₦airaland Forum

... Spotlight on 84 completed life torching projects in Eket Senatorial District

By Emmanuel Sam

It is not for fun that the Akwa Ibom State Government decided to provide a whopping #1 billion to overhaul the physical infrastructure of our educational institutions under the 2021 interministerial direct labour jobs. Research has found that learning environments play a crucial role in student success. Several factors can affect learning ability, including seating, light, noise, and even colour.

Students who study in a positive learning environment have been shown to be more motivated, engaged, and have a higher overall learning ability. On the other hand, students learning in poor environments – those that are uncomfortable, loud, or full of distractions – will find it far more difficult to absorb information and stay engaged.

The Akwa Ibom State Government is conscious of the fact that a positive classroom environment helps improve attention, reduce anxiety, and supports emotional and behavioural regulation of students because when educators foster a positive learning culture; learners are more likely to acquire higher motivation that leads to wonderful learning outcomes.

The developmental torch of the Deacon Udom Emmanuel led administration arrived Oron where twelve life touching projects were comissioned. In Methodist Primary School, Akanobio, the government reconstructed a four Classroom block, a four Classroom block was constructed at Methodist Senior Science College, Oron, a Girls Hostel at Methodist Science College Oron was renovated, a four Classroom block reconstructed at Government Primary School, Uya Oro Junction 1 and another four Classroom block reconstructed at Government Primary School, Uya Oro Junction 2.

Similarly, the Headmasters Quarters at Government Primary School, Uya Oro Junction was reconstructed, Mary Hanney Secondary School, Oron today has an eight Classroom block constructed and another four Classroom block, a four Classroom block renovated at Government Primary School, Uko Oyukim, Oron, Community Secondary School, Eyo-Abasi Oron was blessed with a four Classroom block renovated, a four Classroom block renovated at Government Primary School, Ukpata Afaha Eduok while Senior Science School, Oron witnessed the reconstruction of a four Chapel block.

In Mbo LGA, twelve projects were comissioned which include, the renovated three Classroom block at Central Primary School, Akai Ebughu, a reconstructed four Classroom block at Primary School, Uko Ital, a renovated four Classroom block at Government Primary School, Ewang, an Adminstration block at Comprehensive Secondary School, Ewang, and a reconstructed four Classroom block for Central Primary School, Akai Ebughu 2.

That's not all. A four Classroom block was reconstructed at St Leo's Primary School, Okobo Ebughu, a four Classroom block reconstructed at Primary School, Udesi Isong Inyang, a reconstructed four Classroom block at Community Secondary School, Udesi Akai Owo, three four Classroom blocks renovated at Community Secondary School, Oduo Ebughu, St Paul A Primary School, Ibaka saw a four Classroom block renovated, Primary School, Udesi Isong Inyang has a four Classroom block reconstructed whole Community Secondary School, Oduo Ebughu had a four Classroom block renovated.

Urue Offing/Oruko was blessed with ten commissioned Interministerial Direct Labour Projects. They include the reconstruction of a four Classroom block at Government Primary School, Mbukpo Uko Akai, renovation of three Classroom block at Government Primary School, Oyoku Ebighi, reconstruction of a four Classroom block at Government Primary School, Oyoku Ebighi, renovation of three Classroom block at Government Primary School, Oyoku Ebighi, renovation of two Classroom block at Government Primary School, Oyoku Ebighi, renovation of four Classroom block at Government Primary School, Oyoku Ebighi, renovation of a three Classroom block at Government Primary School, Eyulor Oro, renovation of a four Classroom block at Government Primary School, Ukuko, reconstruction of a four Classroom block at Community Secondary School, Ubodung, and the reconstruction of a four Classroom block at St Patrick's Primary School, Mbukpo Eyo Akai.

For Udung Uko LGA, St Micheal Primary School, Eyo Nsek, had a four Classroom block reconstructed, Methodist Primary School, Eyuwe/Eyosung saw the reconstruction of a four Classroom block, Government Primary School, Uboro Isong Inyang had a renovation of a four Classroom block, a three bedroom flat was renovated at Community Secondary School, Udung Uko, Community Secondary School, Udung Uko saw the renovation of a three bedroom flat, a four bedroom flat renovation took place at Primary School, Edikor, a four Classroom block renovation at Primary School, Edikor, Community Secondary School, Edikor witnessed the renovation of a four Classroom block while Government Primary School, Ekim Village are enjoying the renovation of a four Classroom block.

Five projects were comissioned in Okobo LGA. They are; a renovated four Classroom block at St Andrew's Primary School, Oti-Okobo, the reconstruction of the Corpers Lodge at St Vincent Secondary School, Oti-Okobo, renovation of a four Classroom block at St Paul Primary School, Odobo Okobo, renovation of four Classroom block at Government Primary School, Ekeya and the renovation of a four Classroom block at Government Primary School, Etta/Edu.

In Eket LGA, Government Primary School, Idung Offiong Eket had a four Classroom block at Government Primary School reconstructed, reconstruction of a four Classroom block at AME Zion Primary School, Idung Udo Eket, reconstruction of Dinning Hall at Girls High School, Ikot Ibiok Eket, reconstruction of a four Classroom block at Government Primary School, Ikot Obio Anana, Okon Eket, reconstruction of Assembly Hall and fencing of New Hostel at Girls High School, Ikot Ibiok Eket and the reconstruction of a four Classroom block at Government Primary School, Idung Imoh.

In Esit Eket LGA, a four Classroom block has been reconstructed at Secondary School Edo, Esit, a four Classroom block reconstructed at Salvation Primary School, Edo Esit Eket, Government Primary School, Etebi 1 had a four Classroom block reconstructed, same at Technical School Ikpa Esit Eket while a reconstructed four Classroom block was also commissioned at Holy Cross Lutheran Primary School, Uquo, Esit Eket.

For Mkpat Enin LGA, a four Classroom block was reconstructed at QIC Community Secondary School, Minya, another four Classroom block reconstructed at St Augustine Primary School, Ikot Ntot, a four Classroom block reconstructed at Government Primary School, Asana/Ibianga while Government Primary School, Ikot Obio Ndoho was blessed to have a four Classroom block completed and commissioned.

Talking of Ibeno LGA, Secondary Grammar School, Upenekang had a four Classroom block reconstructed, Government Primary School, Mkpanak witnessed the reconstruction of a six Classroom block while a four Science Lab Block was also reconstructed at Secondary Grammar School Upenekang.

For the people of Eastern Obolo, a four Classroom block was reconstructed at Government Primary School, Iko Town, and another four Classroom block reconstructed at Government Primary School, Okoro Mbokho.

In Onna LGA, a four Classroom block was constructed at QIC Group Atiamkpat, Government Primary School, Ntan Ide had the reconstruction of a four Classroom block, another four Classroom block was constructed at QIC Group Atiamkpat, while for Government Primary School, Ikot Akpan Nkpe/Ikot Nkanga, a two classroom block was renovated. For Government Primary School, a four Classroom block was renovated, QIC Science School, Ndon Eyo saw the renovation of an Administrative Block, a four Dinning Hall was also renovated at QIC Science School, Ndon Eyo, while QIC Group School in Ndon Eyo had a reconstructed four Classroom block commissioned.

Also, Lutheran Primary School, Nung Oku Ekanem had a four Classroom block renovated, Community Secondary School, Ikot Ebiere witnessed the construction of a four Classroom block, Government Primary School, Ikot Eko Ibon got a reconstructed four Classroom block while a reconstructed four Classroom block was commissioned at Government Primary School, Ikot Edor.

In Ikot Abasi LGA, Methodist Central School, Ette had a four Classroom block renovated, Government Primary School, Esene also witnessed the renovation of a four Classroom block, Convert Primary School, Esene had a renovated four Classroom block while a four Classroom block was also renovated and commissioned at Government Primary School, Ikot Usop.

To the Akwa Ibom State Government, the classroom environment is one of the most important factors affecting student learning as students learn better when they view the learning environment as learning and supportive. A positive environment is one in which students feel a sense of belonging, trust others, and feel encouraged to tackle challenges, take risks, and ask questions.

This explains why the focus of the 2021 Interministerial Direct Labour Jobs is on the education sector and why the Government deserves commendation for the #1billion fund injected to the sector in this regards.

cc: mynd44

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I just finished listening to the conversation between the SSG and Hon. Lado, and, with respect, I cannot help but point out that Lado impressed me as a noise maker. After endless meaningless prattling, he asked one question, “What has the state government done for security agencies that were posted?”

The SSG educated the Honorable on the many steps the state government usually takes: the Niger State Government oversees the welfare of every security agent sent to Niger state, this is all encompassing, including daily allowance, accommodation, and feeding. And this welfare covers members of the police, military and Civil Defense corps.

Further, the SSG also mentioned that there are vigilantes in all the 25 LG of Niger State whose entire operational expenses are being met by the Niger State Government.

After explaining all these to Lado, the SSG asked Lado what has he ever done in his capacity as a Member of House of Reps. as regards the security situation in the state. To this question Lado had no answer which not surprising because he has never been seen to even stand up in a sitting and talk about insecurity that is troubling his own people.

Does Lado not see the example of the likes of Sen. Sani 313 who is also from Zone B and who has on countless occasions gotten up to register his displeasure over the security situation in the state?

Why does Lado seem to only know how to talk outside the chambers where it doesn’t really matter but goes mute in the chambers where it really matters? Or is it that our Honorable doesn’t know how to speak in the English language?

As a member of House of Representatives, if you are seeking the favor of the Federal Government, it is foolhardy to think that you can achieve this objective by condemning your own state —it is a lame and childish way and suggests some kind of self-hate and inferiority complex.

Gov Abu Sani Bello specifically appreciated the effort of the Federal Government in his last security press briefing where he mentioned that the operations of the army in presence of Gen Ali-Keffi, the GOC of Kaduna Division, had led to over 30 communities returning back to home after fleeing their land because of bandits attacks.

Let’s us not play politics with the matter of security because whichever way you look at it, there is no one who would escape the grave consequences if security collapses. All hands are needed. But those who can’t offer help, at least don’t derail the efforts of genuine people interested in the safety of our people.

Dear Lado, I implore you to learn from Sen. 313 who is always up in the Upper Chamber speaking about insecurity and donating food items to all the affected communities in his Zone, not gathering N6M and sharing to thugs then lie to the public that the money is N50M. Speak out in the chambers like other people are doing and carve your name on the right side of history as a defender of your people, and not as a benefactor of thugs.

Written by Yusuf Suleja

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Re: What does Gov. Udom Emmanuel want?
A rabble rouser's view of A'Ibom governorship succession

By Ernest Idiong Esq.

In Akwa Ibom State every politically exposed person is an expert when it comes to choosing a befitting successor for the governor. He or she could go to great length to explain why this and that should happen, using every rethoric at his or her disposal to drive home a point. Some who can't openly state their opinion pay rabble rousers to do this task.

One such hatchet job is an article I read recently on an online national daily titled 'What does Gov. Udom Emmanuel want?', written by a fledgling reporter in the state. The beautifully crafted piece went on and on about succession citing few examples and hastily generalizing these as universal templates. He failed however to concede that succession is not rigidly confined to certain principles but subject to the whims of the leader. In Akwa Ibom state, for instance, we have seen that leadership is a function of style not dogma. Each leader determines what his priorities are.

