The Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Newspapers Distribution Association, Obong Bright Ewoh, have described the Guide newspaper as an outstanding and unique brand that has not only contributed to the growth of the media industry in the state but has evolved over the years to become a major employer of labour in the industry.
Obong Ewoh stated this while speaking as Guest of Honour at a special business partnership forum and dinner held in honour of all major newspaper distributors and vendors in Akwa Ibom State by the Chief Executive Officer and Publisher of the Guide newspaper, Prince Emmanuel Sam on Saturday in Uyo.
According to Obong Ewoh, the forum which he described as the first of its kind by any Publisher in the state, was a veritable platform to interface between the publisher and the newspaper distributors, noting with delight that the partnership will go a long way in fostering a harmonious and mutually beneficial business relationship between the association and the Guide newspaper.
He commended Prince Sam for the initiative, submitting that not even a state owned newspaper have ever hosted the association, stating that the last time they were ever hosted by any Publisher in Uyo was decades ago by the late MKO Abiola and advocated for better synergy and collaboration between the Guide newspaper, newspaper publishers in the state and the association.
The Chairman said they were overwhelmed with joy at the recognition given to them by the Guide newspaper as distributors and vendors play a key role in the value chain of the newspaper and publishing industry, pledging the readiness of the group to help promote and enhance circulation of the newspaper in the state.
Addressing the forum, the CEO/Publisher of the Guide newspaper, Prince Emmanuel Sam said he decided to call all newspaper distributors and vendors in Akwa Ibom state together to appreciate them for their significant role in the promotion and sale of the Guide newspaper, especially during the most trying moment of the company when publishing or circulating the Guide newspaper was a risk to both staff of the company, distributors and vendors.
He explained that the association plays a key role in the success of any Publisher and newspaper outfit as no newspaper can survive and become sustainable without the support and solidarity of newspaper distributors and vendors in the state.
He thanked the group for their support, solidarity and encouragement and promised to continue to partner the association in view of their strategic role in the growth and development of the print media industry in Akwa Ibom.
Prince Sam promised to assist the association in the establishment of kiosks and newspaper stands in strategic junctions within Uyo metropolis and major towns and cities in the state where there are none, pledging to always support members improve on their business environment towards enhancing their income.
The association offered prayers to the Guide publisher, asking for God’s blessings upon him, his family, staff and company.
Highpoint of the dinner and business forum which had over 100 newspaper distributors and vendors in attendance was the distribution of customised Guide newspaper umbrella to all members of the association to assist in cushioning the impact of the rainy season in their business.
