.... Described himself as the most luckiest politician in his constituency.

By Amadie Akpabio, Uyo

As the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly helds its anniversary thanksgiving services today across the 26 state constituency in the state, the Leader of the state legislature, Rt. Hon. Udo Kierian Akpan has described himself as the most luckiest person in the political history of Oruk Anam.

The lawmaker stated this while leading his kinsmen to a thanksgiving service at Methodist Church Nigeria, Ikot Esenam Circuit to mark the second anniversary in the seventh Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.

In his speech, Sir Kierian noted that even though the World has been faced by the Coronavirus pandemic which put the World on a standstill, God's mercy was sufficient for the people of the State.

"I'm here to thank God on behalf of Mr Speaker and members of the seventh Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, within the last one year the world was faced with coronavirus pandemic, but by the mercy of God none of us died as the result of the virus compare to the situation in other places where there was cases of many dead"

Sir Kierian who is representing Oruk Anam State constituency for the third time maintained that he doesn't take for granted the enormous support he enjoyed from his constituents all through his political journey while considering himself the most luckiest political office holder from the area having served for three time in the state legislature.

In his message, the Bishop of Ikot Abasi dioceses, Rev Edem Offiong who read his text from the book of Psalm 21:1-9 and 1st Samuel 16:1-13 admonished worshippers to depend and build their faith on God in order to achieve their desire.

He expressed disappointment over present insecurity in the country. And charged Christians to choose credible leaders with integrity and fear of God who will provide good leadership in Nigeria and Akwa Ibom State.

Nigeria must not disintegrate, Akpabio says as he becomes the 6th Nigerian to bag the Abubakar Tafewa Leadership Award.

The Award which was made known to him via a letter signed by Dr. Abdulmalik Jamil Mohammed, Secretary of Northern Youth Progressive Forum indicated that Akwa Ibom state Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Barr. Prince Ukpong Akpabio will join 5 other eminent Nigerians to be conferred the prestigious Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Leadership Award.

The five Nigerians are Prof. Joshua Ogunwole, Vice Chancellor of Bowen University, Chief Gamba Okanje, Chairman of Elano Investment, Aare Bashir Fakorede, Chairman of Bash Oil and Gas Limited, Hon. Justice Munta Ladipo, Chief Judge of Oyo State and Dr. Adamu Jatau Noma, Director, FCT Education Board.

The letter said that Barr. Akpabio will become the 6th Nigerian to bag the award as Garkuwar Matasan Arewa. The Northern Youth Progressive Forum which coordinates the selection and conferment of the award, has strong presence in the 19 northern states of Nigeria.

Leading the delegation for the award presentation on Tuesday, Abdulmalik Jamil said that Barr. Akpabio was spotted afar for the award in recognition of his immense contribution to national development, youth empowerment, Philantrophy, Service to God and Humanity. He described Akpabio as a bridge builder who has been a worthy ambassador of the youths, an example that youths can do well for the country if given the opportunity.

The body also extolled their latest award recipient for his instance on human capital development as against the tradition of dishing handouts to the populace. They agreed with Barr. Akpabio that the pathway to our prosperity and national development is for Nigeria to harness sustainable means of livelihood through SME development and boosting the productivity level of the country's populace.

"If you can be spotted from afar, your environment and the world is definitely watching you and even though the reward for service to humanity comes from God, it's important for us here on earth to recognize and appreciate deserving and distinguished people amongst us as a way of encouraging others. We award but God rewards ", the group said to their host during the conferment ceremony that happened at the conference hall of the Ministry of Trade and Investment, Idongesit Nkanga Secretariat, Uyo.

While praying that God who made no mistake in bringing us together will not allow us to disintegrate, Nigerians have been tasked to refrain from fanning the embers of ethnicity and sowing seeds of discord. The plea came from the Honourable Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Prince Ukpong Akpabio shortly after the conferment of the Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa platinum award of him. In his remark, Akpabio said that the Northern Youth Progressive Forum which deemed him worthy of the award had engaged in deeds of national unity and must be encouraged to keep the course of a stronger and united Nigeria.

The Commissioner who welcomed the delegation to Akwa Ibom State, where he described as “the emerging investment and industrial hub in Africa”, said he initially intended to decline the award due to his believe that only people who have affected a group positively should be awarded by the group, but obliged to receive the award because of it's essence, and to honour Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, for what he represents as a true Nigerian and African hero. He charged the leadership of Northern Youths Progressive Forum, to preach the message of peace, love and tolerance which is what the country needs in order to overcome her present challenges.

“Nigeria should not allow the circumstances behind her birth to mar the unity of her people. Every situation should not be judged with ethnicity. The mere fact that we came together as a country is enough reason for us to live in peace. It is therefore our duty to sustain the course of our national unity and save this country from disintegration. Nigeria can not afford to breakup in our time. The sacrifices of our heroes past can't be in vain”, he pleaded.

While pledging support to all peace engineering activities of the forum, the Commissioner thanked the NYPF for chosing him out of over seven million Akwa Ibomites for the award, dedicated it to every peace loving Nigerian and promised to use the award and forum to lend his voice in preaching the message of peace and unity to Nigerians, irrespective of their ethnic group.

In a closing remark, the Permananent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Oliver Udoukpo, thanked the NYPF for standing out as forward thinking youths, who are concerned about Nigeria and are ready to take the risk for the unity of the country.

He appreciated the forum “for fishing out the Honourable Commissioner, now Garkuwar Matasan Arewa, for the award”.

Udoukpo also charged the NYPF and every Nigerian to continue to living on the legacies and ideals of our founding fathers. Directors of the Ministry of trade and Investment were amongst the few participants that witnessed the enclosed award presentation ceremony.

“A nation that cannot educate and develop her people, cannot develop anything else” Harbison Barber (1973)

These are indeed interesting times for the people of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency. The days ahead promises to be good as there will be a harvest of life touching projects. This is courtesy of Rep. Unyime Idem, member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in Nigeria’s House of Representatives, who has proven that government can indeed work depending on who is on the leadership saddle.
Apart from his jinx breaking performance of being one of the most audacious golden voices on the floor of the Green Chambers, Rep. Idem who doubles as Deputy Chairman Communications Committee, has sponsored 10 bills and 10 motions some of which have added value to governance. He has sponsored scores of projects some of which are awaiting inauguration while others are nearing completion all within the first 18 months as a Lawmaker.

One of such projects, the very reason for this piece, is the Digital E-learning Centre located inside the premises of some select secondary schools within the Federal Constituency. The beneficiary schools are Community High School, Usung Atiat Ukanafun; Afaha High School, Ikot Udombang, Ukanafun; Community Secondary School, Urua Ekpaenang, Ukanafun; and Community Secondary School, Mbiakot Oruk Anam LGA. Also, Rep. Idem has made provision for 160 set of computers for the 4 Digital learning centres, 20 KVA Generating set, solar panels to power the centers, boreholes to the schools, e-learning tools such as electronic boards, projector and screens, free wireless internet services. I am in the know that this is the first phase of the digitisation process; that before the end of his 4-year tenure, he will inaugurate 16 more e-learning centres bringing the total number to 20.
Let me say without much equivocation that this is not only noble but a right step in the right direction. The reason is simple; the 21st century economy or society is one controlled by education and ICT. Top world economies and aspiring ones are those that have since embraced technology and digital education as a way of life. Japan, India and recently Kenya and Rwanda, have invested heavily in digital education. India for example has invested heavily in ICT and digital education. Today, Indians are everywhere in the world doing exploits using ICT. Digital education has transformed young minds to inventors whose products have contributed significantly to the blossoming of their nations’ economy. Young school leavers in Kenya for example have developed Mobile Apps that is helping banking and other sectors in their country achieve seamless operation. This is exactly what will happen to Akwa Ibom State as soon as these children complete their tutelage and romance at the E-Learning centres.
Digital education means the innovative use of digital tools and technologies during teaching and learning. In other words, it can be seen as any type of learning that is accompanied by technology or by instructional practice that makes effective use of technology.

Rep Idem by this act of his has set the ball rolling for the digitising of education in rural areas of Ukanafun and Oruk Anam. The benefits of having these e-learning centres are legion. It will empower teachers and students by getting them to be more interested in learning and expanding their horizons; enable students to develop effective self-directed learning skills. Beneficiaries will be able to identify what they need to learn, find and use online resources, apply the information on the problem at hand, and even evaluate resultant feedback. Teacher and Students of beneficiary schools in Ukanafun/Oruk Anam, will become more engaged in the process and more interested in growing their knowledge base. They will develop the ability to create their own and ideally even generate jobs for others. Communication becomes easier for them. Need I add that text books are converted to PDF formats for ease of access and readability while study becomes fun as videos and pictorials are used to teach students.

A chat with some of the beneficiary teachers and students reveal the depth of their happiness as some are coming in contact with computer system for the first time while other students hoped to enroll for a computer class outside their domain either as university students or after their secondary education. Others also talked about the amount involved in acquiring a computer education hence are grateful to Rep. Idem for providing them with such a life time opportunity. Also, these centres can be used by JAMB to conduct registration, examinations and save our children the stress of having to travel distances to take such exams.
It is important to also add that Rep Idem has also provided a platform for these students to be interacting with the outside world, and for the state to harvest computer scientists, Information Systems, Software Engineers, artificial intelligence savvy students, social media experts, digital communications gurus and marketers, coaches and others who would help Akwa Ibom State fit into the emerging knowledge economy. Also, experts on e-commerce, e-economy, e-government, cyberspace security, are being primed through this initiative of Rep. Idem. Only few months of having interface with the e-learning centers, the students are already up to speed with the many benefits they stand to gain should they take their new skills serious.

By all standard, this is a noble project that needs to be supported by the state government and replicated in other Federal Constituencies. Imagine an Akwa Ibom State with 20 E-learning centres in each of the 10 federal constituencies; that amounts to 200 E-learning centres in Akwa Ibom State. Let us assume that an average of 200 students are trained in ICT matters in each of these centres; that will amount to 40,000 ICT certified experts from our secondary school alone. Then imagine an Akwa Ibom state with 40,000 ICT complaint students; your guess is as good as mine as per the impact and spill over effects.

Let me passionately appeal to other federal lawmakers from Akwa Ibom to follow the example of Rep. Unyime Idem by sponsoring setting up of E-learning centres in our schools. While the era of traditional teaching is fast fading away and becoming obsolete, digital learning has become the norm. The outbreak of corona virus exposed our inadequacies as a nation. We had to resort to radio stations to educate our children while the lock down lasted. The move by Rep. Idem is the way to go to avoid a repeat of what transpired during the lock down. Gone are the days when we applaud Lawmakers who empower with motor cycles, barbing saloon kits, keke and other menial kits. Real empowerment is in supporting your constituents to learn life enhancing skills that will help them in future and whose benefits are generational.

May I also unpretentiously request that the Akwa Ibom state government through the Education, Science and Technology Ministries, should adopt the Unyime Idem example of digitizing education in the state. The education road map recently put in place by the state government should accommodate digitization. The Akpabio government established an E-Library. Now is the time to put that library into functional use. Thanks goodness renovation work has since commenced on the complex. The Science and Technology Commissioner as a matter of urgency should integrate these centres into the Ministry’s scheme of things for optimum performance. The centres can be linked via internet to the activities of the E-Library.

Let me reiterate my earlier opinion that the 21st century leaders are those who knows the way, shows the way, goes the way and provide a platform for the younger generation to find their foot in life. Rep. Idem is a prototype of that 21st century leader determined to help groom the next generation of leaders. Few months back, he donated 50,000 text and note books to schools in the federal constituency. He also donated white boards and other instructional materials to schools. Barring any change, Rep. Idem will this December, inaugurate 2 nos 1000-seater capacity state-of-the-art skills acquisition and empowerment centres, one at Ikot Udo Obobo Ukanafun and the other at Ikot Okoro, Oruk Anam. The centres will offer constituents opportunity to learn any skill of their choice for free, and become job and wealth creators.
Thank you Rep. Unyime Idem for thinking about the future of your constituents. Thank you for reaching out to the students in the remotest part of your federal constituency. Thank you for bringing the world down to your federal constituency through the E-learning centres. You are living true to your name IDEMS – Inspire, Develop, Empower, Motivate and Support.

Deacon Vincent Aluu – Ubokutomabasi Kiet of Akwa Ibom State and Publisher, Naija Eye Witness News.

…Says Democracy thrives when the people’s wellbeing is topmost.

By Naija Eye Witness News

The Deputy Chairman Communications Committee and member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Rep. Unyime Idem, has restated his commitment to the provision of democratic dividends to the people of Ukanafun and Oruk Anam.