I was particularly amused by the argument that Obong Attah failed to produce a successor, but his succession plan embedded in his cabinet threw up Barrister Godswill Akpabio. The writer went on to suggest that Udom has not groomed a successor from his own cabinet. This is simply preposterous and an amateurish attempt to goad the governor into divulging his mind. It would be implausible that after working with the same team for six years, a leader of Udom's stature could be scratching his head to identify who his likely successor will be. He has his style of leadership and has made it succinctly clear that he will not impose any successor on Akwa Ibom people rather he will allow God reveal this person to the people as well as himself.


Governor Emmanuel has not left his succession plan to chance as suggested by the write-up, On the contrary, he has at several fora acknowledged the importance of finding the right successor, and repeatedly expresses his faith that God Almighty who rules in the affairs of men will take the lead in this matter. This is simple enough to understand and renders unnecessary the misconception that the incumbent is not doing enoigh in that direction. The claim that Obong Attah failed to install a successor because his son-in law, Dr. Udoma Bob Ekarika was no match for Godswill Akpabio’s "enormous political assets – appeal, charisma and goodwill" is at most laughable. There is no comparison between Attah who had less than two weeks to 'install' Ekarika as a successor before the 2007 Peoples Demicratic Party (PDP) governorship primary and Udom who has no post-governorship political ambition to distract him.

For the record, Akpabio stood no chance against the incumbent in the 2007 electioneering. The odds were stacked against him on all sides. He was an appointee at the mercy of his principal; he was from the minority; he was without money. His only saving grace was that Obong Victor Attah was too engrossed in his presidential ambition to invest in pushing through his wish for his son-in-law. Akpabio's so-called 'charisma' and 'goodwil' were certainly not worth being referred to as 'political assets'.

Let me digress a bit to expatiate on these so called political assets. Former governor Godswill Akpabio's phantom charisma could not have served him if his cause as not championed by the majority ethnic group - Ibibios whom he sought to annihilate politically by making them 'an ineffective majority'. Ibibios made it happen and sustained his government. If he was so charismatic how come in 2011, when he sought a second term, there was so much intimidation, clamp down on perceived political opponents including media, bloodshed and politically motivated killings? Why did governorship aspirants from PDP lose their lives in suspicious circumstances? Some like Mr. Ini Udonwa lost his mother and so on. Why was Mr. Frank Okon wrongfully disqualified from the PDP governorship primary and why was his only strong opponent in that contest, Sen. John James Udoedeghe, the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, governorship candidate wrongfully incarcerated on trumped up charges of treason and terriorism?

Undoubtedly, Akpabio failed in the only election he contested without the support of Ibibios in 2019, when he attempted to go for second term as a sitting senator, contesting on the platform of a ruling national party. In an election among his brothers, he failed against a onetime deputy governor who had retired from active politics. So much for Akpabio's political assets - charisma and appeal!

Going back to the article, the author obviously has peripheral understanding of what actually transpired during the Akpabio's succession saga. His ignorance could not be more glaring than when he attempted to canonize Senator Godswill Akpabio for investing his 'political capital' to produce Governor Udom Emmanuel in 2015. Understandably, he is unaware of the dilemma Akpabio found himself after realizing that he was without a succession plan or a successor few months to handing over.

It is well known that Akpabio's succession plan was bedeviled by insincerity, lack of purpose and mischief. The former governor apparently used the promise of handing over to one of his lieutenants as a strategy to secure loyalty. He ended up having so many would-be-successors such that infighting among them nearly tore the State to pieces. Some of his governors-in-waiting included Bishop Samuel Akpan, Mr. Umana Okon Umana, Mr. Nsima Ekere, Senator Helen Essuene, Barrister Ekpeyong Ntekim, Dr. Peter Esuh, Ambassador Asam Asam, Barrister Effiong Abia, Mr. Michael Sebastine and others.

Thankfully, Udom Emmanuel agreed to become the peace offering. His governorship is a product of delicate balancing and horse trading that took place between the three major ethnic groups making up the state especially between the majority Ibibios, who were unhappy for staying out of power for too long and the Oros, whom Akpabio sort to pacify after long years of marginalization. As a matter of fact, Governor Udom Emmanuel became the panacea that calmed a raging ethno-political storm which threatened the peaceful coexistence and unity of Akwa Ibom State in the build up to the 2015 electioneering. It is either the writer is ignorant of this fact or was too smug to cross-check facts.

Akpabio never saw Udom as his successor. In 2013, soon after disgracing his man friend - Mr. Umana Okon Umana - out of office he faced a major political revolt by the Ibibios who kept him in power. As a result, he jettisoned his plan to hand over power to Oro people even after he had settled on Barrister Effiong Abia and picked Udom Emmanuel to bail himself out of the quagmire he found himself. Yet, from open confessions of his core loyalists, Akpabio did not support Udom 100%. There are claims that he even gave oaths to people to 'support anyone that he (Akpabio) supported for governorship' whereas if he wanted Udom, he would have asked them to pledge 'to support Udom for governorship'! Meanwhile, it is a open secret that Akpabio ambushed Udom a day to the 2015 PDP primary, demanding that he foot the bill for the exercise.

I can continue indefinitely on the intrigues involved in succession politics in Akwa Ibom State which were obviously lost on the rabble rouser's writeup . In fact, governorship is always a subject for heated debate that does not abate even after a governor has emerged. As a Bible believing Christian, I am convinced that God predestinated Victor Attah, Godswill Akpabio and Udom Emmanuel to lead the State at the appointed time, not withstanding how they emerged. Like all right thinking citizens, I am certain that in 2023, Governor Udom Emmanuel will hand over to his successor divinely choosen and overwhelmingly elected by Akwa Ibom people against a lame claim that the governor is leaving issues of leadership succession to chance. It is only a fool that says in his heart that there is no God. And, if I may answer the question 'what Gov. Udom Emmanuel wants?', I believe he wants peace, security, God's protection and direction as well as ensuring that the collective will of Akwa Ibom people is done.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

...1st cargo components, NIS, NCS begins operations at LFTZ

The much anticipated Liberty Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, has taken off with the signing of a memorandum of understanding, MOU, between the Akwa Ibom State Government, AKSG and Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority, OGFZA.

The commencement of operations follows the receipt of the first cargo components, establishment of an Immigration office and setting up of a dedicated Customs command, in the free trade zone.

Signing the memorandum on behalf of the Akwa Ibom State government, Thursday at Government House Uyo, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, expressed the deep gratitude of the government and people of the state to President Muhammadu Buhari, for speedy approvals of the project.

The state government thanked the OGFZA Management for patriotism and commitment towards ensuring the timely take-off of the project, reiterating the determination of Governor Udom Emmanuel in keeping faith in the project and assiduously pursuing it to reality.

"The project is economically viable and laden with opportunities for Nigeria as a nation and the citizens. Such collaborative efforts, between component states and the centre were requisite to the socio-economic development and prosperity of the nation. This project is for the good of Nigeria. Nigeria is as strong and stable as each of the component states. Whoever wants Nigeria to be great will not play with the socio-economic development of each of her components”, Ekuwem asserted.

On his part, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority, Mr. Umana Umana, who performed the signing on behalf of the federal government agency, said the MoU was a confirmation of the commitments of President Buhari and Governor Emmanuel to the creation of economic opportunities.

He noted that the approval and execution of the project was void of political sentiments, revealing that so far, twelve firms with investment commitments of over $6 billion have come aboard the project, which he assured will be the fastest growing zone in Africa.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

LADO SULEJA'S DANCE OF SHAME ON VOA
BY LAWAL TANIMU SULEJA

While good governance depends on building strong institutions that provide the framework for politicians to act in the public’s interest, it also depends on choosing competent and trustworthy politicians who have the strength of character to uphold the values of the institutions in the first place.

Unfortunately, since 1999, less attention has been paid to ‘who’ becomes a political leader, particularly the quality of people elected as members of the Local Government Council, State Assembly, House of Representatives and Senate, as well as those elected as Governors and the President.

As a result of Nigerian electorate's failure to demand and elect political leaders who are competent and honest, we end up with elected officials who choose to undermine institutions’ integrity for self-dealing and personal gain.

In Niger state for instance, some of our political leaders' motivation to run for public office actually affect the quality of representation and public policies they adopt after becoming successful.

The motivation for most of those politicians often includes self-identity, self-interest and enrichment, family background, salaries, or a combination of these factors.

In particular, the significant opportunities for rent-seeking in public office have also attracted many of our politicians in Niger with a focus on extracting rents, the likes of our representative in the federal house, Lado Suleja who has not made any meaningful contributions in the House since his election.

Lado Suleja, for all intents and purposes, falls within the category of those individuals attracted by the informal rent structures that exist in Nigeria’s elected offices as againstt politicians with a public service focus.

Recently Lado stripped himself of the little remainingg strain the love, respect and cravings by the people when he inadvertently spoke half truths and embarrassed his status while speaking on a Voice of America radio Hausa programme "tsaka mai wuya".

His performance in that programme, to every discerning mind, has left a lot to be desired, even with the desperation to please his Abuja goddesses at the expense of his state government and the greater expense of the entire people of Niger State.
Most embarrassing was when Lado spread his gown of ignorance in the market square regarding current affairs when he insinuated that Niger State Governor Abubakar Sani Bello was the only one that accused the federal authorities of neglect in providing support for tackling the current general insecurity.

For the record, and for the sake of those who would want to venture into public commentaries blindly, the Niger Governor's remarks that were twisted by Lado merely expressed frustration with the federal government's deployment of troops to the state without logistic backup.

And of course, Governor Sani Bello was not the first to have made similar assertions: all the governors cited by Lado, viz: Borno, Zamfara, Katsina, have at certain times made such assertions regarding the handling of the situation in their states.

Professor Zulum of Borno even went to the extent of publicly calling for foreign mercenary support in addition to several accusations of non-performance, insufficiency of equipment and and general fall of morale on the part of the federal troops.

Masari of Katsina state and Zamfara's Bello Matawalle have variously made similar or worse assertions in the face of frustrated expectations from the federal authorities. This is a situation in which even some of the federal service chiefs have admitted certain levels of frustration.

In any case, Lado has not for once been seen speaking up on the floor of the House of Representatives about the security situation in Niger which would have been the primary focus of any responsible representative of a people in dire stress; the demand is more on Lado to move the House as his immediate constituency happened to be the major flashpoint before the current concerted effort initiated by the state government.
But then, prejudices die hard, which is perhaps why Lado accused the state government of not inviting him to discuss the the situation without mentioning how many times he himself made attempts to reach out to the governor with suggestions.

A decent representative with the concern of the people he represents would not wait to be invited before making contributions to issues that potentially affect his constituents.
From a reasonable man's point of view, Lado, prominently among the category of bench warmers in Nigeria's National Assembly, shouldn't have been the one pointing accusations at a governor of an entire state of millions of people.

(Tanimu, a concerned Nigerlite, writes from Suleja, Niger state)

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Rejiging Akwa Ibom economy: The Udom Emmanuel interministerial model

... Spotlight on 64 completed life torching projects for Uyo Senatorial District

By Emmanuel Sam

When in January, 2021, Governor Udom Emmanuel promised to rejig the state's economy with a #50 billion capital to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and empower Akwa Ibom youth through interministerial direct labour jobs, many thought it was tale by moonlight. But not only was the economy rejig with funds, but the Governor ended up pumping in a whopping #55 billion recreating a state that has become a major construction site. That's not all. To further show his commitment to the empowerment of the middle class and youth, the Governor also injected #1 billion for the interministerial direct labour jobs meant to empower the grassroots who form the bulk of of our rural dwellers.

In Uyo Senatorial District alone, numerous projects witnessed direct and urgent intervention accoss the nine Local Government Areas. From Uyo to Nsit Ubium, Ibiono to Nsit Ibom, Nsit Atai to Ibesikpo Asutan to Itu, Uruan to Etinan, no one was left out of the Intervention.

