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

Through this Digital Media, Misinformation and Ethical Reporting project, 60 final year journalism students from rural communities in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria will be empowered with the necessary skills to excel in the evolving media landscape and make great impact in their communities. The training and mentorships will increase participants’ digital media literacy, ensure they are proficient in using digital media tools for journalism practices, and can apply AI concepts in journalistic tasks such as social media management, content creation, data analysis, automated content generation, and fact-checking.  After the training, participants will have an understanding of ethical reporting principles, accuracy, fairness, misinformation, and sensitivity to cultural contexts, and be able to apply their journalistic skills to address local issues.

“[This project aspires] to [empower] young journalists with the skills and tools, not only to navigate the information age, but to wield the power to shape truth amid the sea of misinformation.”-  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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