₦airaland Forum

The founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ety Isaiah Foundation, Pastor Ety Isaiah has said, giving Akwa Ibom people a quality live is not only the responsibility of the state government, rather, it is the duty of every well-meaning citizen of the state.

The cleric of the Apostolic Church of North America who stated this while responding to questions from our correspondent, revealed that Ety Isaiah Foundation is an International Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) whose commitment is to give the people of Akwa Ibom and the world in general a better life.

He noted that the Foundation was first established in the United State in 2016 and was brought to Nigeria in 2020 to curb the impact of COVID-19 on the economic life of Akwa Ibom people. Speaking on the legal status, Pastor Ety disclosed that the Foundation is registered with the US and the Nigerian Government.

“Generally, Africans think that it is the responsibility of the government to provide everything for the citizens and it is the reason African countries are where they are. Ety Isaiah Foundation is out with a different philosophy to contribute meaningfully to the less privilege, orphans, and the elderly in the areas of healthcare, economic and educational development.

“Giving out is a gift and most of the people lacks it. To this foundation, Gift is a ministry and we are committed to it. In this way, we have solve the problem of many and still growing by God’s special grace,” he said.

Reminiscing on some of the giant strides of Ety Isaiah Foundation in Akwa Ibom State, “we did a project in July back in Nsit Ibom LGA and had treated more than 500 community members in a free healthcare. This Foundation secured a two room complex for a woman who lost her house to fire and bought a car for a driver who lost his children to a house fire with many more,” he made this known.

Early this year, in an attempt to secure quality education for children, particularly orphans, the Foundation partnered with a groups to donate sandals to a school in Itu LGA. Recently, the same foundation visited Eyesana Primary School in Nsit Ubium LGA of Akwa Ibom State and donated sandals, exercise books, pens and pencils to pupils. Mrs. Eno Umoh the Head Teacher poured encomiums on Pastor Ety Isaiah and his foundation and prayed for God’s blessings in his life and family.

In an attempt to develop human capacity, the foundation have trained 6 persons in Cake baking & Music (keyboard) who are currently, making a living out of it. The founder also disclosed that more than 6 mattresses and other food items were donated to Orphanage home in uyo early this year.

In the aspect of economic development, Pastor Isaiah through his Foundation early in the year embarked on what he called “fuel giveaway” to some of the industrial hub in Akwa Ibom State, which includes, Eket, Nsit Ubium, Uyo and Etinan LGAs. According to him, this was to curtail the influence of fuel hike on prices of commodities and services.

In the same development, Pastor Isaiah disclose that what inspired him to delve into this ministry is the parental teachings and upbringing. In his words, “I was taught by my parents that giving is a form of worship and it opens a lot of doors for one. I remember when I was a child, anytime my parents would go to visit people they will carry a bottle of wine and yam, never went empty handed. As I grew up, I joined these values with the vision God gave me to help the less privileged and I knew I needed to establish something that would put a smile on the faces of our people.”

The cleric further said, “his humanitarian services is not political as people may conceive. This mentality is only found and seen in Africa. Giving should not only be an act of political campaign. So, away with the political ambition. If I become a Governor, mayor, chairman or anything, the money in the treasury will be gone cos I will make sure everyone have a better life. I am not interested in any political office. I have too much on my shoulders at the moment,” he revealed.

The Founder, however, called on well meaning citizens of the State, interested organisations, profit and non profit to partner with Ety Isaiah Foundation in order to advance the course while adding that the Foundation can only reject partnership is if it is in connection with any Lobbying entity.

.... Commends provision of 50b hazard allowance for medical personnel

..... Lauds increase in statutory transfer to judiciary


Member representing Etinan/ Nsit Ibom/ Nsit Ubium Federal Constituency, Mr Onofiok Luke has expressed concern over the sum of N3.9 trillion earmarked for debt servicing in the 2022 Appropriation Bill before the National Assembly.

