South-South NUJ Leaders Urge Journalists To Prioritise Health After Secretary Survives Two Strokes

CROSS RIVER, CALABAR – Senior leaders of the South-South Zone of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) have urged journalists to pay greater attention to their health through regular medical check-ups, healthy living and prompt medical intervention following the recovery of the Cross River State Council Secretary, Comrade Mike Abang, who survived two strokes within a short period.

The call came on Friday when a three-member delegation led by the Vice President of NUJ Zone F (South-South), Comrade Opaka Dokubo, visited the recovering union secretary at his residence in Calabar to offer prayers, encouragement and reaffirm the union’s support during his rehabilitation.

Dokubo said the zonal leadership had remained concerned about Abang’s health despite being unable to visit earlier because of official engagements during a previous trip to Cross River State.

“Even after we left, our thoughts and our prayers didn’t leave you. We see you as one of us, and we value you,” Dokubo said.

He described journalism as a profession built largely on sacrifice, noting that although the union may not always have the financial capacity to meet every need of its members, its leadership remains committed to standing by colleagues during difficult times.

The NUJ zonal vice president expressed gratitude over Abang’s steady recovery, observing that many stroke patients either do not survive or suffer permanent disabilities.

“Now we can see you, talk with you, and God has helped you through the worst. A lot of people went through this path and didn’t survive it. Your recovery is a testimony of God’s intervention,” he said.

Dokubo urged journalists not to neglect their health, stressing that routine medical examinations, adherence to prescribed medication and healthy lifestyles could significantly improve outcomes when serious illnesses occur.

Responding, the Cross River NUJ secretary thanked the zonal leadership for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of genuine brotherhood that strengthened his resolve to continue his recovery.

Abang disclosed that he survived two strokes within a short period, describing his survival as an act of divine grace.

He said his condition had improved considerably through consistent medication, medical procedures and rehabilitation, expressing optimism that he would regain full strength.

The veteran journalist also appreciated journalists across the South-South zone and beyond for their prayers, encouragement and support throughout his health challenge.

The delegation comprised the NUJ Zone F Vice President, Comrade Opaka Dokubo; Zonal Trustee, Comrade Gabriel Ekaidem; and Chairman of the NUJ Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John.

They were received by the Chairman of the NUJ Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey, and the Council’s Assistant Secretary, Comrade Kingsley Agim, who joined the visit in solidarity with the recovering secretary.