Gov. Otu appoints NUJ FCT Ex-Officio, Ebriku Friday, as SSA on Data Analytics

Comrade Ebriku John Friday (JP), a prominent Ex-Officio member of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council, has been appointed as the Senior Special Assistant on Data Analytics to the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Edet Otu.

The appointment was confirmed through a formal letter signed by Professor Anthony Owan-Enoh, Secretary to the Cross River State Government.

Reacting to the appointment, NUJ FCT Council Chairperson, Comrade Grace Ike, described it as a deserving elevation for a journalist and mediapreneur who has remained deeply involved in media, youth advocacy, and public service over the years.

Expressing his gratitude, Comrade Friday thanked Governor Otu for entrusting him with the responsibility, assuring the people of Cross River that he will bring diligence, professionalism, and strategic value to the administration.

“I am honoured to serve and remain fully committed to contributing positively to Governor Otu’s vision and to the advancement of Cross River State,” he said.

He called on citizens, particularly the youth, to support the state government’s developmental strides, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and empowerment.

A native of Yala in Cross River State, Friday studied Economics at the University of Abuja and carved out an impressive media career, particularly at Leadership Newspaper, where he held various leadership roles including General Manager.

He is currently the publisher and editor of several digital media platforms such as TheLeaderNG.com, Jabbama.ng, and DailyPatriot.ng, under eHub Media Nigeria Limited.

In April 2025, he was appointed as an Ex-Officio member of the NUJ FCT Council, recognizing his years of impactful journalism and digital media innovation.

He is also the editor of the NUJ FCT online magazine, a platform he uses to promote youth inclusion, governance reforms, and community peace.

Outside journalism, Friday has been instrumental in grassroots initiatives through Project1000, a civic development forum for Yala professionals.

He has led empowerment and agricultural projects since 2019, and his works on peacebuilding have earned him widespread acclaim.

He was awarded the Niger Delta Youth Ambassador honour in 2021 and named Media Personality of the Year at the 2023 Yala Achievers Awards.

Known for his humility, strong moral foundation, and inclusive leadership, Comrade Friday is widely regarded as a patriotic son of Yala.

His new role as SSA on Data Analytics is expected to further enhance transparency, infrastructure development, and youth advancement in Cross River State.