lintel level. This project was later completed and commissioned by Governor Umo Eno on August 1, 2025. John emphasized that honoring Umoh while he is alive demonstrates the union's commitment to celebrating excellence and rewarding impactful leadership.

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I didn’t see it coming. I was shocked because I didn’t expect it. You know I left the office 21 years ago.

Umoh, who served a single three-year term, expressed his surprise and deep gratitude for the honor. "I didn't see it coming," he told PREMIUM TIMES. "I was shocked because I didn’t expect it. You know I left the office 21 years ago." He found the recognition particularly meaningful because it came during his lifetime, stating, "This is a very remarkable thing that has been done by the Union for me while I’m alive. It would have been tragic if the Hall was named after me posthumously."

Reflecting on his legacy, Umoh also mentioned securing approval for a Journalists’ Village and establishing a cooperative society for union members before leaving office. He commended the current leadership for their foresight and urged them to continue strengthening the union.

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This is a very remarkable thing that has been done by the Union for me while I’m alive. It would have been tragic if the Hall was named after me posthumously.