Idem, disclosed this yesterday, November 7, 2020, while inspecting ongoing development projects in parts of Ukanafun and Oruk Anam. Idem maintained that there can be no meaningful democracy when the progress, development and well being of the people are not given pride of place. He lauded the contractors for the speed with which they are handling various projects stating that they will be ready in record time for use.

He said, “Democracy thrives when the progress, development and well-being of the people are given pride of place. What is democracy when the people cannot fulfil their destinies in life? As leaders, we must join hands to help lift our people up and be the shoulder for them to climb and get a better life”

The Ukanafun-born lawmaker also noted that for peace and progress to be achieved in any society, the youths must be meaningfully engaged and assisted to find their fit in life. He disclosed that as part of his mandate to help raise the next generation of leaders, he initiated the construction of 2 nos 1000-seater capacity skills acquisition and empowerment centres in both Ukanafun and Oruk Anam, ICT/E-Learning Centres and other training programmes that will enhance acquisition of life-enhancing skills as well as transform the youths to job and wealth creators.

Naija Eye Witness News reports that project sites visited were fully equipped ICT/E-Learning Centre at Community High School, Usung Atiat, Skills Acquisition Centre at Ikot Udo Obobo.

Rep. Idem who is constantly in touch with his constituents, attended the burial obsequies of late Eka Iban Mercy Raymond Ekpo of Nung Ita 1, Oruk Anam, and paid a condolence visit to the family of late Mr. Emmanuel Udoidung of Ikot Inyang Abia, Ukanafun. Idem also made a stop over at the wedding ceremony of Deacon Akaninyene and Sister Enwongo at Ikot Akpa Nkuk, Ukanafun.

Thereafter, the telecoms guru who was accompanied by the Technical Committee members led by Mr. Clayton Eyeneka, had meeting with elders, youths and women of Usung Atiat where he outlined some of his plans for them including construction of classroom block with VIP toilets at Community High School, remodeling of existing school blocks and construction of Community Hall, etc.

He urged the people to encourage their wards to take advantage of the E-learning centres for their own good when opened for public use.

The Senior Special Assistant to Akwa Ibom State Governor on Electoral Matters, Barr.Igwat-Osagyefo Umoren has assured the people of Akwa Ibom State that the October 31 Local Government polls in the State shall be conducted in a free and peaceful atmosphere across the state.

The Governor's Aide was speaking to our reporter in Ikot Ibritam, Oruk Anam Local Government Area. He also assured the people that the State Governor, Deacon Udom Emmanuel has put in all measures to ensure the safety and security of all voters and the people of the State during the exercise and urged them to go out enmarse to exercise their franchise to elect Local Government leaders in their various Local Government Areas.

Barr.Umoren has also commended the State Chief Executive for his proactive leadership style which has addressed the agitations of the youths. He advised the youths to embrace peace and shun activities that may lead to the destruction of properties in the State but rather should help protect and defend the interest of the Government at all times.

Barr. Umoren has in the vein assured on the government's confidence in AKISIEC, the state electoral body, to uphold its constitutional mandate to conducting acceptable and hitch free elections.

Source: Nigeria Today

By Victor Essang

Mr. Udom Emmanuel made the call during the official unveiling ceremony of the Ibom Entrepreneurship Society which took place Wednesday in Uyo with the theme:
The need For Third Catalyst In Strengthening Entrepreneurship Development In Akwa Ibom State.

The Akwa Ibom Governor has called on entrepreneurs to embrace the Ibom Entrepreneurship Society (IES) Initiative to contribute their quota towards the promotion of the entrepreneurship sector of the state. He appreciated the promoters of the initiative which he said was in the interest of Akwa Ibom and in line with the Dakkada philosophy created and launched 2015

In the meeting he was duly represented by the (SSA) on Skills development, Mrs. Alice Ekpenyong, He commended the contribution and initiative saying it was geared towards the development and forward movement of the State. Gov. Emmanuel promised to acknowledge all development that comes as a result of the efforts and role of entrepreneurs in the state.

In his opening speech, he added that the government will partner with groups and NGOs that are willing to grow Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the state

He also disclosed that the government was working assiduously to combat the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on entrepreneurs making effort to alleviate the effect of this pandemic on SMEs, adding that it welcomes suggestions from stakeholders in the sector.

The Chairman on the occasion, Mrs. Meflyn Anwana described entrepreneurship as a critical sector of the economy that must be developed, supported, and encouraged to drive the economic variables that will inturn cause the development of whole sectors. She said, "I believe this is one of the things IES is targeted at achieving and I know by God's grace we will achieve that in the end.

Mrs. Anwana who is also the Special Assistant (SA) to the Governor on Entrepreneurial development said lending support to a network of entrepreneurs will go a long way to encouraging them to continue doing their good work, also applauding entrepreneurs for their contributions to the development of the society.

She added that entrepreneurs remain one of the key variables that serve as a catalyst for the growth of any economy and the governor is focused on growing and diversifying the economy of the State with entrepreneurs as critical partners, this is why there is a serious effort across different government agencies in promoting and driving entrepreneurship in the state especially during this post-COVID-19 era" She reiterated the government's resolve to collaborate with IES to support more entrepreneurs in the state in terms of facilitating training and providing Business support and linkages among others.

While congratulating the promoters of IES on the unveiling of the brand, the SA urged them to be focused on advancing the goals and aspirations of entrepreneurs and businesses in the state and ensure unity of purpose and direction. She lauded governor Emmanuel for the Dakkada philosophy which she said has been entrenched in the hearts and minds of all Akwa Ibomites.

The President and Chairman, Executive Board of IES, Mr. Emmanuel Daniels, said Ibom Entrepreneurship Society is coming on board to stimulate sustainable entrepreneurship in Akwa Ibom with membership open to all Akwa Ibomites both at home and in the diaspora who are existing or prospective entrepreneurs.
Mr. Daniels said "in strengthening the entrepreneurship landscape, IES seeks to dialogue and partner with government at all levels, engage the private sector with a view to catalyzing entrepreneurship, modify cultural norms and remove cultural barriers that are antagonistic to entrepreneurship, advocate the removal of regulatory bureaucracy, encourage the celebration of successes, establish strategic capacity building on contemporary issues as well as attract grant and ensure bankable Ibom business plan"

The launch of Dakkada philosophy by the present administration has changed the mindset of the people of the State to embrace entrepreneurship adding that IES which is a third sector platform was established to complement various government initiatives.

He appreciated the entrepreneurs for gracing the occasion, saying that by attending the event, they have not only honored them but have sent a very strong message to Akwaibomites that with the oneness of purpose, we will find the best way to rise.
The President commended the effort of the executive board for making IES move from the drawing board stage that started about two years ago to a full-fledged third sector organization which is duly registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission.

While giving an overview of IES, he described it as a house with one roof, one voice, and one person having seven pillars of Innovation, Support, Finance, Culture, Education, Markets, and Policies.
He identified Re-enforcement, Ability, Knowledge, Desire, and Awareness as the foundation upon which IES is built upon, saying they were fully prepared to ensure the success of the initiative.

Finally, The keynote speaker, Prof Edet Akpakpan, stressed the need to develop the capacity of entrepreneurs to boost the economy of the State.

Mr. Akpakpan who is a professor of economics and former DVC) Administration, University of Uyo said entrepreneurs are critical to the growth of any society, adding that any society without a pool of entrepreneurs will be backward.
"We need entrepreneurs that will create enterprises that will strengthen the economy and we need a strong economy to be able to have a better life

He lauded the government for the quest to develop entrepreneurship in the state through the creation of an enabling environment and encouraged people to take advantage of the infrastructure on the ground to start their businesses.

The Executive Secretary/CEO of IES, Mr. Ufford Ebong while urging the entrepreneurs to embrace the initiative, assured them of their resolve to guide them to succeed in their businesses.The event ended with the official unveiling and cutting of the IES cake.

…Makes Case for other Federal Universities in Nigeria.

By Naija Eye Witness News

The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency release the traditional takeoff grant to University of Uyo. The decision was reached during Tuesday’s plenary following a motion brought before it by Deputy Chairman Communications Committee and Member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Rep. Unyime Idem.

This motion has become necessary because 29 after its establishment, University of Uyo is yet to receive any form of take off grant from the federal government.

After due consideration of the motion, the House presided over by Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila urged the Federal Government to, as a matter of urgency release the take-off grant meant for University of Uyo and others Universities.

The House also mandated its Committee on Education to liaise with the relevant federal government agencies (Federal Ministry of Education and National Universities Commission), to take stock of universities affected, ensure compliance and report to the House within four weeks.

Presenting the motion during plenary, Rep Idem wondered why take off grants designed to assist University of Uyo and other new universities prepare grounds for take-off of academic and other activities, support training and equipment that facilitate preparedness, or pay the salaries of pioneer workers, assist in the provision of requisite technology, books and other crucial materials needed to run the school at the beginning stage as well as professional development for teachers, were not released decades after approval.
Idem also made case for other universities including Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umuahia, University of Jos, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Anambra State and other affected federal universities.
He described the case of University of Uyo, his amla mater, as pathetic noting that 29 years after creation, it was yet to receive take off grant from the federal government while all efforts to get the funds released have remained unsuccessful.

According to the telecoms guru, “University of Uyo, formerly known as the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), is a third-generation university established on October 1, 1991. It commenced academic activities without the traditional take off grant but had to grapple with lean resources to manage its affairs. Owing to the peculiarity of the Town Campus surrounding, the University could not develop beyond what it is today because of ravine. It took the intervention of the then state government to acquire and donate the Annex campus to help the young university expand. The University later got its permanent site on the outskirt of the state capital where it presently occupies. It is now twenty-nine years after the Federal Government took over the University of Cross River State renaming it University of Uyo, yet the traditional take-off grant has not been released to the institution”

Idem further noted that this unfortunate development has hampered the rapid provision of needed infrastructures at various main campuses of the affected universities, leading to the overstretching of existing facilities. The implication is that students are overcrowded in lecture halls and have resorted to having classes under trees, lecturers are sandwiched into inadequate offices while vital infrastructure are lacking. The consequence is that productivity is hampered while the quality of education and graduates continue to plummet.

He also averred that the failure of the federal government to release the said take-off grant to the affected Universities from the onset, led to untold hardship since funds meant for other projects were now deployed to provide immediate remediation. There is no denying the fact that these Universities are still faced with the challenges of inability to provide a befitting physical facility, payment of staff promotion arrears, arrears of salary shortfalls, payment of earned allowances, and engagement of more staff to improve the staff-student-ratio.
Rep. Idem further believes that the speedy release of the take-off grant to the affected Universities will help them a great deal to surmount some of their present challenges, achieve the dreams of the founding fathers, provide conducive learning and teaching environment for both staff and students and contribute their quota to development of middle-level manpower and scholarship.

It is hoped that with the present move by the House of Representatives, the Federal government will do the needful and ensure immediate release of the takeoff grants.

By Umoh Joshua

Perhaps, for the first time since the creation of Akwa Ibom State, this year’s statehood anniversary celebrations came not with the characteristic appurtenances of flamboyant feastings and festivities. Occasioned by the desire to manage the exposures of the now ubiquitous COVID 19 pandemic, the Akwa Ibom State Government reasonably scaled down activities to just a few vintage events. Asides a thanksgiving service, Governor’s anniversary message broadcast, inauguration of a new Chairman of the State Council of Chiefs, an award event, flag-off of few projects, there was presentation of the state anthem, flag and emblem.

We, the people of Akwa Ibom State, were partakers of these festivities, physically, remotely or merely by association. Together, we shared in the joy of the present, partly because we shared in the memory of the past. Believe me, there is a nexus connecting our experiences in the past to our experiments in the present and to our expectations of the future.

This piece, in some constrained sense, aspires to reminisce our past experiences, reappraise our present experiments and consequently inspire a rethink of our future expectations. It seeks to interrogate the plausibility or otherwise of the recently kindled conversations about micro-zoning, in the build-up to 2023. Let us kick-start with the experience of the past.

The Past:
After the 1952 political maneuvers in the Western House of Assembly denied Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, a foremost pan-Nigerian politician from Eastern Region, the chance to be elected to the House of Representatives in Lagos, Dr. Azikiwe felt ethnically discriminated against and returned to the Eastern Region, where the N.C.N.C, his own party was also in control of the House of Assembly. His intention was to replace Prof. Eyo Ita, an Ibeno man from Calabar Province who was his second-in-command in N.C.N.C. and was leading in the Eastern House of Assembly at the time. There was an upset. There was a split. There were ethnic alliances and Dr. Azikiwe won in 1953.