These interministerial direct labour jobs have no doubt injected life into the skilled and semi skilled workforce which is dominated by the average Akwa Ibom artisan worker who depends majorly on construction jobs for survival.

As a result of this, the intervention has provided jobs to Bricklayers, Carpenters, Painters, Electricians, Welders, Moulders, Plumbers, drivers, food vendors etc, thus producing and promoting goods, services, and activities of a cultural, artistic, and heritage-related nature. Artisans no doubt are a core component of the Akwa Ibom economy.

They are an integral part of our communities and these jobs are mostly domiciled in the rural areas. The policy shift of reviving artisan supply chains through the interministerial direct labour jobs is much more significant than it reads or sounds due to its multiplier effect. This sector is a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and cultural preservation.
In one fell swoop, Uyo Senatorial District was bombarded with a whopping 64 interministerial direct labour jobs. A breakdown of it shows that Uyo had 11 projects, Nsit Ubium got 8, 5 went to Ibiono Ibom while Nsit Ibom had 4 projects. Also, Nsit Atia was blessed with 5 interministerial jobs, Ibesikpo Asutan had 11, Itu got 5, Uruan 9 while 6 went to Etinan LGA.
In Uyo LGA for instance, a Classroom block 1 at St George Primary School, Aka Offot has been completed, including a Classroom block-3, as well as including a Classroom block-4, while a 6-Classroom block at Primary School, Mbiabong-Anyanya, a 4-Classroom block at Primary School with Perimeter fencing to complement the school.

Uyo can also boast of a 4-Classroom block at A.M.E Zion School, Ikot Mbon and an Assembly Hall/Classroom block at the same school while a 4-Classroom block has been renovated at Methodist Primary School, Itiam Etoi with Jubilee School, Uyo benefiting from a renovated Assembly Hall and renovation of Assembly Hall.

Nsit Ubium LGA saw numerous interministerial direct labour jobs such as Classroom block at Commercial Secondary School, Ikot Udo, 1 Classroom block at QIC Primary School, Ikot Akpan Abia and Classroom block-2 also at QIC Primary School, Ikot Akpan Abia while as part of the 2021 Constituency Projects for the fiscal year, the Governor has completed Classroom blocks at Secondary School, Ikot Okwot, with a worship building in the same school, renovation of Classroom block at QIC Primary School, Ikot Ntung, renovation of General Hospital/Rehabilitation of borehole water facility at Cottage Hospital, Ikot Ekpene Udo, and renovation of 4 Classrooms block at Community Secondary School, Ikot Uboh.

Similarly, a solar powered borehole at Usuk Ntan Ekere has been completed in Ibiono LGA, Classrooms block at Union Secondary School, Oko Ita, Classrooms block-2 at Union Secondary School, Oko Ita, a solar powered borehole at Ikot Udo Etim, and a solar powered borehole at Ikot Udom.

For Nsit Ibom LGA, the government's Interministerial direct labour has seen to the renovation/extension of 3-4 Classroom blocks at Primary School, Obo Ikot Ita, renovation of 4 Classroom blocks with offices in the same school, and also renovated the Schools Assembly Hall. That's not all, the government has also ensured the completion of the Youth Council Hall at Affia Nsit Udua Nko.


Moving to Nsit Atai, as Special Intervention Projects, the government has constructed Classroom block at Methodist Primary School, Ikot Akpabio, Classroom block at Primary School, Otu Abiyan, renovated and extended a 3-4 Classroom blocks at Community Secondary School, Essien Itiaba, and another 4 Classroom blocks, while the Assembly Hall at Secondary School, Ikot Akpan Ike has been renovated and extended.


In Ibesikpo Asutan LGA, government have constructed Classroom block at Community Secondary School, Iwawa Usung Eket, reconstruction of 4-Classrooms block 1 at Primary School Akpautong, and also reconstruction of 4-Classrooms block 2 at Primary School Akpautong, construction of 4-Classroooms block at Primary School, Ikot Akpabin, 4-Classrooms block-A at Primary School, Ikot Enua, and 4-Classrooms block-B at Primary School, Ikot Enua, 4-Classrooms block -A at Holy Child School, Ikot Ebre, and another 4-Classrooms block -B at Holy Child School, Ikot Ebre, while Classrooms block-A at Lutheran Primary School, Ikot Oku Ubo and Classrooms block-B at Lutheran Primary School, Ikot Oku Ubo and renovation of 4-Classrom block at Primary School, Ikot Obio Nko have all been completed.

For the people of Itu LGA, renovation of 2 Classrooms block at Primary School, Afaha Ube Itam, rehabilitation of Classrooms/Principal's Office Block with borehole water at Community Secondary Commercial School, Itam, renovation of Intro Technology Block at West Itam Secondary School, Itam, renovation of 4-Classrooms block at Itam Secondary School, Itam, renovation of 4-Classrooms block at Government Primary School, Ekid-Itam 1, have all been completed.

Moving to Uruan LGA, 6-Classrooms block at Atakpo Community Secondary School, Mbiaya Uruan, renovation of Classrooms block-1 at Secondary School, Ndon Ebom, renovation of Classrooms block-2 at Secondary School, Ndon Ebom, renovation of Classrooms block-3 at Secondary School, Ndon Ebom, rehabilitation of Classrooms and Principal's Office Block at Secondary School, Adadia, renovation of 4-Classrooms block at Methodist Central School, Adadia, renovation of Assembly Hall at Methodist Central School, Adadia, a 4-Classroom Block at Government Primary School, Ekpene Ibia and the construction of 4-Ckassrooms block at Government Primary School, Ekpene Ibia have all been completed.

The people of Etinan LGA are not left out. A classroom block at Etinan the construction of 4-Classroom block-A at Salvation Primary School, Efa, construction of Assembly Hall at Command Secondary School, Efa, construction of 4-Classroom block-B at Salvation Primary School, Efa, a Classroom block -B at Etinan Institute and a Male Hostel block and isolated toilet block at Etinan Institute have all been completed.

These infrastructural intervention which cuts across the social sectors of education, health etc has no doubt helped reposition these sectors, empower the youth who form the bulk of the beneficiaries and goes further to fulfilling a cardinal objective of the completion agenda of the Governor Udom Emmanuel led administration.

Some of the youth who are beneficiaries of the interministerial direct labour contract, have been able to help themselves from the profit they have made for the job which has empowered them by adding both meaning and value to their lives. There is no doubt that this gesture has further created a sense of belonging to the many supporters of the Governor who now see themselves as part of the government they worked for and supported.

To Governor Udom Emmanuel, the interministerial direct labour contract is a promise made and a promise kept in keeping with his completion agenda and his resolve to see to the total overhaul and repositioning of the educational, health and social sectors of the economy as a pointer to where the state is heading to as far as his Industrialisation policy is concerned.

Footnote:

Coming Soon: Watch out for Spotlight on completed Interministerial Direct Labour Projects in Eket & Ikot Ekpene Senatorial districts of Akwa Ibom State.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

A'Ibom set to commence tomato paste production
...as 169 youths complete training on vegetable enterprise devt

Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State has set modalities to commence commercial production of tomato puree - the concentrate used for making tomato paste.

The Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Barrister Ukpong Akpabio, gave this hint during the graduation ceremony organised for 169 youths (62 female and 107 male) who successfully completed training in vegetable enterprise development, in Okobo Local Government Area on Friday May 14, 2021.

Barrister Akpabio, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in his Ministry, Mr. Oliver Udo-okpo, stated that government is taking steps to ensure youths are sufficiently and productively engaged in Agriculture and food production considering their critical importance to the state economy and the country at large.

According to him, "His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel, has given us directive to bring tomato puree factory to the state in no distant future and your tomato farms located across the State will supply raw materials needed for commercial production of tomato paste".

He commended the trainees for their perseverance and focus throughout the two month intensive training programme despite several hurdles, saying those challenges only served to strengthen them.

"I'm pleased to see what stuff you people are made of and I appreciate your perseverance, determination, team spirit and focus. It wasn't an easy drive but today we thank God that we've been successful in this program. We were worried because of the long journey from Uyo and other parts of the State to this training facility, but your determination has paid off. We will try as much as possible to assist so that you secure some grant to commence your farms." He pledged.


The Commissioner thanked the consulting firm which handled the training, Bennycom Agro Academy especially the Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Brezhnev Langwa, for his several contributions to support State government actualise and sustain the vegetable revolution. "I thank Mr. Brezhnev Langwa, the training consultant for partnering government in taking youths off vices such as arm robbery, hooliganism, prostitution and drugs to train them in vegetable enterprise development. I also thank his team and appreciate your efforts." He said.

In his remarks, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Benny Group the parent company of Bennycom Agro Academy, thanked State government especially the Ministry of Trade and Investment for initiating the training programme. He also applauded the successful trainees for staying strong to the end.

"For the past two and half months, we have been on a tedious journey to acquire knowledge needed to feed our people and grow the economy therefore this training is not the end but a means to an end.

"The governor, His Excellency Udom Emmanuel, when he came in 2015 created the platform that will pull youths off the street into gainful employment. Today, the Ministry of Trade and Investment is following in that direction by undertaking an unpredented feat of training youths for food and vegetables production.

Mr. Langwa then reiterated his promise to employ 39 of the successful trainees, saying this was his demonstration of faith in government's investment in creating employment for the youths as well as creating wealth through industrialization.

"When you go to Asia to get a product you are providing jobs for those in Asia. So, we will turn this trend around in partnership with the Ministry of Trade and Investment. The Ministry through this programme is building a system of value where commonly consumed vegetables like tomato and pepper will be cultivated in Akwa Ibom State, processed and exported from this State.We will produce, feed the state and process the excess for export". He said.

In his vote of thanks, one of the trainees, Mr. Edem Ebong, thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel for providing platforms to gainfully employ Akwa Ibom youths. He thanked the Commissioner and the Ministry of Trade and Investment for conceptualizing the programme, and thanked the management and staff of Bennycom Agro Academy as well as the trainees for their determination to complete the two month intensive training despite setbacks.

Ebong however appealed for support from government to assist trainees to form cooperatives and start their own farms.

It is on record that Akwa Ibom State has witnessed increased cultivation of various fast yielding vegetables including tomato, onion, pepper, cucumber, watermelon and others since the governor, Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, flagged off the 'vegetable revolution' in 2016.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

PDP PASSES VOTE OF CONFIDENCE ON GOV. EMMANUEL

... As Stakeholders reaffirm Support for Completion, Succession Agenda

Stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State, have passed a unanimous vote of confidence on Governor Udom Emmanuel for what they describe as the applaudable strides he has made in leading the State since he took over as Governor in 2015.

At an enlarged stakeholders meeting of the party in Uyo, Friday May 14, the PDP stalwarts noted that Governor Emmanuel's emergence heralded a new dawn of charismatic leadership, with great feat in steadying the state on the path of accelerated progress while insulating the people from the pangs of the economic recession that has plagued Nigeria.

Moving the motion for a vote of confidence on the governor, the PDP National Legal Adviser, Barr Emmanuel Enoidem, noted that the party is satisfied with the governor's performance, adding that he is the pride of the party.

"We are satisfied that we have you as governor, especially at a time like this. You have managed resources in this state so well that we cannot help but thank you. You have vigorously stabilized this state on a path of peace. Through your exemplary leadership, you have made Akwa Ibom State to become a model to other states", said Enoidem.

While addressing the party stakeholders, Governor Emmanuel acknowledged the role of the party in the success of his administration, stating that he will continue on the path of taking Akwa Ibom State to an advanced level and leaving behind positive imprints of Broad-based development in the state.