Luke who was speaking during the debate on the 2022 Appropriation Bill on the floor of the House of Representatives said that it is worrisome to have an amount which represents almost 25 percent of the whole budget allocated for debt servicing.

According to Luke, "another source of concern is that the proposal before us has a deficit of N6.2 trillion and government is proposing new borrowings to finance this deficit. What this implies is that total public debt of Nigeria is expected to rise to N5 trillion in 2022 fiscal year. This is worrisome not only for today but generations unborn and the future of Nigeria".

In his opinion he held that debt parameters should be revenue- debt ratio and not debt - GDP ratio as revenue pays debt and not GDP.


"Let us do what we can to try to reduce the deficit and how we can reduce borrowing", Luke said.

The lawmaker warned against borrowing for consumption. "There is nothing wrong with borrowing provided we borrow and put it for production not for consumption. So as we begin to look at it let us take the future generations of Nigeria into consideration while we get to borrow and make sure the borrowing are being put into productive ventures".

He urged the federal government to channel the sum borrowed towards investment in critical sectors like power and roads.

Luke also stated that recovered looted funds can help reduce the rate of borrowing. "We are talking about recoveries of loot and misappropriated funds, if we apply these it can help in reducing our deficits and borrowings" .


He commended the Federal Government for the plausible recommendations in the budget. "My constituents have asked me to share and then appreciate and look at it and commend it. One of them is the provision of about 50 billion for hazard allowance for medical personnel"


"We commend this effort of the federal government to capture this. I believe that this would stem the tide of industrial action in the health sector in 2022".

"Another provision in the budget that is commendable is the statutory to the national Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure. The world is going technology and we need to be in pace with how the world is moving and I want to commend Mr President and commend the FEC for looking at this perspective to try to have a statutory transfer for the agency", Luke said


Addressing the the plight of Nigerians, Luke stated that, "the target of 13 percent inflation is not feasible, but what is achievable is that we should try to have a mechanism that would address the cost of food, cooking gas, and electricity bill. In this case, there should be provision for metres and we should make sure we cater for Nigerians in this regard"

He also drew the attention of the federal government to the poor state of Calabar - Itu road. According to him "Calabar -Itu road that area is being cut off. People spend 8 hours on the road. And we have seen something less than a billion naira allotted to that road in the different lots that have been given. That is quite inadequate. We have to invest in our road and in our public transportation".

Luke who is also the Chairman House Committee on Judiciary lauded the increase in the statutory transfer to the judiciary.

"Before now we have been crying for increased and improved welfare for judicial officers and we have asked the FG to try to increase the statutory transfer to the national judicial council so our judges and judicial officers can be taken care of, our courts can be equipped and then we can make provision for technology in our courts so that we can be at par with others and adopt best practices and be at par with advanced democracies that we see".

"The increase of statutory transfer by 10 billion to the national judicial council to take up the judiciary is quite commendable" Luke said.

Luke also advocated that the oil price benchmark in the proposal be increased. "The pegging of oil price at 57 dollars per barrel is totally quite very low. It is not sustainable. Permit to add that in the last three years since 2018, we have had a year high at an average of about 60 dollars per barrel. So we should be advocating that there should be the upping of the pegging of 57 dollars per barrel to 60 per barrel", Luke said.

He commended his colleagues for always working to achieve a budget cycle of January to December since 2019.


Media Office
Etinan /Nsit Ibom/ Nsit Ubium Federal Constituency.

14/10/2021

In a bit to ensure that the future of our upcoming generation is secured, pastor Ety Isaiah a USA based pastor and the beggeter of Ety Isaiah Foundation today 13th October, 2021 donates to educational materials to the pupils of Eyieasana Primary School in Nsit Ibom local government area of Akwa Ibom State.

Mr Nduehe Effiong who represented the founder of the foundation said their visit to the school was in fulfilment of the foundation's objective of providing qualitative education to rural dwellers especially the vulnerables.

