Media Relations and Journalists’ Coverage of Akwa Ibom State Government Activities

This study examined media relations and journalists’ coverage of the activities of the Akwa Ibom State Government between 2023 and 2025. The study was anchored on Relationship Management Theory and Agenda-Setting Theory. A mixed-methods research design was adopted, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. The population comprised 792 practicing journalists and public information officers in the state, from which a sample of 219 respondents was selected. Data were collected using questionnaires and a semi-structured interview guide. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson Product Moment Correlation, and simple linear regression, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings revealed that media relations between the government and journalists are generally cordial, with frequent use of press releases, press briefings, meetings, and social media platforms (mean scores above 2.50). However, delays in information dissemination, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and restricted access to government officials were identified as major challenges. The study recommended that the Akwa Ibom State Government ensure the full implementation of the Freedom of Information Act, as this would enable journalists to repties of the state government.