Governor Emmanuel urged the stakeholders to assist the government in preaching against acts capable of disrupting the peace in the state, as such acts can demarket the state.

The Governor also used the platform to call on the elders and community leaders in the respective local government areas to do their bid in ensuring that no criminal element hides within their domains to perpetrate evil.

While assuring the Stakeholders and Akwa Ibom people of his resolve to continue to pursue a blueprint of development that will lead to the collective prosperity of all Akwa Ibom people, the Governor urged the Stakeholders not to heat up the polity as the 2023 election cycle draws nigh.

On his part, the Acting State Chairman of the party, Rt. Hon. Lawrence Udosen, applauded Governor Emmanuel for his strides in various sectors of state's economy, describing them as "people-centric". He pointed that the projects and programmes of the governor have impacted positively on the people. While charging party stakeholders on continued support for the governor, the acting chair who described the party as "stakeholders in the completion agenda of the governor", said that leaders and faithful of the party "must stay true to the cause of the completion agenda", adding that the stakeholders task is to remain resolute and true to the succession plan.

Speaking separately, stakeholders across all three senatorial districts as well as Akwa Ibom national assembly caucus and the State House of Assembly, thanked the governor for his feats in the state, reassuring him of their support for his completion and succession agenda.

In their remarks, Prince Ekpe Atakpo, Senator Emmanuel Ibokessien, Chief (Hon) Nduese Essien, Senator Akon Eyakenyi and the Deputy Speaker of the state assembly, Rt. Hon. (Princess) Felicia Bassey, hailed the governor's sterling performance in different sectors, even as they called on Akwa Ibom people to continue to support the Governor.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

DON’T RELEASE THE $1.6 BILLION TO NDDC, GROUP ADVISES EFCC

…URGES THE GOVERNORS OF OIL PRODUCING STATES TO URGENTLY INTERVENE

A group, Niger Delta Peoples’ Assembly For Peace and Development, NDPAPD, has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as well as the Governors of the nine Oil Producing States not to allow the release the 1.6 billion dollars statutory contributions made by the International Oil Companies (IOC’s) currently being warehoused by the EFCC, which belongs to all the oil producing States to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC)).

The group based their objection on the fact that the NDDC is currently run by an illegal Sole Administrator who is also being supervised solely by the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

In a press statement signed by the President, Obarine Ngelale, and made available to newsmen in Port Harcourt on Thursday May 13, 2021, the group stated that the money “belongs to the Oil Producing States and should be used for the development of the region.

We frown at the notion that such a huge amount of money would be released to the Sole Administrator of the NDDC who is mainly answerable to the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

We wish to reiterate what we have been saying and which has been the position of all the major stakeholders of the region that the creation of the position of a Sole Administrator is illegal and runs against the spirit and the letter of the NDDC Act of 2000 from which the Commission derives its powers.

We call on the EFCC not to release the money which is currently being warehoused by the Commission to the NDDC and for the EFCC to take over what is obviously an unending forensic audit from the illegally appointed Sole Administrator. Nigerians are tired of this charade in the name of forensic audit.

From our investigations, we have been informed that there is a strong lobby from the higher echelon of the Niger Delta Affairs Ministry to have the money released to the Sole Administrator and we want to advise the EFCC not to give in to the pressure. The region has been lately threatened by spates of insecurity and the youths are increasingly getting restive. If this money is released to an unaccountable body solely supervised by the Niger Delta Affairs Minister, the level of insecurity will be increased and this is not what we want and desire for the region.

We have also been reliably informed that the Niger Affairs Minster has a presidential ambition and desires to use the money to fund his all-but certain presidential run. He is also rumoured to be getting ready to float another political party to help him in his presidential quest since he has told close associates he may not get the ticket from his current party, the APC. To help him achieve this goal, he recently formed and is said to be the sole financier of a political group called Akwa Ibom Democratic Forum (ADF) with coordinators already appointed throughout the nation and several chapters already inaugurated in Akwa Ibom State.
We are not bothered or concerned by whatever ambitions he may entertain, but we will not accept the use of our collective commonwealth by an individual to fund such an ambition. The money belongs to the oil producing States.”

The group calls on the Governors of the nine Oil Producing States to prevail on the EFCC not to release the money to the NDCC currently managed by an illegal body headed by the Sole Administrator.

“We call on the Governors of the nine Oil Producing States to please rise up and stop the release of this money to the Sole Administrator. We have challenges of insecurity in our region, our youths are getting restive, our environment has been destroyed, and now our commonwealth is going to be released to an unaccountable body, please our dear Governors, don’t allow this to happen.”

The group also urged The Presidency to step in and stop the release of the money so as to guarantee peace and development in the region.

Cc : Lalasticlala, mynd44

GOVERNOR EMMANUEL EULOGIZES CHIDI IZUWAH’S LEGACY AT COLLOQUIUM

Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State, in a memorial colloquium organized in honour of the Director General of Infrastructure Concession and Regulatory Commission (ICRC), late Engr. Chidi Izuwah, on Monday, eulogized the deceased and his indelible legacies.

Delivering his goodwill message at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, Governor Emmanuel, who was represented by the State Commissioner for Special Duties, Rt. Hon. Okpolupm Etteh, said late Izuwah, whom he “had a vital and good relationship spanning decades,” will be greatly missed by the people of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.

“Engr. Izuwah spent his life regulating the reconstruction and industrialization of Nigeria. He was not just a good friend of Akwa Ibom State, he was an invaluable asset to our state,” he added.

He thanked the deceased family and the Commission for the honour done his friend through a memorial colloquium, maintaining that his legacy is seen in his commitment and passion for the development of the Ibom Deep Seaport project and the general industrial revolution of Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking further, Governor Emmanuel said “Engr. Izuwah played a critical role in the relevant infrastructure concession approval processes for Ibom Deep Seaport project and which we are eternally grateful. Engr. Izuwah was consumed with the vision of Nigeria industrialization through Public Private Partnership. It will not be out of place to refer to him as the CZAR of modern PPP in Nigeria. His legacies will certainly live long.”

He also admonished participants at the event to use the power of their lives and offices for the lasting good of those within their circle of influence and the larger society.

Among those that registered their presence at the event were Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha; former Governor of Abia State, Senator Theodore Orji; Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Geoffrey Onyeama; Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire; Minister of State for Health, Senator Adeleke Mamora, and Minister of Water Resources, Engr. Suleiman Adamu.

Others included Head of Federal Civil Service, Dr Folashade Yemi-Esan; former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Mr. Chukwuemeka Nwogu; former Director General of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Mr. Emeka Eze; Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Mr. Hassan Bello; President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Babagana Mohammed, among others.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Ibom Deep Seaport: Hope rises as AKSG, NPA, set up implementation Committee

Hope for a quick actualisation of the Ibom Deep Seaport got a boost recently following the setting up of a Joint Project Implementation Committee, by both the Nigeria Port Authority (NPA), and the Akwa Ibom State Government, AKSG.

Governor Udom Emmanuel at Monday's State Executive Council meeting approved the setting up of an interface committee to ensure the smooth take-off of the multi billion dollar project.

The state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Comrade Ini Ememobong, who disclosed this while briefing Government House correspondents after a State Executive Council at Government House, Uyo said, following the report presented to the Council by the Chairman Technical Committee on Ibom Deep Seaport Actualisation and Development, Mrs. Mfon Usoro, all steps towards the actualization of the Akwa Ibom dream project was on track.

According to him, the Joint Project Committee by the NPA will serve as a one-stop-shop for all matters concerning the seaport between the Federal and State government, while the state-instituted committee will interface with local stakeholders to ensure smooth takeoff of the project.

According to him, "The report on the Ibom Deep Seaport implementation was presented by the chairman of that Technical Committee, which informed the Council that the Nigeria Port Authority had set up a Joint Project Committee for the Deep Seaport and also said that every step to be taken on that project was on track. To further push the project, Council has set up a committee to interface with local stakeholders for a smooth takeoff of that project”.

Speaking further on resolutions reached at the April State Executive Council Meeting, the state information boss said the council undertook a review of quarterly performance reports of Ministries and the Bureaux and commended them, while still calling for increased efforts towards the Completion Agenda.

The State Executive Council also directed that the directorate of Solid Minerals be moved from the Ministry of Transports to the Ministry of Environment for better alignment of job function.

Hear him, "His Excellency directed that for the better alignment of job function, the directorate of Solid Minerals be moved from the Ministry of Transports to the Ministry of Environment, so we will now have the Ministry of Environment with the nomenclature, Ministry of Environment and Solid Minerals”.

The Commissioner also noted that Council expressed satisfaction with the work done so far at the Ibom Hotels and Gulf Resort when it received a scorecard of the Ibom Hotels and Gulf Resort showing developments financial statement of the first 120 days of the state owned hospitality outfit under the current management, the Icon Group, and challenged the new managers to improve upon the present in the reports subsequent periods.

He noted that the Technical Committee on Agriculture and Food Sufficiency was charged to double their effort in the benefit of the state and the citizenry, as the Chairman, Professor Edet Udoh, presented the committee’s report the EXCO under agriculture.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

40 Students Sponsored By Kayode Badru Graduates From Aciatech School Of Art

Popular Lagos big boy Kayode Badru on Friday witnessed the graduation of the 40 students he sponsored to Academy For Innovative Art And Technology ( Aciatech ).

The event took place at Excellence Hotel Conference hall Ogba Aguda, Ijaiye Lagos.

The Royal father of the was Alaguda of Agudaland, His Royal Highness Oba Akeem Agbaosi ‘Ewe Obaja 1’, in the kebiesi’s entourage we also have Dr. Dayo Banjo the “Basegun” of Agudaland and the Oloriodo of the land Chief Kunle Familola.

However, chief Rotimi Ajanaku, Dare Santana, Hon. Fateema Mohammed, Chief Femi Davies, Biodun Kupoluyi among others were honoured with a portrait art picture drawn by Professor Lukman Yekinni Showunmi who is also the founder of the Academy.

Speaking with newsmen on this humanitarian gesture , Kayode Badru said there is need to do such programme in other to encourage the youths and also give back to the society.

Also , professor Showunmi gave thanks to others Like Fuji Star, Wasiu Alabi Pasuma, Adewale Ayuba, Aare Gani Adams among others who have also sponsored students to the school of Art.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

LT General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, Oluwo of Owu Kuta, led other dignitaries to the burial ceremony of late Colonel Isaac Ayodele Oyelude and his wife, Lady Evangelist Victoria Adejoke.

In attendance, it was learnt that many traditional rulers and other notable dignitaries that cut round several tribes were present at the ceremony which held at Ibokun area in Osun State.

At the funeral service, the former Chief of Army staff, described the late Colonel and his wife as a great humane and a perfect paradigm.

Olowu of Kuta in his comment urges General Buratai to Continue his Selfless service to the nation without looking back as he can see the Natural Solidarity of support he Recieved from Natural Rulers of the land.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Regional integration, interconnectivity: Ibom air to commence Uyo-Gambia route soon

The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel has declared the preparedness of the state owned carrier, Ibom Air to commence flight operations between Uyo and Banjul, Gambia, aimed at strengthening regional integration and trade between the two countries.

This was part of discussions Monday, when the Gambian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mohamadou Musa Njie met with the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel at Government House, Uyo.

The Governor thanked the Gambian High Commissioner and the President of Gambia for indicating interest in bilateral relations with Akwa Ibom State in the area of Commerce, industry and aviation development, stating that the vision of the State owned Airline, Ibom Air, to become the West African Aviation power house, is nearing reality, following indications that Ibom Air could soon commence regional operations between Nigeria and The Gambia.