It was that bitter experience that further inspired the non-Igbo of Calabar, Ogoja and Rivers (COR) Provinces to resolve to organize themselves for a state or states of their own. The COR Movement was sired, led principally by Dr. Udo Udoma and others. In 1967, Cross River and Rivers States were created out of the COR Provinces. After the collapse of the Second Republic in 1983, a memorandum demanding the creation of Akwa Ibom State was submitted to the General Buhari-led administration by the Paramount Rulers of the 10 LGAs that made up the mainland part of the then Cross River State. Nothing happened still. The agitations continued and on Wednesday, September 23, 1987, the age-long dream of those who desired a Mainland State of Ibibio, Annang, Oron and others with headquarters in Uyo, came true with the creation of Akwa Ibom State by General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida.

Though Akwa Ibom State was officially partitioned out from the old Cross River State in 1987, the aspiration for statehood stretched as far back as the 1930s. It was certainly not a walk through the highway but a crawl through a labyrinth. It was a slow, steady, long and tortuous journey for the survival of a people.

At various defining moments in our collective past, Akwa Ibom State has been blessed with befitting leaders to steer its ship of state, either as military administrators or as elected governors. Col. Tunde Ogbeha was Akwa Ibom’s first military administrator and did his pioneering bits between September 28, 1987 and July 30, 1988. Between July 31, 1988 and September 5, 1990, Col. Godwin Abbe did his best to bring his predecessor’s plan out of the drawing board. When Abbe left, Idongesit Nkanga arrived as the first indigenous military administrator and turned things for good between September 5, 1990 and January 2, 1992. Same date, the first civilian Governor, Obong Akpan Isemin took over and began his revolutionary works, which were abruptly stalled by a military interregnum on November 18, 1993. On December 15, 1993, Lt. Col. Yakubu Bako began his time as the military administrator of the state and was replaced on August 21, 1996 by Joseph Adeusi, an Army officer who became the sixth Chief Executive Officer of the state. On August 9, 1998, Adeusi transmitted the baton to Group Captain John Ebiye, the witty, calm but strict disciplinarian who oversaw the military-to-civilian transition programme in the state.

With the return and subsequent entrenchment of constitutional democracy in Nigeria, Arc. Obong Victor Attah got elected and served for two terms between May 29, 1999 and May 29, 2007. That pioneering dispensation of visionary leadership, infrastructural renaissance and struggle for resource control was succeeded by an eight-year era of uncommon transformation and significant infrastructural development championed by another elected Governor, Chief Godswil Obot Akpabio, between May 29, 2007 to May 29, 2015. Then came the incumbent Chief Executive: Governor Udom Emmanuel.

The Present:
After a keenly contested election, Governor Udom Emmanuel took over the saddle of power on May 29, 2015, with a five-point agenda bordering on wealth creation, economic and political inclusion, poverty alleviation, infrastructural consolidation and expansion, as well as job creation. With the administration of Mr. Emmanuel now close to one and half years into its second term, the Government has brought in revolutionary leadership, massive industrialization and accelerated infrastructural development.

At 33, while the incumbent Governor of Akwa Ibom State is putting his nose to the grindstone in his efforts to better the fortunes of the state at a critical time like now, some political gladiators had since begun scheming for the Governor’s successor, ahead of the closure of his second term by May, 2023. One way they do this is to stoke certain political conversations intended to stir up the polity and galvanize sentiments in favour of their interests.
Let’s now interrogate one of such recently instigated conversations: Micro-zoning.

The Future:
Of late, some actors and gladiators in the state have sponsored a new conversation bordering on zoning and micro-zoning, with the subtle aim to court, coax or crimp palatable public sentiments for themselves or the interest(s) they represent.

While some elders and stakeholders believe the time is not yet ripe for 2023-focused discussions, some others hold the position that there is nothing to even discuss at all, as it is already common knowledge that the next governor of Akwa Ibom State will emerge from Uyo Senatorial District.

The later set are of the opinion that since the first round of rotation that coincided with the commencement of constitutional democracy in Nigeria commenced with Obong Victor Attah from Uyo Senatorial District (1999-2007) and continued with Chief Godswill Akpabio from Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District (2007-2015) and is wrapping up with Mr. Udom Emmanuel from Eket Senatorial District (2015-2023); another cycle of rotation should naturally begin with Uyo Senatorial District. The position is further stretched to imply that since Senatorial District with a mix of ethnic considerations sufficed in 1999, 2007 and 2015, any attempt to micro-zone the office to any specific Federal Constituency within USD by 2023 may tantamount to shifting the goalpost in the middle of a game.

Conversely, some elders from Itu/Ibiono Federal Constituency are of the opinion that since Uyo Federal Constituency in 1999 produced Obong Attah from Ibesikpo Asutan who served the State for eight years, the hilltop seat in 2023 should be micro-zoned to Itu/Ibiono Federal Constituency. Arrowheads of this proposition further argue that since Etinan Federal Constituency took a bite at the plum job in 1992 through the Late Obong Akpan Isemin whose tenure was aborted due to the 1993 military interregnum, Etinan Federal Constituency should just ‘calm down’.

Some stakeholders and elders of Etinan Federal Constituency have admitted that even though they are yet to meet as a bloc to decide their fate on their 2023 expectation, they strongly believe 2023 should afford them the opportunity to consolidate on the victory of Obong Isemin who was duly elected but was not allowed to serve, following the 1993 military take-over by Gen. Sani Abacha. Those in this school of thought believe Etinan Federal Constituency (comprising of Etinan, Nsit Ibom and Nsit Ubium LGAs) should be favoured for the role the Federal Constituency has played since after the premature abortion of Isemin’s mandate, in supporting others and deepening the fabrics of democracy in Akwa Ibom State.

Meanwhile, there are those from Uyo Federal Constituency who also believe the Federal Constituency may somehow still gain access to the hilltop scepter, by some stroke of luck.

To drive home their various persuasions, a few stakeholders particularly of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have begun to call on the incumbent Governor and the leadership of their party to convene roundtable talks to allow them vent their sentiments on the triune issues of zoning, micro-zoning or zero-zoning.

Weighing into this conversation, the Ink Newspaper, in its September 22, 2020 edition, reportedly submitted that while these conversations are ongoing, its checks revealed that the PDP would likely foreclose the chances of Uyo Federal Constituency joining the governorship race in 2023, but was likely to allow an open contest amongst contenders from Etinan Federal Constituency and Itu/Ibiono Federal Constituency and that a deputy governor would likely be picked from Oro Federal Constituency, while Ikot Ekpene may get Speaker of the State Assembly.

End Notes:
But as I begin to draw the curtains, let me let you interrogate for yourself the plausibility or otherwise of the mumbles over micro-zoning. Before one gets consumed in the ensuing hullabaloos in the days ahead, one may need to pause and intelligently ponder on some issues. Here are a few posers.

Micro-zoning, zoning, zero-zoning: What difference does it make? Is the time yet ripe for these conversations? If there were no micro-zoning considerations in 1999, 2007 and 2015, why now? What do the promoters of micro-zoning seek to gain? In 2023, what kind of leader is fit to lead the new Akwa Ibom? What should his or her qualifications and antecedents be?

My end notes therefore are: 1. Let us focus less on the next election but more on the next generation. 2. Let us border less on trivialities, banalities and mundanities but more on the basic requirements for good governance. 3. Let us argue less over cosmetic issues and think more on things that can better our lots as a people. And 4. Let our considerations for the next leader of a Post COVID 19 Akwa Ibom be hinged on these critical three: Character, Competence and Capacity.

God bless Akwa Ibom!

...Commends the Foundation for Divine and Humanitarian Services



A catholic Church in the Diocese of Uyo; Assumption Parish, Obio Ibiono has honoured the Ini Ememobong Foundation with an award of excellence.

The award was presented on Saturday 26th September,2020 by the Chairman of the Occasion; Sir Uduakobong Akpan KSJI to the Chairman, the Ini Ememobong Foundation, Comrade Ini Ememobong.

Receiving the award, Comrade Ini Ememobong who was represented by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Project Monitoring; Mr Martin Inyangetoh, expressed the foundation's profound gratitude to the Church leadership and the organisers of the event for the honour done the foundation, maintaining that such act will help encourage the foundation to do more in rendering divine and humanitarian Services.

Comrade Ememobong further stressed that the foundation having been a non-, governmental organization is committed to supporting people realise their utmost potentialities in any sphere of life as well as partner as many people or group of people as the foundation can, so as to help them get to the newest territories of accomplishment and self-reliance.

In their separate remarks, the Parish Priest; Rev Fr Jude Isuk and the Pastoral Council Chairman, Mr Joseph Udoh while commending the foundation for the many lives that it has positively touched and transformed through the various programs and initiatives, intimated that the church leadership carefully selected the foundation for the award because they were satisfied with the level of contributions made by the foundation towards the growth and progress of the universal Church and humanity.

The Church leaders used the medium to congratulate the Foundation for the award well deserved while admonishing it to continue in the good work with a prayer of hope that God will reward the leadership of the foundation to the glory of God.

The Foundation made cash donation in support of the Church for the completion of the church auditorium and the Chapel under construction.

Highpoint of the event was the presentation of awards to the deserving individuals and groups, official decoration and presentation of Prof Gabriel Ekandem as the new Patron of the Church and 50million naira fund raising for the completion of the Church Auditorium and Chapel of perpetual Adoration initiated to immortalise late Dominic Cardinal Ekandem

INEC/AK/AD/12/Vol. II/x
September 15th, 2020

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is set to arraign some University lecturers for electoral malfeasance.
The lecturers who were engaged as Collation and Returning Officers during the 2019 General elections were reported to have manipulated and falsified election results aimed at producing outcomes contrary to the will of the people as expressed through the ballot.

Following a formal request by the Commission, the authorities of the affected institutions released the lecturers to appear before an Investigative Panel set up by INEC Headquarters on the 12th and 26th August, 2020. The Panel subsequently established a prima facie documentary evidence of deliberate criminal manipulation of election results against the Collation/Returning Officers. They will be arraigned in Court accordingly.

While the unethical conduct of these lecturers does not represent that of the overall majority who worked diligently and with dignity as Collation Officers in the 2019 General Elections in the State, the Commission believes that every wrongful act that violates and threatens the sanctity of the ballot must be punished.

This should be a lesson and a clear message to all ad hoc Staff, particularly those that would be engaged as Supervising Presiding Officers (SPOs) and Collation/Returning Officers in future elections in this State as well as other places where the Commission would be conducting elections in the days and months ahead.

Poll Officials must observe the highest principles of ethical standards required of them.
Similarly, the Commission in the exercise of its statutory powers to appoint, dismiss and exercise disciplinary control over its staff, has dismissed three (3) members of staff of the Commission in Akwa Ibom State office who were involved in misconduct during the elections.

They had appeared before the Appointment, Promotion and Disciplinary Committee (APDC) of the Commission that found them culpable of acts of gross misconduct and accordingly dismissed them in line with extant rules.

It would be recalled that prior to the 2019 general elections, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Akwa Ibom State, Mike Igini Esq, had repeatedly warned all electoral personnel, both permanent and ad hoc, to shun acts likely to compromise the electoral process and undermine the efforts of the Commission and the confidence of the electorate. He had stressed on several occasion that the Commission, under his watch, would take all administrative and legal actions against any and all who deviate from established electoral guidelines and principles.


Odaro Aisien
HOD, VEP

The Akwa Ibom state government has again assured that it will expedite actions to ensure lasting solutions to erosion menace at Asutan Street, Uyo Village Road and surrounding communities in the state capital.


The Commissioner for Environment and Petroleum Resources, Sir. Charles Udoh who made these known on Monday in Uyo while paying unscheduled visits to some gully erosion sites in the area, appealed to the Federal Government and donor agencies to raise funds to support the fight to curb the menace in the state.


Affected individuals in erosion prone spots were urged to relocate immediately for safety of their lives and properties, while government seeks ways to ameliorate their sufferings.


Sir Udoh noted that most of the erosion related problems in the state are caused by human activities which include dredging  of sand, digging of burrowed pits by construction companies, dumping of refuse and sachets in the gutters and erecting buildings on the water ways. 


He cited a case of Etim Umana gully erosion site where Government has spent billions of naira but people are sabotaging by building and farming on the slop and further stated that such illegal structures will be demolished by the government.


He also announced that his Ministry is ready to carry out Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) in all government projects to save  lives and properties in the state


The gully erosion sites visited by the commissioner were Asutan street, Ikpa Road and Uyo village Road by Ibom Blue science and technology park project site, and was accompanied by director of flood in the ministry, Mr. Okon  Effiong


Earlier one of citizens of the area Hon. Idongesit Henry thanked the Commissioner for the prompt visit to the erosion site and pledged the community's readiness to cooperate with the  Government in effort to salvage the area with the flood.


Another citizen of the area Mr. Austin Itong  said the problem of the area was not as result of human activities but because of the run off channelled by construction companies handling roads in the area, and that lots of buildings in the area have approval from the state government. 


He appealed to government for  palliatives to the residents to cushion the effects of their challenges.