In his words: “Our children need the best of the best when it comes to education. We need to care for our future leaders”

The EIF team which had Esther Usua, Mrs Grace Iniubong and Abraham Brown were received by the Head Teacher of the school; Mrs Eno Umoh who thanked Pastor Ety and his team for having the pupils of her school in mind described the gesture as the first ever in their, Mrs Umoh while speaking further thanked the Team and prayed for God continuous blessings and favour upon pastor Ety and his entire team.

Items presented ranges from exercise books, school sandals, pen, pencils, crayon among others.

#EIF
#ForTheLoveOfHumanity

The dream of an improved healthcare delivery system for the people of Ikot Ekpene local government in Akwa Ibom State has finally been realised with the unveiling of a state of the arts modern secondary hospital and referral center for the area.

The 117 years old Ikot Ekpene General Hospital which had suffered years of neglect and dilapidation, was an eyesore until Governor Emmanuel commenced intervention exercise last year.

At the inauguration ceremony which attracted former President Goodluck Jonathan, Governor Udom Emmanuel assured the people of the state of his committment to the upgrading and reconstruction of healthcare facilities, security of lives and property and manpower development.

He said his administration believes that these three fundamental elements determine and shape the social contract and have tackled these crucial areas with "messianic zeal and the results are there for any discerning or dispassionate mind and eye to see."


Governor Emmanuel, who was represented by his deputy, Mr Moses Ekpo, expressed gratitude to the former president for honouring his invite.

"We are grateful that President Jonathan, consented to helping commission the Phase 1 of our reconstructed General Hospital, Ikot Ekpene, which has facilities that are comparable to any such center, anywhere in the world.

"The commissioning of this General Hospital is a fulfilment of a campaign promise I made, to establish world class secondary health care facilities (general hospitals) in all Ten Federal Constituencies in the State.

"With today’s event, we have completed and commissioned to the glory of God, all but one, Ikot Abasi, which work is on-going", he added.

He further said that his goal is to build a future for a new Akwa Ibom State, where industrialisation, infrastructure, human capital development, healthcare and soft infrastructure will put the state on the spotlight as a reference point on how to utilize the resources available to impact lives and create sustainable growth.

The former President of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Jonathan in his speech lauded the governor for completely redesigning the hospital as part of measures towards providing adequate health care delivery to Akwa Ibomites.

"I'm glad to be here at this time, It's good we are partnering with NMA as the commence their health week.

"I commend the Governor for refurbishing this hospital and also the security aspect considering the state of security in the country today, the Covid-19 pandemic has also opened the eyes of people that health should not be taken for granted.

He also commended the leadership of Ikot Ekpene for been committed to the development of the area through their cooperation with the Government to protect these enormous projects.

The Commissioner for Health,Prof Augustine Umoh eulogised Governor Emmanuel for giving priority to the health sector while giving insight to facilities in the hospital.

He listed the components to include the newly constructed storey building administration block, emergency unit, out-patient department, more conducive environment, power infrastructure through provision of a new generator and solar energy machines, male wards, female wards, ultrasound, x-rays, pediatric unit, theatres, motorised beds, manpower of over 30 Doctors and still recruiting more.

In their messages of goodwill, the former Senator representing Ikot-Ekpene Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, and the House of Representatives Member for Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Nsikak Ekong and the Chairman of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Council, Hon. Unyime Etim, took turns to eulogise Governor Emmanuel for transforming the once dilapidated hospital to world class standard and for the numerous projects scattered across the Iocal government area.

Hon Nsikak Ekong who recalled his ordeal at the General hospital years back said that when a leader loves his people, the outcome is sustainable development.

" I come from Ikot Ekpene and I know how bad this place was. I remember when my friend had an accident, the emergency unit was bad, if I had left him here, he would have died.

" Thank you for coming to our aid, we will support you till completion, I wish it was possible to do a third term, we would have wanted you to continue.