"We are actually planning a regional flight with Ibom Air, so we hope by next month we should take delivery of two brand new A220 300 series Airbuses, we want to use that for regional flights. I will get this to be discussed at the directors meeting of Ibom Air so that we can also consider Banjul", the Governor assured.

The Governor who acknowledged the tourism potentials in Gambia, advised other West African countries to take advantage of the tourism potentials that Ibom Air is offering.

Speaking earlier, the Gambia High Commissioner Mohamadou Musa Njie commended the Governor for the great achievements recorded by Ibom Air and expressed the willingness of his country to have Ibom Air commence operations into Banjul.

He presented a letter personally written by the President of The Gambia requesting the Akwa Ibom State Government to extend the operations of Ibom Air to The Gambia. The letter also conveyed the invitation by the President of The Gambia, Adama Barrow to Governor Emmanuel for a visit to The Gambia to strengthen industrial and trade relations.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Barely two years to this time, another general election would be conducted in Nigeria. While the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) would want to remain in power, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are also working hard to get back to the seat of power. 

There has been discussion on zoning permutation and how it may shape the election. 

Already there is a likelihood that the APC may consider a Southerner as its candidate for the presidency seat while the PDP may settle for a northerner.  

As of the time of this report, permutations are still on going and nobody has really spoken on white paper on how the selection process of either of the parties would be. 
 
It is politics and the language in Nigeria is that morality, religion, equity, fairness and justice are secondary while the interest of the political players are considered primary.  

A thorough look at the situation of things in the opposition PDP is that the chances of the presidential candidate coming from the north is much more higher than southerner consideration. 

The southerners have always take the lead in PDP since 1999. The party ruled for 16 years and of the 16 years, the South – between Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan – spent 13 years and 25 days, cumulatively. 

The only northerner who ruled during this period was the late Umar Musa Yar’Adua and due to his illness, he only spebt two years and 341 days in office. 

If equity is to be considered, PDP would do justice by ensuring that its presidential  candidate comes from the northern zone in 2023. 

APC understands that the current president is from the north and after its eight years tenure, the party would consider South. If the ruling considered this, then it would be counter productive for the PDP not to be wise in ensuring balance in its party. In fact, a failure to do this would make the poll walk over for the APC. 

Ideologically, like some northern PDP members worked with the APC in 2015 to elect President Buhari, many northern APC members would also work with the PDP to elect whoever it brings forward. 

Those clamoring for PDP to zone the presidency to the south can blackmail the party but to have a better chance in 2023, only a northern candidate can help defeat the incumbent.

Cc:

Lalasticlala, mynd44

...says Ex party chair helped translate his govt's vision as Commissioner

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel says the former State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Obong Udo Ekpeyong, was a formidable ally who helped translate the visions of his administration.

The Governor who spoke at the funeral service in honour of the departed party Chairman in Ukanafun said, ever since his path crossed with the late Ekpeyong, their shared journey of selfless service to the people showed Obong Udo Ekpenyong as a formidable ally, "a man whose words meant everything; a man of sterling principles and integrity, deep in faith and deep in convictions, a man who, once he was committed to standing with you, will remain unshaken or unmoved by the tempest or the undulating tidal waves of loyalty that sometimes characterize the human condition. In Udo Ekpenyong, I found a general you could depend upon to execute agreed strategies of victory and, who, will hold dear to his heart the underlying articles of faith without betrayal"

He stated that the deceased served his administration admirably as the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and helped to translate its vision of mutual engagements especially with Traditional Rulers in the task of ensuring that Government policies and programmes trickled down to the masses.


"How do I come to terms with the fact that one of my most trusted and loyal lieutenants, Honourable Obong Udo Ekpenyong, our able and dependable State Party Chairman is gone? How do you begin to describe in past tense a man who few days to his sad passing had shown great and comforting signs of recovery and was looking forward to returning to do what he knew how to do best: Gathering people to advance the continuous growth of our Party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its dominance in the political stratosphere of our State?"

"How do I begin to address in past tense the man who was rock-solid in his convictions, was unwavering in doing all that was proper, right and noble; a man who would not bend his beliefs on the fleeting passion of herd mentality or a follower of issues layered in conventional wisdom? A man whose force of character was furnaced and shaped on the steel of loyalty, discipline and character", he lamented.

He regretted that just when he was getting ready to continue with another assignment of huge responsibility as the Chairman of the PDP, a position he held for a few months, death took him away, and admonished that though Udo Ekpenyong may be physically gone, the memories of his good deeds, his admirable character, convictions, integrity, loyalty, faith in God and in His unseen Hands to perfect that which was once thought impossible, "all these great and ennobling memories will continue to be placed in us, whom he so sadly and painfully left behind. We will miss him dearly and deeply", he declared.

He note that the mood the state felt or experience since January 19th, though painful and sad as it is, however, is rooted in love; love for a man who was a walking vessel of loyalty, dependability, trust and faith in institutions of governance and its defining Symbols.

Hear him, "We are gathered here to mourn and bid farewell to a man who was grateful for what God and providence had thrown his way, and correspondingly did all he could to live his life in fulfilment of such grace and in appreciation and loyalty to the earthly agents of grace God had brought his way".

"We are gathered here today in deep grief, pain and paradoxically in over-flowing love. Grief, if I may add, is an emotion that is rooted in love. We grief for those we love dearly and deeply. Her Royal Majesty, Queen Elizabeth 11, captured this sentiment so poignantly when she once said that “Grief is the price we pay for love.”

"My dear Friend, Compatriot, and dependable ally, the late Hon. Udo Ekpenyong, esiereee! May your soul rest in the bosom of our Lord and Creator, Amen", he submitted.

Also speaking, the National Chairman of the PDP, Prince Uche Secondus, who was represented by the National Secretary PDP, Sen. Umaru Ibrahim Tsauri, described the death of Udo Ekpenyong as a great loss to the PDP family, to the state and the nation at large.

According to Prince Secondus, “As for the national working committee, we have lost a formidable pillar, a pillar that supported the PDP at the center. We have lost a fortune. We commiserate with the family of Udo Ekpenyong and the good people of Akwa Ibom State”. He commiserated with the family of late Udo Ekpenyong over the painful exit of a confidant and a formidable pillar whom he said will be greatly missed, praying God to give the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Delivering a homily at the event, Pastor Ita Ukana Ekpenyong of the Delightful Christian Church International, Uyo, admonished the people not live on assumptions. Drawing from the lessons in the story of Sampson who, in Judges 16:20, assumed God was still with him when he was no more, said any other assumption could be pardonable, but that the most expensive was to assume having the presence of God when it has actually left.

The cleric said the dead is done and gone but that the living who still have an opportunity to appraise their lives and make amends should endeavour to retain the presence of God and not make the mistakes of Sampson.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Controversy Trails Aregbesola South West NUJ Grand Patron Investiture

......all council chairmen of zone distance themselves

Controversies have continued to trail the proposed Investiture of the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, as the Grand Patron of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in the South West over reservations expressed by the six state council chairmen in the zone about the justification for the award.

Recall that the union at its zonal meeting of 12th March, 2021, had agreed to put the proposed Investiture on hold following the leadership crisis in the zone which has been refferd to the National Executive Council of the Union.

According to the information, those who were to be honoured alongside Aregbesola includes Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, Olowu of Kuta, Oba Adekunle Makama among others but the union agreed to postpone the award ceremony pending the resolution of NEC on the issue and other sundry issues within the zone.

But against this decision, a flier suddenly surfaced on the social media, purportedly endorsed by Bamigbola Gbolagunte, who claimed to be Acting Vice-president and later Zonal Secretary of the zone, saying the event has been slated for 25th March, 2021, at NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku, the capital of Oyo State.

While scores of political associates of the former Osun State Governor have been celebrating the proposed investiture on different social media platforms, the six states that constitute the zonal wing of the union in the South West have unanimously distanced self from such event.

As at the time of filling this report, it is not clear if the event will still hold with opposition of Oyo state council to the Investiture. It was learnt that the Iyaganku NUJ Press Centre which was earlier scheduled as the venue was not approved and had equally directed its members not to participate in the event.

It was learnt that the six state chairmen have resolved not to attend the award and recognize the Investiture if the Vice President and the Zonal Secretary insisted to proceed with the award.

An associate of the Interior Minister however, hinted that the venue of the proposed event had been changed from NUJ Press Centre in Ibadan to Premier Hotel located in the metropolis .


Meanwhile, some civil society organisations have expressed reservations over the proposed investiture, calling on the leadership of NUJ in the zone to tread with caution.

An NGO, Advocacy for Media Rights, on Wednesday described the proposed investiture as perceptional error on the part of the union, insisting that the personality of Aregbesola in the public gauge deserves nothing of such recognition .

This was contained in a press statement signed by the National Coordinator of the organization, Comrade Tolu Fatukasi, the copy which was made available to newsmen in Ibadan.

According to the group, the investiture of an individual as the Grand Patron of a noble union like NUJ should be predicated on established media friendliness and consistent solidarity to the union by such person.

The statement read in part", While the position of a Grand Patron of any layer of the union is acceptable and within the ambit of the union's constitution, the mode of selection of whoever wants to take the position should be moderate and decent.

"We are indeed taken aback at the mention of Rauf Aregbesola's name for the proposed investiture as the Grand Patron of NUJ in the South West.

"As a Media Rights group, we have the details of Aregbesola's strained relationship with the media throughout his two term tenure in office as governor in Osun State.

"Aregbesola was the first governor in the Nigeria's fourth republic to have publicly declared journalists as personal non grata and enemies of state.

"This is the man who established a local newspaper called "Osun Defender" to covertly project his political interest and upon realising his ambition, he threw journalists working in the firm out with disdain.

"By all standards, it is obvious such a personality does not fit into the category of individuals with credentials for Grand Patron of the NUJ in any cluster whatsoever".

"You can imagine the desperation of the Minister and his handlers, when they realised that the consensus of the leadership of the union in the South West was to cancel the event, they now wanted to organise a kangaroo investiture somewhere else in connivance with two dissidents parading themselves as leaders of the union in the zone".

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Governor Udom Emmanuel has disclosed that the $1.4b fertilizer plant project in Akwa Ibom State by OCP Africa will have a positive impact on agriculture, boost employment and create a chain of profitable economic activities in the state.

The governor stated this while receiving a delegation of leading global provider of phosphate, OCP Africa led by its Managing Director, Mohamed Hettiti, who paid him a courtesy visit on Wednesday, at Government House, Uyo, recently.

"The results will say a lot more than we can actually say right now, but we are ready, as a state government we are ready, our partners are ready, we’ve started the project straight ahead, I think very soon results will start showing”, the Governor said.

He thanked OCP AFRICA for visiting the host communities, noted that it is a right step in the right direction indicating the take-off of the project and assured them of his administration's readiness to keep to its part of the bargain, noting that people in the state, especially farmers, stand to benefit a lot from the project, as OCP Africa will ensure necessary education for farmers on fertilizer needs and best practices, assuring that the project will berth a huge investment in agriculture, partnering with farmers, distributors and stakeholders to foster a thriving agriculture system.

“Let me appreciate all the partners in this project, this is a big project outside the ammonia and fertilizer you heard the MD OCP, Africa mentioned fertilizer and we have a whole lot to do in terms of education and it’s a lot more involving than probably what people talked about, but we are taking all the processes and a step at a time.


He hinted that work will commence on other phases of the project soon and thanked Ikot Abasi the host community for a warm reception accorded the Moroccan investors into the state.