Despite growing concerns over the economic challenges associated with the global pandemic, Governor Udom Emmanuel is committed to the completion of major projects embarked upon for the well being of Akwa Ibom people.

One of these is the completion of a world class international terminal building and other innovations geared at repositioning Akwa Ibom as an aviation hub in Africa.

The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Special Duties, Rt. Hon. Okpolupm Etteh gave the assurrances, during an inspection visit on work around the project site over the weekend.

He explained that the new international terminal building is designed to meet the highest level of intelligence and smart building standard, and will match any of the internationally ranked airport terminals when completed.

He stated that ,"The security architecture is very high, there would be finger print digital pass or card pass, whether you are a passenger or staff.

"The facility will have four methods of fire prevention - fire extinguishers, fire water sprinkler system, fire detectors (heat, smoke and temperature detectors), FM 200 ie automated fire suppression system," he said.

Hon Etteh commended Governor Emmanuel's foresightedness and sincerity, which accounted for the rapid progress of the project despite the pandemic, assuring that the facility would be ready on schedule.

Also speaking, the Project Manager, Onur Uzel, said the terminal building project has three floors and is designed to accommodate over one million passengers per year with a total area of construction of about 30,000 square meters.

He explained that there will be a digital self check-in by a robot pre-planned before Covid-19 and counter check-in as well with five bridges, staircases, seven lifts and four escalators, which are pressure sensitive and only move when a passenger is detected on it.

He also explained that a special roof that can last up to 200 years without changing its colour, was conceptualized for the project.

Uzel further said the facility comes with an automated system to check bag contents while the departure area will have outlets of an International Airport runway and would also have a sick bay and staff lodge.

The project manager maintained that the facility was designed by experts from Nigeria, United Kingdom, United States and Turkey.

MEDIA UNIT
GOVT HOUSE,UYO
14/09/20

By Umani Uwemedimo

"We stand ready and committed to provide jobs for the people of Akwa Ibom State. The site will represent first chapter in the book of industrialization we have opened today. Already, we have acquired 20 hectares of land for the Automobile Assembling Plant, which is one of the fruits of the Foreign Direct Investment."- Governor Udom Emmanuel said during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Automobile Assembling Plant on July 13, 2015.

It's without doubt that an Automobile Industry is one that creates great impacts in the global market, and as a matter of fact, it controls not less than 45% of the world's economy. Its growth has caused an economic revolution across the globe, for example; in America, Japan, Israel, Germany and other European countries where manufacturing and automobile assembling are done. This is why the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel deployed his synergy into ensuring there's one of its kind in his State.

In one of my articles about the unprecedented achievements of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, I opined that the governor is one person who creates great things from virtually nothing. The story of the Automobile Assembling Plant is one landmark achievement that can never be ignored whenever global revolution is emphasized.

From hitherto, a core Civil Service State, Governor Emmanuel has expanded the economy of the State by introducing series of innovations toward achieving his industrial revolutionary goal. While these innovations have yielded great results in his industrialization revolutionary goal, Mr. Emmanuel has tuned Akwa Ibom to an investment destination.

Barely five years back, the Akwa Ibom State governor, His Excellency, Mr. Udom Emmanuel had maintained that his priority is to see the economy of the State and Nigeria at large being diversified. This dream has become a reality in Akwa Ibom State. The states has drifted from depending on the crude oil market, to exploring other components of the global market. Many industries have been brought to bear within this short while. One of these industries is the Automobile Assembling Plant located in Itu Local Government Area of the State.

The Automobile Assembling Plant whose groundbreaking ceremony was done by the governor of the State in July, 13th 2015, is on record as the first ground breaking ceremony done by the him shortly after his inauguration into office then. The project had created great doubts in the minds of the people within and outside the shores of the State. Whenever it was mentioned, people felt terribly disappointed prior to its physical state as at then.

After few years, many people were forced into believing that the conceived Automobile Plant by the governor was a scam. This they didn't do because they hated the governor nor disbelieved in his industrialization drive, but it was simply because expectations were high and when it turned out as if they were basking in the euphoria of unattainability, they decided to give up, not knowing that the governor and the investors were still having sleepless nights, working relentlessly to ensure that the common dreams and hopes of the people are not thwarted.

So many people were ignorant of the fact that such a mega project involves a lot of careful planning and documentations both at the State and National level before any action is taken. They had expected everything to be up and running just like the magics they see in Hollywood, Nollywood or Bollywood movies. They didn't know that behind the forest they saw at Ikot Ukap in Itu LGA, these people were working the work in silence and they had already pictured the future of the factory.

Today, everything has been put in place for the commencement of its full operations. This is a clear testimony that governor Udom Emmanuel is a visionary leader who always create things from virtually nothing. Anyone who follows him should be rest assured that he is on the right track, and can never be disappointed.

The Automobile Assembling Plant, is set for operations in Akwa Ibom State with every required equipment already on ground. With an ultra-modern edifice with world class infrastructural facilities, the investors of the factory has proven to Akwa Ibom people that indeed, they meant business when they came to inform us in 2015 of their intention to establish their first ever plant in Africa. There have also proven that the effort of governor Udom Emmanuel towards the birth and effective operations of the factory is not in vain.

The Plant is the first Automobile Manufacturing/Assembling Plant in the Niger Delta region and will be one of the biggest in Nigeria. The target is to become the best not just in Nigeria, but also in Africa in the next couple of years, and with everything that has been put in place, the dream will sure become a reality.

As part of the activities to start full operations without delay, the factory as at last week had forwarded a letter to the State Government for the activation of a part of the pact entered between the government and the Investors. This was that a certain number of Akwa Ibomites will be selected based on their skills, and sent to Israel for the perfection of these skills of theirs. This training which will last for months will instill on them the necessary skills and experience required to properly assemble vehicles of different kinds. The training in Israel will be done in batches.

Accordingly, these lucky persons who are all specialists in diverse skills connected to automobile, like, upholstery, mechanical, electrical, panel bitting, painting, etcetera etcetera, will be sent to Israel for training and will be the first to be employed in the mega Automobile Assembling Plant. This will be done even before the official commissioning of the factory by the government.

At the completion of their training, they'll return to the State to also practice what they learnt over there, and to also convey same knowledge on other employees who'll be working with them in the factory. They'll assemble the first set of vehicles at the factory.

The factory whose containers arrived Nigeria from Israel during the total lockdown in the world due to the corona virus pandemic is a clear testimony that indeed, ONLY GOD is involved in everything the governor does.

In reality, the Plant will not only boost the economy of the State, it'll create thousands of direct and indirect jobs. By creating these jobs, it therefore implies that the unemployment rate of the State will be greatly reduced.

The Automobile Assembling Plant will create massive employment for graduates and non-graduates. It'll also create an avenue for food vendors to explore, as well as other business minded persons.

With this Plant located in Akwa Ibom , more Transportation Companies are expected into the State. Commercial drivers and Companies who overtime have been found wanting in getting sound vehicles will now have a cause to boost their businesses and operations with sound and brand new vehicles at affordable rates.

The Automobile Assembling Plant in Akwa Ibom State is here to stay, and it has governor Udom Emmanuel's signet imprinted on it. In years to come, whenever Automobile revolution in Africa is recounted, Mr. Udom Emmanuel's name will not be left unmentioned.

Culled from the Ink Newspapers

This is the Automobile Manufacturing and Assembling Company attracted into Akwa Ibom State by His Excellency, Gov. Udom Emmanuel.

The factory is located at Ikot Ukap in Itu Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The factory is expected to be commissioned by first quarter of next year.

At the moment, all the equipment needed to kick-start operations in the factory are on ground awaiting coupling. They're all prefab.

The factory is sending Akwa Ibom people to Israel for onward training on effective manufacturing and assembling of automobiles. Once their training is completed, they'll return to the State to assemble the first set of automobiles in the factory. The training in Israel will be in batches.

The factory will provide thousands of direct and indirect jobs for Nigerians, especially Akwa Ibom people.

The Company has a clinic and pharmacy, and they'll be stocked with world class medical equipment and WHO/NAFDAC approved drugs.

In the clinic, there are wards, maternity is inclusive, theatres, and offices for doctors where consultations will be mmade. This is to help provide effective medical care to staff and also to give community service for the community people who are in emergency situations.

The Akwa Ibom State Government has assured that coconut oil business remains one of its main focus in diversifying the State's economy.

It has also promised to enhance coconut crop production through research on improved farm inputs to farmers in the state.

Governor Udom Emmanuel, represented by his Deputy, Mr Moses Ekpo, gave the assurances at the world coconut day celebration with the theme "Invest in Coconut to Save the World" held at the Idongesit Nkanga Secretariat in Uyo.

He said, "Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy and we will leave no stone unturned in supporting farmers".

He commended farmers who came out to celebrate the first world coconut day in the state, adding that the celebration has created awareness of coconut fruits and its benefits to humanity.

The Commissioner for Agriculture, Glory Edet who presented coconut seedlings to the farmers restated that coconut has many potentials with multiplier effects on income and industrial growth of any economy.

She noted that Akwa Ibom is recognized as one of the states that have invested in coconuts.

"We have 11, 000 hectares coconut Plantation at Mkpat Enin and in other local government areas of the state.

"We have the largest coconut refinery in Africa that can process 300,000 coconuts in a day and we celebrate with great enthusiasm to encourage groups and individuals to participate in coconut cultivation."

The keynote speaker, Professor Nyakudo Ndaeyo, Deputy Vice Chancellor University of Uyo during his speech tagged "Coconut value chain prospects and challenges" explained that inconsistency is the challenge facing agriculture in the state while praying for commitment and consistency towards the coconut plantation and refinery built by Governor Udom Emmanuel.

The Chairman of National Coconut Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NACOPPMAN) Prince Kingsley Usanga in his goodwill message eulogised Governor Emmanuel for having foresight planning crude oil impending exit with Coconut a profitable replacement as the new mainstay.

Also speaking on behalf of the farmers, the publicity secretary of NACOPPMAN Ernest Robert advised people to invest in coconut as over 200 products can be derrived from processing the coconut from husk, milk, oil to fiber.

High point of the celebration was the presentation of coconut seedlings to the Deputy Governor, Directors from various ministries present and farmers in the state and dance performance from cultural groups.

Media Unit
Govt House, Uyo
02/09/20

Governor Udom Emmanuel incursion in the agricultural sector has boosted food production in the state and youths have keyed in to seize the opportunity to become employers of labour rather than wait for white collar jobs.

Before now, no one imagined that cucumber, tomato and other home staples could grow on Akwa Ibom soil but Udom Emmanuel sees beyond what many people's fear could take. He introduced the Dakkada philosophy challenging indigenes to rise to the occasion, and lead the agricultural revolution through AKEES. The result is really amazing, making people more involved in farming than before.

The green houses and other innovations introduced by the Governor have enhanced cultivation of vegetables and other consumables across the state and also ensured that the state becomes a leading tomatoes producing state in Nigeria.

Currently, over 108,000 seedlings of tomatoes are being transplanted from the nursery to beds with expected yields projected for the next two months. The target is 100 hectares of tomatoes field and 7 hectares have so far been reached. The farm is part of the Governor's post Covid19 economic recovery strategy and is poised at boosting tomato availability across the state. The aim is to provide excess food for local consumption, employment for the teeming youths of the state, industrial raw materials for agro based industries, alleviation of poverty as well as generate a rapid return on investment for the State.

Since inception, Governor Emmanuel has shown proof that government can work and that no excuse can substitute for its workability. Akwa Prime Hatchery today is producing 17,000 day old chicks weekly alongside processed poultry products. The Governor is also partnering with World Bamboo Organisation for bamboo development in the State. There is a 10 hectares piece of land also cultivated with tomato at Ekeya, Okobo LGA.
The administration has Successfully trained 10 Akwa Ibom Animal scientists on a Goat Multiplication and Insemination Programme in South Africa, and also trained over 360 youths in Israel on various agricultural enterprises.

This administration has adopted a revolutionary approach in project execution. Since the discovery and commercial exploitation of oil, agriculture which was the state's economic mainstay had long been relegated. Successive government's pledge to diversify the economy through emphasis on agriculture has remained mere rhetoric. But the Udom's administration has however dared to be different.

Aside the massive production of food, Akwa Ibom State Government has also identified the need for accessibility to and availability of food across the state and has ensured that farmers in rural areas have access to urban markets.
About 520km of rural roads have been identified for construction through the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), a World Bank-sponsored project in the state, to which the Governor has already paid counterpart funding.

In one of his keynote addresses, Governor Emmanuel stated that Nigerians should be ready to replace the SUVs on the roads with tractors in the farm. The Government has procured 10 tractors for a tractor hiring centre in Onna to be handled and managed by farmers not government. His policy on agriculture seems embedded in the orientation that a country that cannot feed itself is doomed.

