In a deeply touching show of compassion and professional solidarity, the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Cross River State, Edem Darlington, on Friday, alongside members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists paid a heartfelt visit to an ailing journalist, Enya Enya Ndem, at his modest residence in Effiong Asi, Edimotop area of Calabar Municipality.
The visit was both emotional and symbolic, reflecting the enduring bond within the journalism profession and the power of compassion in difficult moments. Ndem, a correspondent with Ibom Nation Newspapers, is currently grappling with serious health challenges and difficult living conditions.
Moved by the situation of his former classmate, Darlington arrived with a gesture of support, presenting the ailing journalist with ₦50,000 in cash alongside essential food items including yams, garri, and bags of rice to help cushion his immediate needs.
Beyond the material support, the visit carried a powerful message of reassurance, that Ndem had not been forgotten by his colleagues and friends in the profession.
Visibly concerned after observing the condition of the residence, Darlington noted that the environment was hardly suitable for habitation and assured that efforts would be explored to help relocate the journalist to a more conducive living space.
Reflecting on their shared past, the Governor’s aide recalled their days as students alongside several notable journalists in the state, including the late Albert Andinam and the late Increase Abasi, as well as media professional Mary Akpet. According to him, those memories reinforced the need for colleagues to stand by one another in moments of difficulty.
“We just feel that we should be there for each other,” Darlington said warmly. “So you are never forgotten.”
Encouraging Ndem to remain hopeful, he urged him to stay strong and prayerful, noting that life’s difficult seasons often give way to better days.
Also speaking during the visit, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Cross River State Council, Archibong Bassey, commended Darlington for the gesture, describing it as a true demonstration of empathy, leadership, and professional brotherhood.
She called on members of the union to emulate such acts of kindness, stressing that the journalism profession thrives not only on reporting the stories of others but also on caring for its own.
“We felt it was important to come here personally to see you and let you know that you are not alone,” she said. “As colleagues and brothers in the profession, we must always look out for one another.”
Overwhelmed by the visit, Ndem struggled to contain his emotions as he expressed heartfelt appreciation to Darlington and the team of journalists who made the difficult journey to his residence.
“I feel very grateful from the bottom of my heart,” he said quietly. “I didn’t expect all of you to climb this place just to see me.”
With a touch of humour despite his condition, Ndem described the challenging terrain leading to his home as “the Gulf of Effiong Asi,” a metaphor that drew sympathetic smiles from the visitors who had navigated the difficult path to reach him.
He thanked the Governor’s aide and the NUJ members for their generosity and solidarity, offering prayers for God’s blessings upon them for remembering him in his moment of need.
The visit ended on a hopeful note, as colleagues reassured Ndem that he remains an important member of the journalism family and that collective efforts would continue toward improving his welfare and living conditions.
Kingsley Agim
