Journalists from Cross River State practising in Abuja and its environs have marked their achievements in 2025, particularly the launch of Panorama Magazine, with a thanksgiving service held on Sunday, February 22, 2026.
The event provided an opportunity for reflection, gratitude to God, and renewed commitment to professional excellence.
According to a statement signed by the Forum’s Secretary, Raphael Ekpang, the service took place at St. John Catholic Church, Mararaba, where members and their families joined the forum’s leadership in offering thanks for the past year and expressing hope for greater accomplishments in 2026.
Delivering the homily during the Mass, Rev. Fr. Abraham Ayaku urged worshippers to use the Lenten season for genuine reconciliation with their Creator.
He noted that God gave Moses the Ten Commandments to guide humanity toward peaceful coexistence.
Citing Matthew 5:27–37, he stressed the importance of guarding one’s heart against anger and harmful speech.
Fr. Ayaku further emphasised that fasting without sincere repentance, forgiveness, and generosity toward the less privileged would yield no spiritual benefit.
In her remarks, Chairman of CROSSJOF, Francisca Ogar, commended members for their dedication to the growth of the forum and their consistent support for the executive council. She expressed optimism that beginning the year with thanksgiving would position the forum for greater blessings.
“It is always good to appreciate whoever is your helper; that way, your helper will do more for you. That is why we are here today—to thank God for what He has been doing for the forum in the last 35 years, so that He will do more for us this year and in the years ahead,” she said.
Dignitaries at the event included the Special Assistant on Media to the Governor of Cross River State, Comrade Emmanuel Ogbeche; NAWOJ National Vice-President, Zone D, Comrade Chizoba Ogbeche; Chairman Emeritus of the forum and Director of Research Strategy at NIDCOM, Mr. Gabriel Odu; former Special Assistant to the Chief Justice of the Federation, Don Bassey Awassam; Elder Sunday Ayami; and other members of the forum.