Indeed, it is in the area of agriculture that this government has made the boldest imprint. Its policy and programmes on agriculture are innovative, practical, sustainable and of course without losing sight of the economics of scale.

By Cletus Ukpong

A multi-billion-naira project in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, looks set to be on the path to profitability for the first time ever, after being a drain on government resources for several years.
The project – Ibom Tropicana Entertainment Centre – was categorised as a white elephant project in a PREMIUM TIMES report in 2018.
Its concepts and physical structures are, however, being reworked currently through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between the Akwa Ibom government and the major investor, Median Infrastructure Company Development Ltd to make it generate expected earnings to the government and other investors.

A massive leisure and business complex which sits atop 168 hectares of land, its construction began in 2008 during the administration of Godswill Akpabio who said he wanted to use the Ibom Tropicana to turn the oil-rich state into ‘Dubai’.
It has a 14-floor storey building meant for a 258-room five-star hotel, a Cineplex (six cinema halls), shopping mall, 5,000-seat convention centre, and a theme park, comprising wet and dry parks.
But all of these components, except the Cineplex and a lounge near it, were non-functional and abandoned by the time Mr Akpabio’s tenure ended in 2015.
Even the cinema was not bringing any money into the government coffers, as movie tickets were subsidised by the government and Silverbird Showtime Ltd, the company which operated it, reportedly did not also make any returns to the Akwa Ibom government.
About 45 persons only, including casual workers, were employed at the Cineplex and the bar by 2018, which was far less than the 5,000 envisaged for the centre on its completion.
The Akpabio administration had said initially it would cost the state N33 billion to build the Tropicana, but three people familiar with the project said in 2018 the cost was later reviewed upward to about N120 billion.
Mr Akpabio’s successor, Udom Emmanuel, had said he would rather “lease out” the Ibom Tropicana instead of putting more money into it.

Renovation work was going on at the Ibom Tropicana when a PREMIUM TIMES reporter visited the complex on Saturday. An additional massive concrete structure has been added to the shopping mall, tucked behind it.
“This is where Market Square is going to be,” Olumide Akinsanya, the CEO of Median Infrastructure Company Development Ltd, a major investor in the revamping of the Ibom Tropicana, said of the additional concrete structure, while showing the reporter around the mall.
“There’s no way the mall would have accommodated an anchor with the way it was,” Mr Akinsanya, an engineer, added.
Market Square, a Nigerian company, is a fast-growing retail chain in the country. It was selected as the anchor for the mall after Shoprite withdrew their interest.

Mr Akinsanya said the fall in the value of naira in 2016 scared foreign investors away from investing in the mall. “We are locals, we believe in the economy,” he told PREMIUM TIMES. “We are hopeful that things would improve.”

When Mr Akinsanya’s company in 2015 moved in for the renovation, several parts of the roof were leaking, causing rainwater to collect inside the mall.
Construction workers have been working round the clock to fix it and some structural defects, including refurbishing the elevators, and installation of new electric lines, in order to prepare the mall for its targeted opening date – December 1.
Ibom Tropicana Mall had less than 5,000sq lettable area but with the remodeling, it is about 9,800sq now, said Mr Akinsanya.
Mr Akinsanya said over 1,000 workers and subcontractors have been involved in the renovation work. “The remodeling is over 90 per cent complete,” he said. “We have even commenced pre-let activities.”
Local businesses in Uyo – like Jossy furniture, Quenthall Pharmacy, Oliver Tweest Food, ShadeCover, the Choice Mall – have signed up for some of the 55 shops in the mall, so far.
MedPlus, a health and beauty concernwith outlets around Nigeria, is among the national and international retailers that have signed up too.

“Over 60 per cent of prospective tenants have signed up and they are expected to move in by September 1 and start doing their stocking before the official opening in December,” Mr Akinsanya said.
“This is the cheapest mall in Nigeria in terms of per square metre,” Mr Akinsanya said. “In Uyo (Tropicana Mall), tenants are charged N5,400 per square metre. In Owerri, for instance, it is N9,800 per square metre.
“In Uyo, the food court is N6,500, while a similar food court is N18,000 in other malls.”
Mr Akinsanya said Ibom Tropicana Mall is the only mall in Nigeria that is indexed in naira, unlike others, which are in dollars.
“Akwa Ibom is an investment destination,” he said, “we are here to add value to what the state government is doing.”
Mr Akinsanya said the mall would provide jobs for at least 600 people when it is opened for business. “It will definitely be more than that number when you look at the multiplier effect,” he added.

He told PREMIUM TIMES he was really happy with one thing – “the governor has never interfered with what we are doing here!”
He added, “I am happy he (Governor Udom Emmanuel) is from a private sector, he even understands investment more than I do.”
Akwa Ibom State is a low-income economy, where most working-class people earn moderate salaries, working as government employees.
Some new industries are, however, springing up in the state, courtesy of Mr Emmanuel administration’s effort to attract foreign investors to the state.

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/regional/south-south-regional/411089-akwa-iboms-effort-to-turn-around-abandoned-mega-project-yields-result.html

A mentor, teacher and entrepreneur,Mrs.Janet Amba can well be described as a woman with distinctive and impeccable character.She is a former banker with many years of experience from the private sector to equip for any task ahead in the future.

A business mogul and successful entrepreneur who has nortured her business from the scratch to world standard company that has helped in the employment and engagement of a good number of Akwa Ibom people and Nigerians.Her enormous strides in the private sector was hard to be ignored by her people who needed her services at the community level.She was overwhelmingly voted to hold sway as President General of one of the oldest socio cultural group in Nigeria,the Oro Union.She held the position and left indelible marks in the sands of time.Truth be told, Mrs.

Janet Amba is a recurring decimal in contemporary leadership.Her penchant for success has stood her above her contemporaries, no wonder her capable hands was sought for in the completion agenda of Governor Udom Emmanuel after she served meritoriously as President General of Oro Union and left with a loud ovation.

Chief (Mrs) Janet Amba, is the Senior Special Assistant to Akwa Ibom State Governor on Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) and the immediate past President General of Oron Union, a position she holds record as the First Female to lead the organization.She is a perfect example of the popular saying that "what a man can do,a woman can do it even better."

Strong,Committed and Dedicated Aide to the Akwa Ibom State Governor is a perfect hand to assist the present administration in the completion agenda.Her experience from the private sector has been brought to bear in support of the present administration.The State SME shall record a turn around and a great boost through the vast experience and great ideas of Mrs Amba. As an entrepreneur with remarkable achievements,she understands the challenges of small scale business owners and shall be able to profer solutions to most of them by recommending and advising the present administration on the need to intervene and assist small scale business owners to grow their businesses.In creating a viable economic growth to the State,the SME plays a key role and with the experience of Mrs.Amba,one will only be confident that the state is on the verge of experiencing a great revolution because most of the youths in the state shall be meaningfully engaged for a bright future.

Interestingly,since her appointment by Governor Udom Emmanuel and subsequent assumption of office,the Directorate of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in the state has been faced with beehive of activities on daily basis.She is one great leader who supports entrepreneurs in Akwa Ibom State for sustainability and growth.On several occasions,she has given supportive role to entrepreneurs in establishing businesses of their dreams and also playing a vital role in helping their businesses to survive and strive effectively to help boost the economy of the State.

Chief Mrs Janet Amba in the discharge of her duties as an Aide to the State Chief Executive also plays a mentoring role in ensuring Akwa Ibom youths are meaningfully engaged and gainfully employed in the private sector.She is an embodiment of great virtue,a composition of fine attributes and a woman of great intellect which has placed her as one of the successful women of all times in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.Indeed, Governor Udom Emmanuel made a right choice in the appointment of this great woman to support the Completion Agenda.

With Mrs.Janet Amba in the saddle,the small and medium scale enterprise in Akwa Ibom State shall have a turnaround because of her vast experience and competence.She is a square peg in a round hole.

... Warns Buhari's Aide, Others Against inciting comments and violence

Governor Udom Emmanuel has dismissed the current report by the National Bureau of Statistics NBS, which listed Akwa Ibom state as second highest in unemployment rate to ignorance.

Mr. Emmanuel who made the remark on Sunday while fielding questions from the citizens during his routine interactive media session, questioned how the NBS arrived at its rating when people are being employed in different sectors of the economy including Agriculture and Aviation and even in private businesses.

He challenged the NBS to come face to face with him and explain the way they came about the data and arrived at their conclusion, stressing that he may be forced to use the state government statisticians to prove them wrong.

"But our own statistics is for planning and not for political reasons. Akwa Ibomites should ignore that report. As at today, we have launched over 18 new industries in the State and if you check very well, every local government you go to today in Akwa Ibom State is a construction site.

“Those casual workers earn a minimum of 4,000,00 naira a day and they work six days a week, you multiply that by four weeks in a month.

"Even in our medical services, I inherited over one hundred doctors and over the past four years we have increased it to more than four hundred doctors, is that not employment?

“Do you know how many direct and indirect workers we have in Ibom Air? We are even employing people from other states. Let me tell you, in a period like this the fastest way to stimulate the economy and promote sustainability is an investment in infrastructure.

“I am glad to announce to you that our toilet paper factory we started during the COVid-19 lockdown has been completed. I am going to declare it open during our 33rd-anniversary celebration.

"We have also re-worked and improved the plastic factory in terms of quality and capacity. Also, find out the people being employed in the hospitality businesses across the state.

He said some of the hospitality concerns employed as much as 250 personnel and also added that some new industries, like the vehicle assembling and manufacturing factory in the state, are making progress.

"What then do they call employment? I want to be corrected. I know some of these things can be attributed to ignorance.

"How can you talk about statistics in Nigeria when you don’t even know the population of the states. I am ready for an open debate. Let them come and show me the statistics they computed”

"I am not saying we are there yet in terms of employment, but we are better off than what we met on ground. It is wrong to say that we are worse off. No we are not."

He used the opportunity to caution the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Ita Enang against making inciteful remarks against his government.

He advised Enang to instead seek ways to attract federal presence and even personal investments to support the economy of the state, saying, “Someone like Ita Enang is busy insulting the governor but cannot even attract the federal government to the Calabar-Itu road that passes across his village. He has not built a single kilometer of road. If he claims to be at the center, he should be able to use that position to attract development, and not seeking to destroy our state.

" When he talks about education, how many schools have the Federal government given him money to renovate in the state? I am not against criticism, but be constructive in your criticism and do not create undue tension in the state.

"We may use him as example to others if he keeps on this way. Use your connection with the center to attract goodwill to the state”

"In the last 15 years, no one can see a law chambers he as a lawyer has opened to employ a single staff, he has not opened a kiosk anywhere or even a tailoring shop to engage one person, but runs his mouth on the internet every day, insulting the Governor.

"If Ita Enang wants to contest as Governor, he should go and pick a form and contest and stop inciting our youths to violence", he added.

The Governor for the umpteenth time assured Akwa Ibom people that he will not impose a successor on them, and appealed to them to ensure that no cultist was permitted to take over the state as his successor.

He cautioned the people that if they desired the peace he has worked so hard to maintain in the state, they must carefully avoid voting a cultist into office as the next governor of the state.

“For this peace to continue to reign and for Christ to have control, then you must not vote a cultist to succeed me as Governor. I am not interested in third term through a surrogate only thing you can help do is to ensure that no cultist is allowed to emerge Governor of the state.

“The only way to ensure lasting in state peace is to further make a way to eradicate cultism. You have to embrace peace. Some cult groups are clashing in some parts of the state and we will stop at nothing to ensure we crush them.
“it is not our intention to deploy soldiers to volatile areas, but they are forcing us to do so. please let parents talk to their children, they gain nothing from cultism. it is time to go the right way” the governor said.

The Governor also warned youths against taking the laws into their hands, and advised that negotiations remain the best approach towards airing grievances.

Youths of Mkpat Enin and Eastern Obolo should be warned that we would no longer tolerate any situation where they take to the streets to block economic activities.

Mr Emmanuel said that he instructed the security agents not to take any action against them but warned that henceforth, any such action in any part of the state will be fully resisted and culprits arrested and made to face the law.


Media Unit
Govt House, Uyo
24/08/20

Only those who do not know the person of Governor Udom Emmanuel will be unable to tell how resolute he is in his bid to correct the odds in the State.
The State helmsman who has been at the fore of advocating for peace, fairplay and humanness, has constantly harped on the need to do things right across boards.

