The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has concluded plans to celebrate veteran journalist and Publisher of The Evangelist Newspaper, Comrade Solomon Okpo, as he marks his 70th birthday and over four decades of distinguished service to journalism.
The event is scheduled to hold on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at the NUJ Press Centre, where colleagues, friends, family members, associates and admirers will gather to honour a man widely respected for his commitment to ethical journalism, community development and nation-building.
As part of preparations for the celebration, members of the planning committee on Wednesday visited the office of the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, to formally invite him and seek his support for the event.
The delegation comprised Comrade Ernest Robert, Production Editor of Watchman Post Newspaper; Comrade Mabel Ekanem, Publisher of Dozier Newspaper and Secretary of the Unity Chapel; and Comrade Edifon Solomon, Chairman of the State Information Chapel of the NUJ, Akwa Ibom State Council.
Speaking during the visit, Elder Bassey described Comrade Okpo as a distinguished media professional whose dedication, balanced reportage and commitment to mentoring younger journalists have earned him admiration across the industry.
According to the Commissioner, society rewards diligence, integrity and selfless service, noting that Okpo’s life and career stand as proof that professionalism and commitment ultimately attract recognition and respect.
He commended the initiative to celebrate the veteran journalist, describing it as timely and well deserved, while pledging his support towards the success of the event.
Elder Bassey also urged journalists and professionals in other fields to emulate Okpo’s exemplary qualities of integrity, discipline, professionalism and service to humanity.
Speaking on behalf of the planning committee, Comrade Edifon Solomon said the celebration is intended not only to mark Okpo’s 70th birthday but also to recognise his more than 40 years of unwavering dedication to the journalism profession.
For over four decades, Solomon Okpo has remained a respected figure in Nigeria’s media landscape, earning a reputation for ethical journalism, advocacy and public service. Through The Evangelist Newspaper, he has consistently used journalism as a platform to promote accountability, amplify the voices of ordinary citizens and contribute meaningfully to public discourse.
His dedication to truth, fairness and responsible journalism has inspired generations of journalists and media practitioners, while his professionalism and excellence have earned him widespread respect within and beyond the media industry.
Beyond journalism, Okpo has played significant roles in community service and grassroots development. His passion for social progress and civic engagement has positively impacted many lives, establishing him as a respected elder statesman and advocate for positive change.
Among his numerous contributions to the profession, he served as Chairman of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN), Akwa Ibom State Chapter. He is also a stakeholder in the NUJ, Akwa Ibom State Council, a member of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law State Working Group, and a mentor to young journalists and industrial training students.
Through these platforms, he continues to share his wealth of experience and nurture the next generation of media professionals.
The June 18 celebration is expected to provide an opportunity for family, friends, colleagues and well-wishers to honour a journalist whose life and career exemplify service, integrity, professionalism and commitment to humanity.