“You’ve heard him say that they are excited about the reception by the host community, the next thing we are going through will be the survey and the rest of it, as the events unfold we will keep the press abreast with what we are doing".

In his remarks, the Managing Director, OCP AFRICA, Mohamed Hettiti, said the objective of the visit was to partner the host community to execute the project and commence collaboration in the agricultural sector in the state.

“The objective of the visit was to visit the site and to align and partner with the host community for our project and also to start collaboration in the Agricultural sector with the state. "So far we have a good and perfect site for our plant”, he stated.

A'IBOM GOVT TO COMPLETE MRO FACILITY FEBRUARY, 2022

...AS AVIATION MINISTER, NIGERIANS SCORE AKWA IBOM HIGH ON IBOM AIR, AIRPORT


Several Nigerians have again scored the Akwa Ibom State owned Airline, Ibom Air, high in safety, reliability, discipline and performance.

The latest trend of commendations came after the Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika took to his personal Twitter handle to announce his satisfaction with the performance of the airline.

"Was onboard Ibom Air to Uyo this morning, very impressed with the COVID19 protocols established by both the Airline and the Airport.," the Minister posited.

A passenger, Preye Aganaba @preyeaganaba replying the Minister said, "I also flew it for the first time last week Tuesday to Uyo from Abuja. I really enjoyed my flight. New plane, courteous staff and smooth landing. Look forward to flying that airline again."

Another passenger who responded using @AlakaDebola, Debola Alaka also affirmed the commendations maintaining that, "I agree � I was on it because I didn't have a choice, from checking
in to landing I couldn't believe a Nigerian company can be that discipline and professional. I am glad the Minister recognised it."

For Faruk(@MrFaroukk), "Ibom Air are really trying...I was equally impressed by their overall services when I traveled from Abuja to Lagos few weeks back. Well trained staff and highly professional. They are indeed pacesetters to our local airlines."

Other commentators further corroborated these and urged other airlines to emulate Ibom Air.
One of them Umar Maigana(@SUDMaigana) posited that "Commendations to those that deserve to be commended. Other Airlines should emulate."

In the words of Engr. Yasir Arafat Jubril, "Try Airpeace, you won't even fly till next tomorrow because it'll be rescheduled."

One of the commentators, @Uduboism had some requests for the airline, "I wish they'll start the PHC(Port Harcourt) - ABJ(Abuja) route...I really want to fly with you guys @ibomairlines.

One of the views expressed obviously came from an indigene of the state, Susan Henshaw, who said, "Ak Air is a bomb. I love the Ibibio language salutations. It never gets old. So cool.

Meanwhile, the Special Duties Commissioner in the state, Rt. Hon. Okpolupm Etteh says Governor Udom Emmanuel is committed to timely completion of work at the Maintenance, Repairs and Overhaul (MRO) Facility at the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo.

Rt. Hon. Etteh said the Governor Emmanuel's administration was fully aware of the strategic advantage it will accord the state and nation in the sub Saharan aviation sector.

"We want to assure you that His Excellency, the Governor has this project as the apple of his eyes and he will do everything humanly possible to see to its final completion" he said.

The Honourable Commissioner said the MRO has passed through the hands of two previous companies before the present one namely Messrs CAMOSA Limited, saying the Emmanuel administration expects the project to be completed within the contractual duration given by Government.

He charged the contractor to bring to bare their wealth of experience in the project and commended them for the quality of the present state of the project as well as their cooperation with the ministry's supervising team.

Giving details of the MRO Project, the CAMOSA Project Director, Mr Kobus Marias, said the firm was trying to achieve a world class facility that will help the government achieve its aim and also get good returns on investment.

He said CAMOSA was awarded contract for the completion of the MRO after having completed the initial contract of erecting the VIP hanger at the Airport and assured that the MRO completion phase, which started October 2020 will be completed in (14) fourteen months.

He said the hanger was designed to service two B747-400 aircrafts or four number B737/A320 to Q400/ATR42/72 aircrafts.

The Project Director said work was currently in progress in the dormitory area, offices and Air Conditioning equipment while the bulk of the work will be on the hanger floor construction.

The MRO on completion shall have allied support shops such as paint, wheel and brake, landing, sheet metal /machine, battery, Hydraulic welding, cabin repair/overhaul shops and many more facilities including a training theatre.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

ADAPHAI commends Buhari on nomination of Ex service chiefs as ambassadors

Being the press statement delivered by Advocacy for Advancement of Peace and Harmony in Africa Initiative (ADAPHAI) on the nomination of ex-service chiefs as non-career ambassadors-designate

Indeed, President Muhammadu Buhari has once again proven to the world that he is a sensitive leader with enviable trait of rewarding hard-work for the purpose of enhancing good performance and productivity.

Without mincing words, engaging the ex-service chiefs with further sensitive responsibilities after retirement has dual positive impacts on the ongoing fight against insurgency. While it will naturally boost the morale of those soldiers and officers at the front-line, and increase their confidence in the system to be more committed, it will also afford Nigeria the golden opportunities of tapping the wealth of knowledge of these ex-service chiefs in tactical diplomacy and global security architecture.

Also, serving as non-career ambassadors after meritorious service to curtail a large scale insurgency with overwhelming success will bring about dynamism to Nigeria's foreign policy, especially in the area of pattern of involvement in security issues within the comity of nations.

More importantly, it is a common knowledge that one of the greatest bane of victory against the current war to nip terrorism in the bud is the cumbersome process of accessing necessary weapons from producing countries abroad. The expertise of these ex-service chiefs in intricacies of armament will help Nigeria to facilitate negotiation and importation of such military hardware.

As an organization saddled with the mandate to propagate peace in Africa as well as the obligation of monitoring and accessing interventions on peace building, we have consistently asserted that there is empirical evidence of high level of professionalism and commitment displayed by the out-gone service chiefs, with a clear-cut achievements from 2015 till this moment.

That these noble men have patriotically and effectively coordinated the war against ideological struggle by Boko Haram and ISIS bloc of West Africa is under evaluation, the spread of the insurgency have been obviously restrained and greatly curtailed, unlike between 2010 and 2015, when insurgents were so emboldened to the extent of attacking the Force headquarters and the UN building located in the heart of FCT.

Sincerely, President Buhari deserves huge accolades from Nigerians for recognizing act of patriotism and good performance; he must also be commended for making Nigeria's foreign policy more dynamic and stronger by this appointment, for the purpose of sustaining Nigeria's status as big brother in Africa within the comity of nations

It is however instructive to warn the fifth columnists to desist from their campaign of calumny against our heroes, who have selflessly served this nation without blemish and willing to do more for the country in other areas of needs and National challenges.

It is equally important to enjoin members of the Senate as the bastion of democracy not to be distracted by ongoing campaign of calumny embarked upon by enemies of Nigeria and do the needful by giving accelerated endorsement to the nomination of the ex-service chiefs for them to commence their assignment in earnest.

We want to specially appreciate and congratulate the immediate past Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Tukur Buratai (Rtd) for attaining this enviable feat and legacies left behind in the Army towards the ongoing fight against insurgency.

In addition to this, Buratahi, as a Chief of Army Staff unprecedentedly combined combative orientation with humanity and developmental inclination.

His interventions in infrastructure across Nigeria, irrespective of region or religion is extremely laudable, he would be remembered as the best COAS in terms of capacity building, training and retraining, medical welfare and promotion of qualitative education for the younger generation.

African elite, especially those with military exposure continued to shower encomiums on him for the establishment of Nigeria Army University, which is arguably the best on the continent.

One can safely say without any fear of contradiction that the former COAS initiated the new birth of vibrant and sophisticated military elite through this creativity; obviously, he has written his name in gold in the sand of time.

Comrade Sulaimon Suberu

National Coordinator .

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Buhari: Kachikwu’s Books Attest to Our Government’s Transparency in Oil Sector

*Ex-minister a gift to us all, says Osinbajo

President Muhammadu Buhari, last week, said the four books recently published and presented by his former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu, attested to details of his administration’s effort at ensuring transparency in the oil sector of the economy.

Buhari spoke during the virtual public presentation of the books, even as Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who gave a closing remark, described Kachikwu as “a gift to us all”.

Anchored by Richmond Osuji, the four books presented last Thursday were, Nigeria Petroleum Industry: 2015 to the Future; Gas Development in Nigeria: Legal and Policy Framework; Nigerian Foreign Investment Law and Policy and Nigerian Law of Contract: Study Companion.

Harping on the essence of Kachikwu’s new initiatives, Buhari said, “the books discuss the industry through the policy framework” of his administration, adding that when he assumed office in 2015, the oil sector was in dire straits.

According to him, the oil industry at the time he assumed office was obviously in need of reform if it must attract growth hence the responsibility to act fast and aggressively rested squarely on the shoulders of his government.

He, therefore, contended that the current transparency in the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) was a function of the administration’s conscious decision to combat corruption in the all-important sector, of which he has remained the substantive minister.

Buhari, however, said he was confident that the books would give insight into the policy framework and operations of the industry.

On his part, Osinbajo, who largely alluded to his personal relationship with the former minister especially, that he had always been at each of his book launches, the last of which he predicted that he had to present more books at once in his next effort, described Kachikwu as a prolific writer, with interest in romance publishing.

Rounding off after describing him as “a gift to us all”, Osinbajo added: “One day, it would be safe to write your memoires”.

In their goodwill messages, former Minister of Defence, TY Danjuma, noted that Kachikwu’s intellectual pedigree was well known to all from his days at Mobil, adding that he was not surprised that as a true scholar, he took time off to author the four books for posterity.

Kachikwu’s successor as minister, Timipre Sylva, also held the view that having worked closely with the president to achieve so much in the petroleum industry, the former minister’s policies remained at the foundation of their current work in the industry.

Others, who delivered goodwill messages, included the Secretary General of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Sanusi Barkindo, Minister of Mines and Hydrocarbon in Equatorial Guinea, Gabriel Obiang Lima and Secretary General of Africa Petroleum Producers’ Organisation, Omar Farouk.

Earlier in his opening remarks, Kachikwu, while welcoming everyone to the virtual book launch, noted that the whole idea was that people, who came after him, could borrow from his wealth of experience through documentation and be guided by some of the efforts of his leadership.

Also, in his vote of thanks, Kachikwu reiterated that the core idea behind the books was to help situate the role of policy and experience in assisting with research in the foreseeable future.

However, while the book, Nigerian Petroleum Industry – from 2015 to the future – was reviewed by Dr. Dayo Ayoade and presented by Barkindo, the book on Gas development in Nigeria: Legal and Policy Framework was reviewed by Dr. Peter Oniemola and presented by Mr. Abdulrasaq Isa.

Subsequently, the book on Nigerian Foreign Investment Law and Policy was reviewed by Dr. Toyin Adejonwo Osho and presented by Mr. Austin Avuru.

In the same breath, the book, Nigerian Law of Contract: Study Companion was reviewed by Dr. Kemi Omotubora and presented by the Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

GOV IKPEAZU CONDOLES WITH GOV EMMANUEL OVER STATE PDP CHAIRMAN, ORS
…Lauds Governor Emmanuel’s Industrialisation Drive


Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State his Abia State counterpart, Mr. Okezie Ikpeazu, who was in the State to condole with the government and people over the demise of some of their prominent citizens including the former military governor, Otuekong Idongesit Nakanga, and the State Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Obong Udo Ekpenyong.

While receiving the Abia governor at the Government House, Uyo, yesterday, Governor Udom Emmanuel expressed the gratitude of the government and people of his state for the kind gesture and words of the Abia State Chief Executive and to PDP family in Abia.