In the buildup to the forthcoming Local government and Councillorship election, the State Leader at the swearing in of board members and Chairmen yesterday, made a passionate call for peace and sanity in the system, and called for the abolishing of fetish oaths in the quest for loyalty.
"No one will say that as a Chairman or member of the board, the Governor has given him any oath to remain loyal. The era of this has passed away in the State".
"If you decide to do such for anybody in this local government election, you're on your own and you'll be disqualified. Let us take these things away. I don't know what people benefit from it. Are you God? Why would you do such for loyalty?Are you loyal yourself even to your maker? You're not loyal to your maker; one who created you, gives you life and sustains you everyday, yet you try to impose and force loyalty on another person so that if he/she does not do so, they die. What will you gain from it? Let us stop it! We can all stand here and a person wins an election, what was not meant to be, won't be. So let's just live a decent and normal life and leave all these fetish oath taking".
It would be recalled that the Governor had warned against the fetish act of oath taking and cultism in the State, while stressing on the uselessness of such.
"I've seen people in this country who started as Deputy Governor to Governor, to Vice President and President but never stood for an election. It has happened. Someone has been Governor without being to the Primaries. He was called by the court to be Governor. So we should learn from it. Let us keep sanity in the system. We can do the things differently. Things have changed", he stressd.
In his resolve not to interfere with the election, Governor Emmanuel explained that he was only concerned about the ALGON Chairman, whom he has a right to choose.
"I stood here and said that we'll take power back to the people. When you see me stepping in, its when people want to ignore justice and what should be done right. The only one I've done as my right as Governor, is to appoint the ALGON Chairman and I don't think anybody should challenge that. It's the full right of the Governor to choose the ALGON Chairman because of coordinating. I've heard people complaining and I'll have to make this public that I too have the right to vote in this LG Election and my vote goes to who's the ALGON Chairman. Whoever that falls on, let that Local Government just allow my vote to stand. They shouldn't challenge my vote please, so that we can work together for the benefit of all". This is no doubt an attempt to allow peace prevail and give back power to the people as he rightly puts it. One can only hope that the people to which these opportunities are given will be grateful enough first, to appreciate the Governor's neutrality and second, to choose wisely.
As earlier, established, Governor Emmanuel's pragmatic approach to leadership remains resolute. And will only be best felt when all hands come on deck to ensure lasting effectiveness. A situation where things are kept in the right perpsctive by the government but neglected by its users usually renders government's efforts insignificant.

Lamenting this lack of maintenance culture and negligence to public properties, the Governor expressed worry at the rate of infrastructural decay in schools.
"We counted not less than 1000 projects we've done so far but its as if we've not even done a scratch because of decay overtime. We've put in so much and it's as if you've not done anything. So, its something we need to rehabilitate over time. We went round equipping some technical schools as model technical schools with computers, today, I don't know what has happened. A lot of them complained that those things have all been stolen. So, its extremely difficult for us to develop the way we want to if we cannot protect our assets. All of those things we did, I've gotten reports that they've all been stolen, by who? And these schools have PTA so, even if the parent don't take interest in their wards, government alone cannot do everything. The parents, students, government, the society, the school, all of us are stakeholders".

Obviously, a cry for concern from a burdened heart, this call must be received by all and sundry, and acted upon for the collective good of the State.
However discouraging the feedback from the public gets, the state Chief Executive has remained undaunted in his bid to better the lots of the State, particularly as it pertains to empowering the civil servants for greater productivity.

"I've been accused by labour that I've be paid so much attention to civil service and they're beginning to be jealous about it. You'll see the kind of training we're giving them now from level 10-17. We've taken the experts to come and teach them and they're going through those leadership training batch by batch so that we can have a very productive civil service".
"We believe that they will reciprocate this by changing the order, structure, social orientation, attitude and everything of the society. No society can progress if people are not there so we need to reshape the minds of the people towards the direction we're going and we believe a lot of encouragement will come from the people", he said.

The onus is now on the civil servants to deliver on the expectations required of them in the betterment of the workforce.
To say the Governor is working without getting it right on our roles in the script of governance is incomplete. No one exists or survives in isolation. We therefore ought to take responsibility for the assets around us, help keep an eye on them for our own lasting benefit. By this, we will be complementing governments efforts by helping to channel resources to other pressing needs. This is the message Dakkada preaches!

Over the years, Africa as a whole has been crawling on its knees educationally due to little or no attention to quality education. Government at the Federal level has been consistently accused of poor appropriation towards resuscitating the suffocated educational system, bad policies, poor support towards research and inadequate manpower.

The resultant effect has been the annual exodus of our best brains to overseas popularly refered to as the brain drain syndrome and patronizing of foreign schools by the rich in society while our schools are left unattended to and a dumping ground for those considered to be poor in society.

However, there are some exceptions as some schools have tried to live up to the expectation of its founding fathers. But the question of unemployability has been a major bane of societal underdevelopment as most graduates can hardly transmogrify the knowledge gained in school to benefit the society.

This became a great concern to Gov. Udom Emmanuel who since the inception of his administration has made quality education a pivotal focus in the completion agenda. This informs why he has embarked on over 1000 projects in schools across the state, plus equipping of many schools with computers and science facilities and creating of enabling environment for academic excellence.

In his recent comment on this subject, Gov. Udom Emmanuel noted with dismay that his greatest concern is the greatest challenge of Nigeria in particular and Africa in general, which is not employment but education.

He noted that the day Nigeria takes education to its right direction, unemployment would be a thing of the past.

In order to fix the educational system to what it should be, especially in the area of churning out employable graduates, Gov. Emmanuel has sought for the wealth of experiences of educationists and professors who are Akwa Ibom indigenes to come up with workable plan and curricular that would make our graduates employable, as it is done in developed countries of the world. This think tank made up of academic dons are to work in line with the Federal Government curricular for education coupled with their experiences so far to fashion out educational policies that would students compete with those from the Asian Tigers.

This is the first of its kind in the history of the state, and has been seen by stakeholders as the best thing that has ever happened to Akwa Ibom State education wise.

Beyond this effort towards remodeling our education system, the concern of Governor Emmanuel also include the need for teachers to be trained and retrained for effective service delivery. This he has addressed through his administration's policy of employing only qualified teachers in schools. According to the Governor, the work of a teacher is not only to teach and impart knowledge, but also to be able to impart character and good attitudes on the pupils inorder to influence society positively which would equally lead to100 percent abolition of cultism in our tertiary institutions.

Furthermore, to achieve our dream of quality education at all levels, education stakeholders according to the Governor must ensure that facilities provided by Government are preserved to stand the test of time. The Governor equally lamented about poor maintenance culture that has robbed most schools of equipment provided by the government. He called on Parents Teachers Association of schools, school heads, students and other stakeholders to ensure that assets provided by Government are preserved for the overall good of society.

Gov. Emmanuel who spoke at the recent swearing in of Government Appointees into different Ministries, Agencies and Parastatal debunked rumours making the rounds that he has a hand in the Local Government Primaries in the state, re-emphasizing that he doesn't interfere with such issues.

The governor reiterated his commitment towards returning power to the people through democratic practices at both the local government and state levels.

(c) Richard Peters

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, has called on the Federal Government to formulate policies that will unbundle the oil and gas sector for increased job opportunities and economy growth in the country.

Governor Emmanuel made the call on Friday, during his interaction with the Minister of State Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, who led the Board members of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) on a courtesy visit at the Executive Council Chamber, Government House, Uyo.

He described the visit as strategic, explaining that with the availability of International airport, 21 storey smart building, excellent security, good network of roads and other infrastructure, the state has been repositioned as a strategic logistic center.

The Governor pointed out that Akwa Ibom State sits on 25% of oil and gas reserve and deserves a petroleum depot to regig the state economy and open up job opportunities for the youths.

"...this issue of modular refineries or petrochemicals should be totally liberated from whatever could be the bottlenecks to create employment and stimulate a whole lot of economic activities, so I believe that even if NNPC as a group can support this it will help our economy to grow", he explained.

He appealed to the team to look into the vast untapped opportunities in the oil and gas sector with a view to unbundling it for job and wealth creation and thanked the Minister of State Petroleum Resources and his team for the choice of Akwa Ibom State for the Oil and Gas Retreat

“we are so lucky Hon. Minister and Board members of NNPC that you brought your conference to Akwa Ibom, you are actually at the right place, sitting on the real oil and gas so much can be done and this does not need federal government money but a little policy formulation then the economy will improve”, he stated .

Earlier, the Minister of State Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva and leader of the delegation had said that they were in the state to seek collaboration for the revamping of refineries and assured that the Port Harcourt refinery would be rehabilitated within the first quarter of next year.

"myself and the team went to River State to look at the Port Harcourt refinery, we have promised this country that we will rehabilitate at least one of these refineries within the shortest possible time.

"...we visited the Port Harcourt refinery because the programme rehabilitation is about to begin. The EPC will be in place by the fourth quarter of this year and we hope the work on Port Harcourt refinery will start first quarter next year”, he added.

He expressed appreciation to the Governor and people of the state for the warm reception accorded him and the board members on their arrival in the state.

By Ekemini James

Every leader has his style. It is his style that sets him apart from others, and this often determines his success or failure.

A vehement determination to succeed is Governor Udom's middle name and it is easy to know. Look into his mindset, his activities as well as achievements and you won't be wrong. I won't be wrong if I call him "Udom Achiever Emmanuel."

Udom is a humanist with welfarist leaning who believes that one’s life story should be written not with pen but with impactful actions. According to an American philosopher, “the true measure of a person is in his height of ideas, the breadth of his sympathy, the depth of his convictions and the length of his patience.”

Mr. Emmanuel encapsulates all the attributes above. He is the only Governor in Nigeria who within few months in office launched an audacious campaign tagged ''Dakkada philosophy" in view of attitudinally, psychologically, mentally and morally awakening a new consciousness on the part of the people, especially the youths to tap into their inner souls and appropriate the latent talents and gifts God has embedded in them.

So far, the people of the State have risen to the faith of their greatness inline with the Governor's magical creed which has changed the psyche of Akwa Ibom people for good and in actualisation of their potentials. The youths, women, elders and all across the social spectrum are now using the works of their hands to make a living for themselves.

Governor Emmanuel has recorded tremendous achievements in all facets of governance. The pace of infrastructural and socio- economic developments witnessed in the last five years of his administration has been phenomenal. These epoch-making achievements are visible across the state. With unrivalled infrastructural engagements and superlative human capacity developments, the Governor has laid a solid foundation for sustainable socio-economic progress in the State.

Akwa Ibom under Governor Udom Emmanuel is a benchmark in Aviation and maritime development. Commissioned on June 7, 2019, Ibom Air today with four aircrafts is reported to have airlifted over 50,000 passengers within 100 days of operations. The project has placed Akwa Ibom State on the international business pedestal, boost the state’s corporate image and heightened her perception as a true highly rated industrial destination. In addition, Governor Emmanuel is upgrading the infrastructure at the state-owned Victor Attah International Airport including overhauling of the hanger, building an international terminal and taxiway etc.

In agriculture, the Governor is aggressively investing in the sector in view of reviving as well as sustaining the state's economy for a post Covid-19 era. As a leader, who thinks beyond oil, tomatoes cultivation is getting a boost with the large plantation at Ifiayong and Mbiakong Communities in Uruan LGA. Currently, over 108,000 tomatoes seedlings are being transplanted from the nursery to the beds with expected yield projected for the next two months. The target for the AKEES proponents, is 100 hectares of tomatoes field, with only seven so far reached.

The agricultural revolution orchestrated by this administration which includes Akwa Prime Hatchery with 540,000 day old chicks per month, Coconut Plantation of 640,000 hectares, Cocoa Plantation - 500,000 seedlings, Cassava Plantation of 800 hectares across the state, Oil Palm- 400,000 seedlings being raised across the state, distribution of 1000 bags of special cocoa fertilizers for optimal yield, extension of technical advisory services to about 350 fish farms in the state etc. Our state today is fast becoming the agricultural hub of the Nation and youths are now farming with swag. These could only be possible with a leader with a Midas touch.

These achievements, are in line with the Governor’s initiative of returning people to the farm for employment generation and enhancement of food sufficiency in the state. His administration policy thrust and leadership model is to grow agriculture as a business and not as a developmental project or part time job.

Indeed, the global financial crisis caused by covid-19 pandemic requires that we look inwards. Governor Emmanuel is executing people oriented projects in view of boosting our revenue. He has put state development, individual growth and progress at the centre stage of his administration. He is doing finishing touches on his Five-point agenda of job creation, poverty alleviation, wealth creation, economic and political inclusion, and infrastructural consolidation which are by extension taking the State on the journey to becoming the Industrial hub of the Gulf of Guinea.

Governor Emmanuel's innovative leadership style has positively showcased Akwa Ibom to the world. His numerous unbeatable legacies in the health sector; undiluted effort and creative ideas towards curtailing the spread of Coronavirus disease is highly commendable. He has embarked on rehabilitation of secondary health facilities across the state with such energy and consistency that baffled even his critics.

