Aniekeme Ukpong is a distinguished Nigerian broadcast journalist, professional speaker, and public servant. Currently, he serves as Special Assistant to the Akwa Ibom State Government on Social Reorientation. He previously served for eight years as Special Assistant to the Akwa Ibom State Government on New Media. As a seasoned media and communications professional, Aniekeme has served as newspaper columnist, radio on-air personality, programs manager, sports editor, professional speaker, business coach, brand ambassador and advisor to top CEOs and governments across Nigeria.

IVLP Impact Award Project: The Next Generation Journalists: Amplifying Voices, Shaping the Future

Aniekeme’ s project empowered 60 final-year journalism students from rural communities in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, with skills necessary to excel in the media landscape, become leaders in media and communication, and positively influence their communities.  

Training and mentorship sessions enhanced participants’ digital media literacy, proficiency in digital media tools, and application of AI in tasks like social media management, content creation, data analysis, automated content generation, and fact-checking. The project emphasized ethical journalism, teaching accuracy, fairness, and the dangers of misinformation. Participants gained a deep understanding of ethical reporting principles. 

Many participants produced impactful journalistic pieces on underreported local issues such as healthcare and education. The project significantly influenced the local media landscape by nurturing skilled graduates. 

“By enhancing the communication skills of final year journalism students, the project has improved awareness campaigns and media engagement, indirectly supporting the local media industry by nurturing skilled graduates and addressing skill gaps.” -  Aniekeme Ukpong

IVLP Exchange Experience  

Aniekeme participated in the IVLP project Edward R. Murrow Program for Journalists – New and Traditional Broadcast Media II organized by the U.S. Department of State and the Institute for International Education, in partnership with the Boulder Council for International Visitors, International House, International Visitors Council, Inc., World Boston, World Partnerships, Inc., and the New York Program Branch.

Aniekeme’s exchange experience led to the development of his project: “Listening to Mr. Al Tompkins speak at Poynter Institute in Florida, I was inspired to share fresh knowledge with the next generation on new tools and applications that have altered the practice of journalism globally. I am honored to lend my voice to stamp out misinformation and empower new journalists for the task ahead.”

U.S. Communities Visited   

Boulder, CO; Denver, CO; Washington, DC; Tampa, FL; New York City, NY; Columbus, OH

Country: Nigeria

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