He revealed that Akwa Ibom people have been thrown into intense grief following recent passing of their great sons, affirming that death remains an inevitable destiny and a mystery.

He prayed for equivalent replacements for the ones lost and appealed to citizens to take responsibility and be more cautious in view of the present situation in the world.

"The worst mystery that God created that no man can understand is the mystery of death. Everyone that is born is bound to die. We really cannot question God. We just hope that God will help us and God does not lack a substitute ever in life, when he removes, he replaces, so our prayer is that those that he has removed, he may replaces with another that will be a 100 fold.

"This is also a message to so many of us, that as we are alive, nothing is worth losing your soul for; that’s an event nobody can control”.


Earlier, Governor Ikpeazu, who communicated the deep feeling of the government and people of Abia state to the Akwa Ibom governor, said despite the sadness occasioned by the events, it remains incumbent on God’s people to accept the events as God’s deed and share love at such times, hence his visit.

"It is with heavy heart that I bring this message of condolence from the people of Abia State on the occasion of the demise of some of your great people. It’s a very sad event but as a child of God ours is to love those that God has blessed us with in this life and stay together, but it is God’s probity in time to harvest his own. He owns every person and he knows about everything”.

The Abia Governor however lauded Governor Emmanuel’s giant strides in the areas of industrialization and job creation. These, he described as sustainable and trans-generational development and encouraged him, Emmanuel, to stay focus on his completion agenda.

“I wish to also commend you for your great strides especially in the areas of job creation and industrialization. It is my prayer and desire that our people will begin to see gradually, some of the trans-generational projects you have embarked upon. Unfortunately for us in this country, we are very short-sighted and tend to celebrate palliative measures rather than sustainable development, but as a child of God I will encourage to continue to stick to your agenda”, Ikpeazu said.

Decrying the difficulty he encountered in moving from the neighbouring Abia to Akwa Ibom State by road, Governor Ikpeazu sued for complementary interventions by the federal government to enhance easy transportation among sister states for purpose of trade and off-taking of products from cottage industries, while praying for more grace from God for the Akwa Ibom governor in line with his sincerity of purpose.

" I want to pray that our country will see the good works that you are doing and complement it just by helping us to have access to one another. It took me nearly three hours to get to this place.

This is unfortunate. I don’t know what will happen when it starts raining. We are pleading and we are appealing. All that our people ask for is to be able to move from one location to another so that products from those many factories you are building will find their ways to the people in the cities”, said Governor Ikpeazu.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

YOU HAVE INDELIBLE MARKS ON YOUR TRAIL.

Olowu kuta describes General Buratai's tenure as epical..

The Olowu of Kuta,Oba Ahmed Adekunle Oyelude,Tegbosun 11 has expressed delight that ,the retiring service chief,Lt General Tukur Buratai has left the military better than he met it.

The traditional ruler stated this today in a message of congratulations to the retired Army chief.

"The immediate past chief of Army staff ,Lt General Tukur Buratai is bowing out of the military with clean service records which aspiring officers should emulate.."

Oba Oyelude recalled the exemplary exploits of the immediate past chief of Army staff in the face of serious security challenges posed by
Bokko Haram and other terror groups in different parts of the country.

While acknowledging the pressures of insecurity on the socio -economic and political health of the nation, the Royal father saluted the courage and commitment of the army led by the former chief of army staff towards preserving the peace, unity and territorial integrity of the country.

Oba Oyelude particularly noted the selfless service and dedication of General Buratai to the execution of the government's national security policy, especially in the areas of integration of Nigerians of diverse cultural, religious and political groups and ensuring that they co-exist within the ambit of the law.

The traditional ruler recalled the role of the former chief of staff Nigerian Army for responding positively to the wish of his subjects by constructing the link bridge between kuta and Ede which was left undone for several years..

The Olowu of Kuta described the positive response of the Nigerian Army to the construction of kuta-Ede bridge as "novel in community service" to which current and future generations of kuta indigenes will always cherish..

The traditional ruler commended president Muhammadu Buhari for giving General Buratai and his colleagues the opportunity to put in their best in the service of the nation.

While, wishing the retired Army chief blissful retirement, Oba Oyelude expressed hope that the incoming service chiefs will build on the legacies of their predecessors.

cc: mynd44

Udo Ekpenyong: A'Ibom PDP declares one-week mourning.

The Peoples Democratic Party in Akwa Ibom has declared a one-week mourning period, effective January 25, 2021, following the death of the State Chairman of the Party, the late Obong (Hon.) Udo Ekpenyong.

According to a statement of the decision reached by the State Working Committee, SWC of the Party and signed by the State Deputy Chairman, Rt.(Hon.) Lawrence Udosen, the party has directed that flags in the PDP flags in the State Secretariat Complex, as well as those at the Chapter and Ward offices must be flown at half mast.

The State Working Committee of the Party in the statement added that "for a selfless and forward-thinking leader like the late Obong Udo Ekpenyong, no demonstration of grief will ever be too much."

While praying that the special grace of God will be sufficient for the bereaved family as they wade through this period of excruciating grief, the PDP in Akwa Ibom also urged all members of the party to continue to stay safe and strictly observe all subsisting Covid-19 safety protocols.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Rivers Gov commiserates AKSG over party chair, PANDEF chair's death, ors

...the secret of my relationship between Gov. Emmanuel & I - Gov. Wike


Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has commiserated with the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel over the recent loss of prominent indigenes of the state.

Wike described the death of the State Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Mr. Udo Ekpenyong and the Director General of Governor Emmanuel’s two terms Divine Mandate organization and Chairman of Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, Air Commodore Idongesit Nkanga rtd., as a grave loss not just to Akwa Ibom State but the entire South-South region and the party which, he said, is Nigeria’s hope.

The Rivers State Governor who was on a condolence visit to Governor Emmanuel at Hilltop Mansion, Government House Uyo, on Thursday said what touches Akwa Ibom touches Rivers state.

Hear him, “what I came here is that the Governor Udom has lost two three prominent sons of Akwa Ibom State, the most painful is the former two times Director-General of his campaign organisation and the Chairman of PANDEF and then his party Chairman which is also my party and the hope for this country is PDP, I said no what affects him, affects me, what touches Akwa Ibom touches Rivers state”. He stated.

According to Wike, Idongesit Nkanga’s death was unfortunate, untimely and a sad event for both the people of Akwa Ibom and Rivers states, explaining that the loss is happening in a time when he had become a strong voice in the Niger-Delta and was at the frontline of agitations for the restructuring of Nigeria.

He however encouraged Governor Emmanuel to draw consolation from the word of God and hold onto his faith as a Christian, adding that only God is all-knowing and cannot be questioned by man over what he has allowed, while assuring that he and the Rivers State Government will be fully involved in all levels of the funeral arrangements for the two.

On the premium he places on his relationship with the Akwa Ibom governor, Wike said Udom Emmanuel has earned his respect and the love of his people by his integrity in keeping his promises to his people and his political associates was endearing and exemplary. He described Governor Emmanuel’s developmental strides as impressive while also describing the governor, as a man who loves his people.

“Governor Udom Emmanuel is my brother, he is a man of his words, if he tells you that he will do something you can go home and sleep with your two eyes closed, again Governor Udom Emmanuel has the interest of the people of the Niger Delta at heart particularly the people of Akwa Ibom State as we were coming in today, I told the Chief of Staff that Akwa Ibom is competing with Rivers State with what I have seen it is unbelievable”.

Responding, Governor Udom Emmanuel, thanked Governor Wike and other state governors in the Niger Delta region for identifying with him in the period of grief, describing his relationship with Wike as what he values beyond their tenures in office.

He described the departed two-time DG of his governorship campaign organisation, Idongesit Nkanga and the State PDP Chairman as men of proven integrity and loyalty, adding that the news of Nkanga’s death, in the peak of the yuletide, threw the state into an unimaginable grief.

In his words, “For a man to be your two term DG, he must have proven a high level of loyalty and integrity. If Idongesit Nkanga says he loves you in front, know that he loves you all round, both in front and behind you. He was a man of that kind of integrity, character and personality. You could see, even in the South-south, he never had any wall of discrimination”.

“My party Chairman also, in fact when they are introducing him, they call him Mr. Loyalty. He was that loyal. He has served the party both at the state and the national levels. In short, if you want any definition for loyal, just look for Hon. Udo Ekpenyong, you’ll certainly get that anytime any day. It’s so painful”, Emmanuel said.

The Akwa Ibom Governor also bemoaned that the state, within the period has lost a former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Nsikak Eduok and former Commissioner for lands in the state Executive Council, Architect Ime Ekpo, adding that the state is pained that four of her very good people are to be buried within the same period.

He however accepted to be consoled with the fact that every man has a set time by God to quit the earth, despite the pain, and restated his resolve to continue to provide leadership for the people of the state, with the hope that God will give the state beauty for ashes.

Governor Emmanuel therefore called on all governors, leaders and stakeholders of the Niger Delta region to join him and the people of Akwa Ibom State for the funeral ceremony in honour of the PANDEF Chairman, scheduled for February 6, 2021.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

“We Are Watching Your Back “ Olowu of Kuta speaks on why dependants of fallen heroes must not suffer

The Olowu of Kuta,Oba Adekunle Oyelude Tegbosin 11 in Aiyedire local government of Osun state has lauded the leadership of the Nigerian Armed forces for sustaining the culture of care and protection for their serving and retired officers and men in their patriotic duties of defending the territorial integrity of the country..
Oba Oyelude gave the commendation in his goodwill message to the authorities of the Nigerian armed forces on this years armed forces and rememberance day celebrations.

In a release titled, "we are keeping your back", the traditional ruler particularly noted the painstaking efforts of the Chief of Army staff,Lt Gen Tukur Burantai for providing inspiring leadership to the rank and file and for identifying with the plights of families of soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice of saving lives and properties of the citizens.

Oba Oyelude appreciates the immerse roles of the armed forces for securing the country from threats and ravages of Bokko Haram insurgents despite daunting challenges, with hopes that the determination by authorities of the Nigerian Armed forces will continue to safeguard the country from attacks within and outside her borders and provide the needed security for her citizens to live in peace amongst themselves.

The Olowu of Kuta charge the rank and file of the armed forces to continue to key into the philosophy of a united indivisible Nation as contained in the chief of Army staff address which harped on morale boosting and keeping in touch with families and dependents of the fallen heroes.
The traditional ruler is hopeful that with the zeal of army personnel engaged in anti terror wars in the Northern parts of the country, peace and security will be restored and Nigerians will again be free to pursue their legitimate businesses without let or hindrance.

The Olowu of Kuta called on well meaning Nigerians to continue to contribute to the welfare of families left behind by soldiers who put their lives on the line to protect their country.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Armed Forces Remembrance Day: Gov Emmanuel calls for unity and equal opportunity in Nigeria

Governor Udom Emmanuel has called on Nigerians not to fan the embers of alienation and divisions in the country, but to help create a nation of equal opportunities.

The governor made this appeal while delivering his speech during the 2021 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration at the Uyo Cenotaph, earlier today.

According to him, the building blocks remain the common humanity, where ethno-religious passions are subsumed by the ennobling ideals of tolerance and diversity of ideas, culture and ethos.

"​Let us work to create a nation where talents trump geography, where we strive to reward the best and encourage all to dream and strive; a nation where our youths are conditioned by the passion of volunteerism, of applying ideas to create wealth as opposed to a cradle-to-grave entitlement mind-set.

"Let us create a nation where a certain Akpan from Akwa Ibom State can in future aspire to be voted into office in Kaduna State or where an Abubakar from Katsina State can be a Senator representing my Eket Senatorial District in the National Assembly".