Again, the uniqueness of Emmanuel's administration is the sustained peace upon the state which has transcended into every sector and has also attracted investors to the state. Today, Akwa Ibom is referred to as Nigeria's peace model state due to the peaceful disposition of Governor Udom Emmanuel. This rightly endorses the popular adage , " where there is a man of peace there must be peace."

Indeed, Governor Emmanuel's achievements are too numerous to chronicle. He has demonstrated capacity and he is a good example of what leadership should represent.

By Kpebo Thomas

The Akwa Ibom State Government has vowed to sanction Principals bent on collecting illegal fees from students to frustrate her free and compulsory education policy in the State.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Education Monitoring, Mrs. Idongesit Etiebet disclosed this to newsmen shortly after monitoring the West African Senior School Certificate Examinations ( WASSCE) in public secondary schools in Ikot Ekpene and Obot Akara Local Government Areas to check their compliance with Covid-19 guidelines.

"Education in Akwa Ibom State is free and compulsory. There are reports of charges by some Principals and such charges are completely illegal. On Saturday, the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Enobong Mbobo, met with all Principals and intimated them that there are pockets of report on illegal charges. She advised Principals to cease charging students if they do, and also warned them that any further report will lead to sanction of the school's Principal."

"The Government of Governor Udom Emmanuel is not in support of it and sanctions will apply. As Monitors, we advise Principals to adhere strictly to the directive of the Government and the motherly plea of the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Enobong Mbobo. As she told them on Saturday, some Principals will be sanctioned if such report gets to the government, as no Principal has the right to charge any fee from any student." Etiebet explained.

She thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel for his conscious effort to ensure students write their WASSCE despite the Covid-19 pandemic. She listed provision of face masks, infrared thermometers, hand-washing kits, sanitizers, among others, as measures of the state Government to curb the spread of covid-19 in schools.

Etiebiet noted that she would rate Governor Emmanuel high on his effort to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the State as schools are still taking additional deliveries of materials from the State Government.

The Governor's aide noted that WASSCE fees, mathematical sets and other examination materials provided to all SS3 students in the State are free courtesy of the Akwa Ibom state Government.

She commended the Governor for deploying all his Aides to monitor compliance with the Nigerian Center for Disease Control (NCDC) guidelines across schools in the State.

Also speaking, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Education Monitoring, Akparawa Udeme Udofia expressed satisfaction with the level of compliance with covid-19 guidelines in examination halls in the two Local Government Areas visited.

Udofia noted that WASSCE officials reported to schools and all schools visited today made adequate provision for students and the examination to be conducted properly according to the guidelines.

On her part, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Education Monitoring, Dr. Sarah Esitikot, said parents should ensure that their wards are well equipped with necessary examination materials.

"I know that WASSCE examination started today but some students would have missed writing their examination because they did not have basic things like pen with them. Parents should prepare their wards and check their examination materials before they leave to school".

She advised Principals and teachers not to relent in enforcing covid-19 guidelines in the school premises and to improve where necessary.

By Abasiama Etukakpan

Business Mogul and Political administrator,Pastor Nseobong George has thrown his hat in the ring to contest for the position of Executive Chairman,Oruk Anam Local Government Area in the forthcoming polls.Pastor George needs not much of introduction in the today's leadership lexicon.A business man with proven integrity who has made laudable achievements in the private sector for over a decade.He has been tested and trusted in times past in leadership position and management of resources which is why many people are interested in signing a social contract in leadership with the Oruk Anam born business doyen in the next Chairmanship elections.

Whether one likes it or yes,Oruk Anam Local Government Area has been faced with myriad of challenges especially in leadership.The people have been crying for a leader with foresight and track records that will transform the area into an eldorado it proudly deserves to be.For over a decade now,one of Nigeria's oldest and biggest Local Government Areas can't boast of any visible achievements or project courtesy of the government at the grassroot.It has become business as usual for past Chairmen to complain of lack of funds to execute any life touching project but it is laughable hearing this in times past.Tenures after tenures,leaders will assume and leave office with no tangible achievements in the council area even to grade roads or provide some social amenities which the primary function of the local government administration.

On hearing the news that the seasoned gentleman,Pastor Nseobong George who has carved a niche for himself in the private sector and in the business world is interested to salvage his people from mal-administration,it gives hope that the glory days in Oruk Anam Local Government Area shall be back when the five star gentleman takes over the mantle of leadership by the special grace of God.Pastor George is a successful business man who has held leadership positions right from his days as Student Leader,between 2014/2015 at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology,(ESUT),MSP Chapter where he made Akwa Ibom State proud.In his days as Student Union Government President, even as a non indigene,Pastor George transformed Student unionism and kept records that is unmatchable till date.His days as a Student leader transformed the tertiary institution to the place it ought to be and rightly belonged.Today,the name of Pastor Nseobong George rings a bell in the minds and hearts of students at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology,MSP Chapter.His footprints are in the sands of time and history shall always remember this pragmatic gentleman for his outstanding role in very salient and life touching programmes across the length and breadth of the institution.As a student leader with foresight,he was able to set up many projects including Faculty Conference Hall and Students Common Room for relaxation in the MSP Chapter of the institution among laudable achievements.All these he achieved in partnership with multinationals to the institution,a feat that can best described as "Uncommon and Unprecedented".This feat endeared him to many across his institution of higher learning.Till date,he is like a recurring decimal in the political history of the institution.Through a "Save Our Soul Letter" he wrote to the Enugu State House of Assembly using his good office then as Students Leader,he led his executive members alongside the then Dean of Faculty of Management Sciences, Professor Fred Eze to the House of Assembly through due process which made it possible for speedy passage of a bill to finance the Movement of Faculty of Management Sciences to main campus in Agbani.Till date,his name is written boldly in gold and posterity remembers his unparalleled leadership acumen.

His imprints and mien in leadership has endeared him to many,no wonder the clarion call by many sons and daughters of Oruk Anam Local Government Area for him to vie for the position and salvage his people from mal-administration and armchair leadership increases on daily basis.As a gentleman who believes intrinsically that power comes from God and the people,he has decided to answer the call of his people,hence his aspiration to lead his people in the third tier of Government.He is not only contesting because he wants to hold power which can be said to be the reason of many aspirants,but he is aspiring because he has some laudable plans for Oruk Anam LGA if elected into office in the forthcoming polls.He believes in providing lasting security to his people, transforming the mentality of his beloved people and providing a steady stomach infrastructure which shall help engage a good number of young people out from the street and make them successful in their field of endeavours.In an area where unemployment and poverty rate is the world's capital,only a gentleman like Pastor Nseobong George with past records in Management of resources can turn things around and ensure he brings to bare his wealth of experience from the private sector.He is one gentleman that shall lead over five thousand youths of Oruk Anam Local Government Area from the alarming unemployment situation in the area and give them a sustainable livelihood and source of income.Of course,he is not a politician and he won't say this to patronize anybody but these are his plans for his fathersland.He is most fit and qualified in all ramifications to take over the helm of affairs in Oruk Anam Local Government Area.

Interestingly,the Oruk Anam Chairmanship hopeful is the first aspirant to have purchased his nomination form which clearly demonstrated his readiness for service and to give his people the leadership they have yearned for in the past years. He is favoured by zoning and has a wide acceptance from the people who believes he has a lot to offer in the Local Government Area as Council Boss when elected.According to him, leadership is inborn and he has always yearned to give his people transformational leadership and give back to the society.His philosophy about leadership is to give him to his people and ensure that all sectors of the economy in Oruk Anam Local Government Area is touched and improved through good ideas and inputs.

A Master's degree holder in Management and various other educational backings.The fine gentlemen believes in equipping himself for the task ahead,he is not satisfied with his current academic qualification which is why he is currently studying for a Ph.D in Management at the University of Nigeria, NSUKKA.His intimidating credentials will be hard to be ignored by the good people of Oruk Anam Local Government Area in complementing the leadership philosophy of Governor Udom Emmanuel who believes that, "before you hold any public office, you must have something to offer".Pastor Nseobong George has a lot to offer in leadership and his rich credentials speaks volume of his personality and pedigree in today's leadership.Apart from his rich and intimidating credentials,he is favoured by zoning in the current political arrangement in Oruk Anam Local Government Area.He hails from Ikot Ibritam village,a community that houses the Council Headquarters and Secretariat of the Local Government.Sadly,the Community despite years of support, maintainance of peace,law and order has been marginalized in political arrangement in times past.It is on record that no son or daughter of Oruk Anam Local Government Area from Ikot Ibritam Community has ever held public office either as Council Chairman,Vice Chairman or even Secretary of Council since the creation of the area for over thirty one years(31) now.The perceived marginalization has caused many to throw their weight behind Pastor Nseobong George because his wealth of experience and competence shall be implemented in the Oruk Anam leadership in recognition of the zoning arrangement in the area away from the norm.

Pastor Nseobong George is not a conventional politician who believes that politics is a do-or-die affair,he believes that the wish of his people surpasses his personal wish and interest which has made him to have his people in mind and hopes to change the narrative of leadership if given an opportunity.He is coming into leadership with a burning anger to turn things around in the area and transform lives which has been his interest from time immemorial.He has been able to impact of the lives of his people positively in his private life and if given an opportunity to serve the public,one will only be confident that Oruk Anam Local Government Area is gradually on the path of greatness with Pastor Nseobong George in the saddle of leadership.

Humble and Accessible, Pastor Nseobong George has worked as a General Manager at COLBON FOTO INDUSTRY and currently he is the Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of NSEGOS INDUSTRY LIMITED,also KOOLPRINT MEDIA/FOTO LAB,in Enugu, Nigeria,a company that has been of great support to Nigeria's economy and has helped in curtailing unemployment in Nigeria's labour market.He is well travelled, exposed and trained in leadership. happily married with amazing children.Pastor Nseobong George has received countless awards and accolades for his examplary leadership style.He has never been found wanting in the discharge of his duties in the past and this can be ascertained by security experts.He is a member of professional organizations across Nigeria such as,Fellow, Institute of Industrialists and Corporate Administrators.He is coming to salvage his people and to bring Government closer to his people at the grassroot where it proudly deserves to be.He is a seasoned administrator, a Philanthropist and a successful business man with proven integrity and outstanding records.


Oruk Anam Local Government Area,here is your son.!

..... as Our farms NG holds field day for Entrepreneurs

By MefLyN Anwana

Better days are indeed here for farms in Akwa Ibom state, as a drone revolution births in the state, pioneered by JOSEG ROBOTICS, a technology start-up based in Akwa Ibom State. The tech start-up has successfully built aerial robotics (UAV or Drone) and AG sensor drones that can assess Normalized difference vegetation index (NDVA) which interprets farm data to decide which farm areas require attention. In a recent demonstration at the “OurFarms NG” field day, the indigenous tech start-up showed that farm inputs such as fertilizer, herbicides and pesticides could be applied with the aid of drones. And what’s better? The drones are locally fabricated and best adapted to indigenous weather conditions.
At the field day demonstration, I commended the local start-up for their innovation, noting that aerial robotics are indeed the future of agriculture. Drones, more formally known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UASs) essentially are flying robots that can be remotely controlled or flown autonomously through software-controlled flight plans in their embedded systems, working in conjunction with onboard sensors and GPS. In the past, drones were mostly associated with the military, where they were used for anti-aircraft target practices, intelligence gathering and more controversially as weapons platforms. However, drones have recently been deployed to civilian and of course more productive uses, namely: search and rescue, surveillance, traffic monitoring, weather monitoring, firefighting, photography, agriculture, amongst others.
With indigenous firms like JOSEG ROBOTICS venturing into the production and fabrication of these drones, (which will ensure local sourcing, availability and technical support services), Agropreneurs in AkwaIbom are set to explore new ways that will yield great returns in the overall.According to the food and agriculture organization of the united nations (FAO), the usefulness of drones in agriculture cannot be overemphasized. In an article by the business insider, quoted on the FAO website, the uses enumerated include mapping, crop-dusting, spraying amongst others.

Away from drones, the Our Farm.NG’s first field day, whichheld on the 28th of July 2020 was a rare opportunity for field goers to see firsthand, the fields and different crops cultivated by Our Farm at Ikot Uso community, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The field goers were taken through the fields of 4.3 hectares’ plantain farm intercropped wiith Egusi, corn and cassava. We were also shown a 3 hectares’ land, prepared for a fully functional integrated farm to be launched in the last quarter of the year.

Speaking at the field day, Idorenyin Essiet, the farm managershared the vision of “Our Farm.NG” and its Co-Founders (Uzoma Azumara and Emeka Anoliefo) which he said would leverage on the business of agriculture, to not only create wealth for its partners and investors, but to improve the quality of lives in the ruralcommunities by supporting them in 3 critical areas namely:Education, Health and Provision of basic social amenities.

