Ukorebi Esien | July 21, 2025
CALABAR - The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey, has been honoured with a Professional Fellowship by the Research Gateway Professional Institute, a prestigious recognition for her outstanding contributions to journalism and public service.
The investiture ceremony, held at the Ernest Bassey Press Centre in Calabar, brought together dignitaries from the media, academia, and civil society to witness the conferment of the internationally recognized honour.
In his remarks, the Registrar of the Institute, Prof. Bassey Oben, described Bassey as a trailblazer and a woman of exceptional integrity, leadership, and resilience. He revealed that her nomination received unanimous approval from the board of the institute due to her meritorious service and influence beyond the newsroom.
"When your name came up, the board agreed without hesitation," Oben stated. "This honour is in recognition of your dedication, professionalism, and the impact you've made not just in journalism but in the larger society."
Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Research Gateway Professional Institute is an internationally accredited academic and vocational body operating from Cross River State. The institute specializes in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and offers certifications in various vocational, entrepreneurial, and technical fields in collaboration with a consortium of 12 global universities.
According to Prof. Oben, the institute has trained over 3,500 individuals in just five years, with a strong focus on youth, women, and vulnerable populations. Its certification programmes, including in Health, Safety and Environment (HSE), geriatric care, and corporate mediation, are globally verifiable through digital barcodes.
The highlight of the event was the formal oath-taking by Bassey, who solemnly pledged to uphold the values of integrity, objectivity, and ethical conduct in all professional engagements. She was thereafter robed and inducted as a Fellow of the Institute by the Registrar.
In an emotional acceptance speech, Bassey reflected on her professional journey, expressing gratitude for the recognition.
"Sometimes it feels like no one is watching or appreciating your effort, but today proves otherwise," she said, her voice filled with emotion. "This recognition brings tears to my eyes. It reminds me and others that if we keep our candles burning, eventually the world will notice the light."
Bassey, who recently featured on the 2025 list of 100 Women Making Change in Nigeria, also encouraged young journalists and aspiring female leaders to stay committed to their purpose.
"Let your passion speak louder than the challenges. Recognition will come, even when it feels delayed," she added.
With this induction, Comrade Archibong Bassey joins a growing list of professionals who are leveraging their platforms for societal transformation and youth development through academic and vocational excellence.
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