He noted that Nigeria can begin the conversation of the future, beginning today "and let the idea sink in the consciousness of leaders because if the Western World can knit their diversity in a tapestry of common values and brotherhood given the history of ultra-nationalistic foundations of those societies and today, have turned their societies into a beacon of multiculturalism, Nigeria can replicate same."

"When we guarantee an equality of aspirations and create a level playing field, the resort to the drum beat of ethno-religious conflicts and other agitations which had led to certain conflicts, for which these noble and gallant Nigerians gave their lives to neuter, will certainly be replaced by the sweet symphonies of love, brotherhood and oneness. May affliction never visit us a second time", he submitted.
Governor Emmanuel used the occasion to assure the Armed Forces of continuous partnership and collaboration between his government and the military.

He maintained that his administration has worked in close collaboration with the Armed Forces establishment to add value to the improvement of the living standards of the service men.

"In year 2019, we fulfilled a promise I made when I visited one of our military formations at Ibagwa and saw the acute need to intervene in the improvements of the living conditions of our gallant and brave soldiers.

"I had made a promise to remodel and renovate blocks of flats for the officers and men of the Battalion. The first phase of the renovated blocks of flats were handed over to the Battalion in 2019 and last year, we also handed over additional blocks of flats, bringing the total blocks of flats so far remodelled to 168.

"We have also done the water reticulation to improve the quality of water in the barrack. We are working hard to ensure that power and other quality of live amenities are upgraded in the barrack. We are determined God willing, to replicate this gesture across other layers of our security architecture", he stated.

The Governor stated that the occasion is unique as the nation gathers to honour bravery, valour and unbridled spirit of patriotism displayed by gallant Nigerians whose blood and toll helped water the trees and fountains of our unity and cords of brotherhood.

"Every year, at various locations spread all over the vast expanse of this great Nation, grateful Nigerians will gather on this day, to celebrate the gallantry, bravery, sacrifice, deep spirit of volunteerism and patriotic fervour of the men and women who elected without conscription, to sign up to defend the territorial integrity of this Nation.

"By accepting that singular patriotic act, these men and women of valour and bravery agreed to pay the ultimate price so the freedom and peace we enjoy today may not be compromised or put in jeopardy".

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Akwa Ibom's 21 high rise Smart Building, popularly known as the Dakkada Tower in Uyo, is Nigeria's most technologically advanced and IT compliant building in the country, former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has declared.

Obasanjo stated this on Saturday during an inspection tour of the smart building while on a private visit to the State, accompanied by his host, Governor Udom Emmanuel and senior government officials.

Chief Obasanjo who was shown round the building by Governor Udom Emmanuel in company of the Commissioner for Special Duties, Rt. Hon. Okpulupm Etteh and the technical crew handling the Dakkada Tower project, congratulated Governor Udom Emmanuel on his developmental strides in the state.

The elder statesman noted with admiratioin the ease of maintenance effected in the building, stressing that the sophisticated facilities would attract business and development to the state.

According to Obasanjo, “It’s not just thoughts but what I have seen, I have seen a number of buildings in Nigeria but in terms of modern technological facilities embedded in a building of this nature, this is probably one of the best if not the best that I have seen in the country. When you have a building like this, business will come in, when businesses come in , prosperity will continue in the state and I congratulate the governor for bringing this type of building to Akwa Ibom and in the state capital”, he stated.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Gov Udom Emmanuel's enduring security strategies and sustainable peace in A'Ibom

By Emmanuel Sam

Security of life and property of citizens is a primary duty of any government. The absence of this attribute spells a world of anarchy. Thomas Hobbes, in his book 'Leviathan', visualized life in such a world as relentlessly insecure, brutish and short.

Accordingly, government in any clime strives to justify its existence as the protector of citizens from violence and harm.

In Akwa Ibom State, Governor Udom Emmanuel has effectively employed three enduring strategies toward curbing insecurity and sustaining peace in the State. These startegies include education, healthcare and job creation.

In 2018, while declaring open the second quarterly meeting organised by the office of the Secretary to Government of the Federation (SGF) for Secretaries to States Government (SSGs) at Ibom Hotels and Golf Resort, Uyo, Governor Emmanuel gave the panacea for insecurity in the country.

“Government exists to provide services to the people across the nation; failure to abide by this need and demand means a grave abdication of a cardinal responsibility, and the resultant effect would be deep apathy and a resort to self help approaches by the citizens, and that would not be good for us as a country.

“I strongly believe, as a country, we still have so much to do in the areas of education and healthcare. Because, if we can, at least, provide the basic needs of Nigerians, a whole lot of security and social problems would have been solved in this country." He said.

Well, the governor has put his money where his mouth is. He has set an unparalleled record in healthcare deliver and in securing the lives of Akwa Ibom people. Aside from refurbishing long neglected hospitals across the State and equipping them with state-of-the-art medical equipment, he ensured that the workforce is properly trained and motivated to work.

His intervention at Ibom Specialist Hospital saved that magnificent edifice and the rare medical machines installed there from mismanagement and abuse. Today, it stands tall among the best referral medical institions in the country.
All through the first wave of Covid-19, Governor Udom Emmanuel fought tenaciously to maintain a low infection curve in the State. He made even more investment to prime the heatlh care system foolproof attracting accolades from World Health Organization, WHO and Nigeria Center for Disease Control, NCDC. Nobody can fault his achievements in this direction.

In the education sector, the governor has invested in both formal and informal forms of education, going to the length of adopting the free and compulsory education policy of his predecessor, accepting to offset huge liabilities incurred by it. He also went on to invest millions of Naira in registering qualified pupils and students for their certificate examination.

In order to better understand the sector and redirect it towards the 21st century needs, he convened the first ever education summit where stakeholders sat down with him to discuss the challenges faced in the sector and proffer solutions.

Currently, State government has set up an implementation committee headed by the renowned educationist, Professor Hilary Inyang, to breakdown recommendations from the summit into set attainable goals with timelines.

The State Commissioner for Economic Development and Ibom Deep Seaport, Akan Okon explained in an interview granted redently how the challenge of unemployment among youths is being addressed by the administration. According to him, one of several ways Governor Emmanuel is tackling unemployment is by establishing manufacturing companies and firms across the State in partnership with the private sector.

When Governor Emmanuel emerged, he vowed to change the narrative in Akwa Ibom from a civil service economy to a bustling private sector driven economy. So far, he has endeavoured to attract investors who have set up many firms and companies in the State. These companies are offering employment opportunities to Akwa Ibom people much more than the civil service could.

With many youths gainfully engaged, the State has remained generally peaceful these past five years with everyone going about their business. However, since we do not exist in isolation, Akwa Ibom State recently experienced an invasion from enemies of the State who were bent on causing mayhem, creating insecurity and a general sense of foreboding among citizens across the State.

It does not need a forensic analysis or crystal ball to connect this to recent upheaval in the State to the worsening national recession and #endsars protest which resulted in near anarchy and looting of public and private property across the country.

Obviously, criminal elements who benefitted from that brief period of mass hysteria and a demoralized personnel, fantasize on how to outsmart the State security architecture and have a field day. Their momentary plunder emboldened them to embark on more daring expeditions, staging heists on broad daylight.

Being fully aware of these dynamics, Governor Emmanuel proactively held an emergency security council meeting, where he took the decision was foil further attempts to breach the prevailing peace and security of the State. He reactivated the joint security task force and comprehensively rejigged the State security paraphernalia.

As reported by several national and state based news dailies, the meeting culminated in handing over of 30 new patrol trucks with full complement of communication gadgets to the Police and other security agencies to boost crime-fighting in the State. The governor promised more of such trucks to be donated in batches untill they add up to 100.

This is exactly how Governor Emmanuel tackles issues; head on. He faces problems and proffers timely solutions. Already, his meeting with security agencies is yielding success; several criminal hideouts have been raided, robberies have been foiled and arrests made. The outlaws are finding the hard way that Akwa Ibom State is not an easy take after all.


Governor Emmanuel is not deterred by naysayers and arm chair critics. His focus is fixed on achieving his Completion Agenda, of which sustainable peace is part of. With investments made by providing sound and affordable health care, accessible education and jobs opportunities, there is the assurance of a sustained peace while a reenergized security force enforce law and order on daily basis. The challenge is thus on our youths to rise up, abandon vices which tend to breed insecurity and get involved productively.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Gov Emmanuel secures final approval for Ibom Deep Seaport
... construction to kickstart immediately


Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State has fulfilled a key part of his campaign promise to ensure the completion of the Ibom Deep Seaport project before the end of his administration as evidenced by the securing of the final approval for commencement of the project.

Approval of the Full Business Case of the project by the Federal Executive Council on Wednesday signalled a completion of series of approvals for the prime A¹ project which has outlasted two previous administrations until this cheery news today.

Since his emergence, Governor Emmanuel has invested enormous energy, business contacts and resources toward acquiring requisite approvals for the commencement of the project because he believes it will greatly enhance the state’s economy and create vast employment opportunities for Nigerians.

During his state-wide broadcast to mark the 33rd anniversary of the state, in Uyo, the Akwa-Ibom state capital, earlier in the year, the governor vowed that his administration will secure a breakthrough for the project, revealing that government was working hard to ensure cooperation with all the regulatory agencies in fulfillment of this desire.

Speaking to this reporter on implications of the latest and final approval for the Ibom Deep Seaport, the Commissioner for Economic Development and Deep Seaport, Mr. Akan Okon disclosed that since "port construction is on the Exclusive List the Ibom Deep Seaport needed to be approved by the Federal Government.

"It started with an OVC and approval of the procurement process, we then moved to the setting up of the Ministerial Project Development Steering Committee made up of representatives from the Federal Ministry of Transport, Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Nigerian Port Authority (NPA) and Federal Ministry of Finance.

"This committee approved the procurement process for the port which included issuance of request for qualification, request for proposal from prospective bidders. Eventually, those that submitted were evaluated and a preferred bidder emerged by name Bollore/Power China.

"With that emergence, we needed to prepare a Full Business Case for the development of Ibom Deep Seaport, which is what has been approved by the Federal Executive Council today for Ibom Deep Seaport to commence construction".

The Commissioner further revealed that with the final approval the project will kick start almost immediately, adding "this is what we've been waiting for. We have a preferred bidder in place and even as the process of approval was ongoing we had appointed a technical team to carry on with the various studies required for the construction of the port jointly between the State government and the preferred bidder".

He emphasized that Governor Udom Emmanuel has fulfilled his promise to Akwa Ibom people as regards the project and with this approval all activities required to commence the project will be in fast track.

"I'm very certain that within the tenure of His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel, we'll receive the first vessel in that port. I want to give glory to God first and then commend our godsent Governor for his tireless commitment and determination to actualize this project and of course, the Federal Executive Council under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari ( GCFR) for this approval.

"The Governor believes strongly that we've very determined and intelligent young people in this State who must be gainfully employed and he believes that the Ibom Deep Seaport will provide such opportunities which is why he has not relented in committing resources to ensure the actualization of the project".

Mr. Okon also disclosed that the governor is very happy with this feat just as every well meaning Akwa Ibom citizen who knows what such a project means to our economy should be happy.

"My advise to our people especially the youth is that we don't have to wait for the project to kickstart for us to start preparing for the emerginng opportunities. Now that approval has finally been secured, we should upgrade our knowledge and obtain relevant skills that will be required, from construction to operation of the port, so that we can meet qualifications to work there."

In addition, he urged Akwa Ibom citizens within the State and in Diaspora to seize opportunity in the port to invest in development of the State.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44