Commendations were given to the Governor Udom Emmanuel’s administration for placing premium on food sufficiency & driving sustainable development through agriculture. In the words of Idorenyin Essiet, “the recent enumeration of Farmers in the State will go a long way in exploring aggregators with the availability of big Data”. Essiet also highlighted the need for cross sectoral collaboration by the Private sector to engage agric business in the state and encouraged youth involvement in the sector.


Clearly, the adoption of modern technologies in agriculture, such as the use of ag sensor drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to determine the NDVI (Normalised Difference vegetation index) of any farm can significantly enhance risk anddamage assessments and revolutionize the way Africa prepares for and responds to disasters that impacts Agric Business via precision farming. It is indeed heartwarming to see that AkwaIbom Entrepreneurs like JOSEC ROBOTICS and Ourfarm.NG are rising to the faith of their greatness, gearing up to engage a broad spectrum of engagements in the Agric Value Chain.

by Richard Peters

These firm words from Jerry Dorsman that "When you see the world through serene eyes, you generate peace wherever you go", can perfectly describe what is happening in Akwa Ibom State. Peace has come to stay because a man who knows how to generate peace from the original source (God) is at the helms of affairs.

There is absolute tranquility in the land. There's focused and purposeful progress in the state. People can now sleep with their two eyes closed, and this peace transcends to other strata of government, including the traditional institution.

The reason for the peace that everyone is enjoying is as a result of Gov. Emmanuel's Unique leadership style which is God-driven. He has made God to be the first in his life and the resultant effect is the overall peace in every facet of government in the state. No wonder he often refers to the Holy Bible as his number one book of leadership, which depicts the source of his inspiration.

When he assumed leadership in 2015, he didn't meet a crisis-free state, but today crisis has been reduced to its minimum, war quashed and rebellion suppressed. This is so because a man who is an embodiment of peace has chosen to generate that peace to all and sundry.

Today, one can boldly say that the People's Democratic Party (PDP) is peaceful. The recent peaceful transition of power to another EXCO is a testimony that peace has come to stay.

The party has been able to conduct its affairs peacefully, zoning formula respected, with peaceful conduct of congresses and party primaries.

During the 2019 elections, crises were visible in many states of the federation as a result of the conduct of party primaries which led to several litigations that even stopped some parties from filing candidates for the election. But in Akwa Ibom, such is unheard of because the leader of the party in the state is a carrier of peace.

How he does it, no one knows. How he has been able to bring oneness into the party, no one can explain. How he has been able to make everyone speak in unison is still a mystery. But one thing is certain, his leadership style is unique, and the wisdom is from above.

This excellent leadership styl of inclusiveness made the National Chairman of the People's Democratic Party, Uche Secondus to pour glowing tribute on the governor, and commended his style of leadership and the spirit of unity that has swept through all aspects of life in the state.

The recent appointment of Sen. Udoma Udo Udoma, a member of the APC, as Pro-Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) is a testament of his peaceful and unbiased leadership style. It's rare, especially in Africa for such sensitive office to be given to a member of the opposition party. This goes a long way to show that Gov. Emmanuel is unsentimental, a symbolism of excellent leadership.

Before now, the traditional institution was one leadership cadre that was known for war and tension. To choose a village head, clan head or Paramount ruler was always a tug of war. But today, the peace flowing from the leadership belly of the governor has touched the traditional stool, and peace is circulated everywhere just like electricity from the national grid.

However, the generation of peace throughout the state is equally made possible through the quality of leaders that Gov. Emmanuel has appointed into his administration. He has carefully positioned competent leaders to man different positions, an action that was hitherto influenced by greed and selfish desire to reward political support with appointment, even when they don't have what it takes to function in such office.

His appointees are basically people with proven integrity, creativity, intimidating pedigrees and strong desire to leave a lasting mark on the sand of time.

No wonder the Bible recorded that when the righteous is on the throne, the people rejoice. The joy we are experiencing today is as a result of the peaceful coexistence among leaders in the state, and you already know the principle: It flows from the head to the skirt. Such is a flourishing leadership style and it is marvelous in our eyes.

Press Statement

The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Uche Secondus, has described the governor of Akwa-Ibom state, Governor Emmanuel Udom, as a pride of the party, going by his provision of democratic dividends for the people of his state in all sectors of life.

Secondus, who spoke at the commissioning of the 1000-seater conference hall and a state of the art secretariat of the party in Uyo, Akwa-Ibom state at the weekend, stressed that the achievements of PDP governors across board, underscores the provision of leadership in their respective states.

According to the party Chairman, “if our country has the right leadership, infrastructure will work and, as said in the bible, when the righteous is on the throne, the people rejoice.

Prince Secondus noted that, “wherever one turns in PDP states, you will find exemplary achievements as we have come to witness in Akwa-Ibom state today.

“The governors of PDP states are the reason for governance in Nigeria today because they are working in the interest of the people and they are achieving results.

“I therefore commend Governor Udom, one of the best of our best, for his achievements and for showcasing to the world that the PDP government is working”.

Secondus also commended the out-going state Chairman of the party, Obong Paul Ekpo, for a superlative performance in leading the activities of the party in Akwa-Ibo state.

He said in the cause of Obong Ekpo’s eight years duty as state chairman, he delivered the PDP in every election and resisted intruding opposition from destroying the legacies of our party in Akwa-Ibom.

Speaking at the thanksgiving service held at the Apostolic Church in honour of Obong Ekpo, also attended by the Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, Governor Udom said the outgoing chairman delivered every assignment with love, honesty, justice and fairness.

He assured Ekpo that his contributions to the development of the PDP will not be in vain and expressed hope that now that all the members of the party are extolling his achievements for a service to all, when the time comes to reward him, nobody will expose it.

Dignitaries at the event include members of the National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, National Executive Committee of the party, members of the National Assembly

Signed:

Kola Ologbondiyan
National Publicity Secretary

.....Promises to lead an administration with a "human face"

Obong Udo Ekpenyong has been elected as the new state chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Akwa Ibom State Chapter with 3,840 votes at the just concluded PDP state congress. Obong Ekpenyong, who is the immediate past Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, will be succeeding Obong Paul Ekpo.

The PDP congress, which was adjudged peaceful and transparent by both national officials of the party and INEC delegates, held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium and over 3,845 accredited delegates from the 31 local government chapters of the party.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Ekpenyong noted that his election is a clarion call on himself and the newly elected state Exco to take the party to an enviable height through a sustained partnership with all stakeholders of the party, promising to lead an all-inclusive party.

“Going forward, and speaking for myself, my sole objective on this arduous task of leading our party is to promote everything PDP in the state and nationally; through political inclusion, wide consultations, sustained dialogue, and enduring partnerships.

“On my honour, I shall give our Party the human face that makes it the power of the people. Let me reaffirm the need for loyalty to our Party. Under our watch, special emphasis will be placed on this fundamental political virtue”.

Mr. Ekpenyong appreciated the state leader of the party and governor, His Excellency Udom Emmanuel for his benevolence and support, assuring that under his leadership, the party will continue to provide a strong support for the government.

Governor Udom Emmanuel, while addressing the Congress, congratulated the outgone Paul Ekpo led administration for bringing the party this far, noting that the PDP in Akwa Ibom is a model of party politics is the country. The governor also congratulated Mr. Udo Ekpenyong and the newly elected Exco on their deserving elevation.

He advised members of the newly elected Executive Committee of the PDP in Akwa Ibom State to make good the trust reposed on them through the election by remaining faithful to the party at all times.

©OFFICE OF THE PUBLICITY SECRETARY ELECT.

By Mfonobong Ukpong

As part of the post Covid19 economic activities of the Governor Udom Emmanuel led administration, the government is poised to boost tomato availability in the state with a weekly harvest of over 100,000 tomatoes beginning from the third week of August this year.

Already, about 108,000 tomato seedlings plantation is currently being cultivated on 7 hectares of farmland at Ifiayong and Mbiakong communities in Uruan local government area of the state.

Speaking with newsmen, Tuesday at the tomato farmland, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Technical Matters and Co-ordinator of the project Mr. Ufot Ebong explained that he got a marching order from the Governor to ensure that Tomato cultivation which began in 2016 with a pilot programme was mass cultivated across the 10 federal constituencies in the state.

Ebong further explained that the idea behind the new Tomato plantation at Ifiayong was to ensure that the state is self sufficient in tomato production and to make it available for local and international market.

"During the lockdown we realized we were able to feed ourselves because of the food sufficiency programme of the Governor.

"What we are doing here is to perfect what we started in 2016 in terms of cultivating 22 different types of vegetable.

"We will transplant this tomato seedlings from the Nursery here to the farm which is being prepared as you can see the bed making in preparation for tomatoes cultivation of 108,000 seedlings of tomatoes".

A Supervisor working at the plantation, Idongesit Eshiet who is a graduate of Agric Economics and Extension, hailed Governor Udom Emmanuel for his commitment in ensuring food security and availability in the state.

"I used to assume that tomato production was exclusively for the North, but to the glory of God, His Excellency through Ufot Ebong has changed that mentality.

"Few days from now we will transplant the tomato seedlings. What I'm doing here has really added value to me. A lot of people travel out of this state to do this bed tilling in the North".

In every week from the third week of August they will be harvesting over a 100,000 tomatoes. It is a continuous cycle.

By Umani Uwemedimo

I grew up having great passion for football, though I knew it was never going to be possible for me to have a career in the sport.

At childhood, what really intrigued me about this sport was Diego Maradona's controversies in the pitch each time he's frustrated. One of those controversial moments was when he insisted that what got the ball to the back of the net was not his hand but the hand of God.

Overtime, many great footballers had strived to apply same hand of God in their times of frustration and desperation but failed. They are not Diego so it can never be the hand of God. What this clearly states is the fact that if it is not Panadol, then it can never be Panadol. But today, we now have another great player in which the hand of God is imprinted in every of his doings. He is not Diego Maradona, his name is UDOM EMMANUEL.


The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel from the inception of his Administration in 2015 has recorded numerous achievements in diverse sectors that flesh and blood may never be able to comprehend if given the opportunity.


Not minding the dwindling economy, the governor has been able to put up things in places, he has built the future where generations yet unborn would be proud of. To crown it all, he has built the Akwa Ibom State of our dreams. Indeed, Udom Emmanuel is a name which against all odds will stand the sands of time.

From a 100% Civil Service State, Governor Udom has turned Akwa Ibom to an Industrial hub. He has not only fulfilled his campaign promises by making available not fewer than 22 functioning industries in the State, he has ensured that his industralization agenda for our dear State is consolidated with tight security for the safety and protection of both lives and properties. The introduction of Ibom Air with over five aircrafts on its fleet has added more prestige to the State as well as booming the State's economy.

Throughout his first tenure as Governor, Mr. Emmanuel had invested massively in youths empowerment initiatives as a means of trimming the high rate of unemployment which was almost becoming the greatest problem in the State. Through these initiatives, grants have been given out to thousands of youths who went into agriculture, business, entrepreneurial training of all kinds. Today, thousands of these youths are owners of diverse businesses and are independently doing great.

Significantly, there have been food sufficiency in Akwa Ibom State. We now have youths who are owners of cocoa, cucumber, tomato, okro, water melon, rice, etc farmlands of at least 4hectares.

The resumption of his second tenure was accorded with encomiums and ovation with the commissioning of about 43 newly constructed roads across the State as a prove that his Administration has invested hugely in infrastructural development. As at today, a total of about 1800km of roads have been completely constructed, while others are still ongoing.


At this point, one would be forced to ask how Governor Emmanuel with the availability of very lean resources is making great things done without excuses, while others are yet to boast of even a project. Indeed, there's something behind all of these.

On the 29th of May 2020, Governor Emmanuel celebrated his one year in office as a second term Governor. This one year has been tremendous as he has changed the sad narrative about Akwa Ibom State. With the construction of the State-of-the-art Infectious Disease Control Center at Ituk Mbang with up-to-date equipment is one project that has placed Akwa Ibom on the global map as an industrialized State.
With the employment of the best hands and a 24/7 medical services in the Infectious Disease Control Center, and a standard Molecular Laboratory, the World Health Organization, WHO, and the National Center For Disease Control, NCDC have ranked it the best in Nigeria and West Africa.


Again, while the Corona Virus pandemic was still hitting hard on the world which negative effect is extremely obvious, the Government of Akwa Ibom State remained unperturbed and procured a new aircraft to the already existing fleet of Ibom Air. Today, the Airline routes Abuja to Calabar and vice versa, as well as Lagos State.

Having considered the times, how others are striving to cope, and the great achievements Mr. Emmanuel has recorded thus far, I cannot agree less that indeed, the hand of God is involved in this present Administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel.



Umani Uwemedimo, a Public Affairs Analyst writes from Uyo.