"When Covid-19 came, the whole country was locked down, most states where erecting tents as isolation centers, but you built a world class isolation center in six weeks.

" Few weeks ago , my aide who dropped me off at the airport was coughing and I asked him, what was wrong and he said he was sick, I told him to run a test and it came out positive, after spending days at a facility in Abuja and with his condition deteriorating, I had him relocated to Akwa Ibom and he was moved to the isolation center at Ituk Mbang and today , Itoro Ekpe is here with me healthy, You have done so much for us", he said.

Also Speaking the President of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Innocent Ujah expressed excitement over the remodelled medical facility.

"We are here to mark the 2021 NMA Week, we are happy to be part of this process, building and ensuring our people get good medical facilities.
"I'm told that we have refurbished over eight hospital and this is the ninth.

"We appreciate the people of Ikot Ekpene for their support and also the Former President for coming around . We are flagging off our week, and we are happy to be part of this event", he added

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Patrick Eshiet, described Governor Emmanuel as a visionary leader, who has brought about enormous development and thanked God for the clement weather.

The Ikot Ekpene General Hospital was established in 1905 by the Methodist Church as a Health Post.


Media Unit,
Govt House, Uyo
Akwa Ibom State
12/10/21

As the world celebrates International Day of the Girl Child today Monday 11th October 2021, The Executive Chairman, Nsit Atai Local Government Council, Rt. (Hon) Lady Emem Ibanga in company of Top Government Officials of the Local Government toured four schools namely, Essien Itiaba Secondary School, Ikot Asua, Methodist Primary School, Ikot Akpabio, Primary School, Ikot Eket, Eastern Nsit Secondary School, Odot to celebrate with the girl child.

Hon. Emem Ibanga while speaking charged the children on the need to be focused, obedient, dedicated and innovative. She equally reminded students and teachers of this years United Nations theme which is Digital Generation, Our Generation and the need for the teachers to be digital in their communication and teaching style with the students as the world is rapidly evolving and the need for the students to be up to speed with the reality of today’s Digitalization.

The tour featured presentations of writing materials such as exercise books, pens, pencils, mathematical set, chalk and sanitary towels which were given to female students of higher classes. She equally expressed her love to the male counterparts as she presented same and football to them.

International Day of the Girl Child is an international observance day declared by the United Nations; it is also called the Day of Girls and the International Day of the Girl. October 11, 2012, was the first Day of the Girl Child.

#InternationalDayOfTheGirlChild

The member representing Etinan/Nsit Ibom/Nsit Ubium Federal Constituency Rt. Hon.(Barr.) Onofiok Luke has commended Governor Udom Emmanuel for turning around healthcare delivery in the state through massive revamping and equipping of hospitals. He has equally stressed on the need to extend same gesture to the Primary Healthcare level.

This, the lawmaker believes , will not only reduce mortality rate among the elders, pregnant women and children but will also decongest hospitals for effective service delivery and make for Universal Health Coverage.

Onofiok Luke who is a member of Congress of Former Legislators from Akwa Ibom State, made this known while sharing thoughts on the future leadership recruitment of the state, with the group in Uyo on Thursday.

“If we speak of the things that needs to be done, we are not implying that nothing had been done but only acknowledging the fact that there will always be room for further development and improvements on the already existing structure and achievements.

“The massive investment in the healthcare delivery has been in the secondary level, now the next investment will be at the primary healthcare level, which will cater for the teeming population of our people residing in the rural communities. Some of our people in the local areas are dying of avoidable diseases because our Primary HealthCare and Comprehensive Health centres have personnel and equipment challenges.

“Our future plan as a state should be to upgrade the School of Health Sciences and Technology in Etinan to the status of a college in order to meet up the requirement to train personnel needed to man Primary Health Care centres in the state.”
The lawmaker disclosed that it was on the basis of that foresight that led me to sponsor the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency bill as the speaker then and appreciated his my colleagues for passing the bill into law.

Barr. Luke commended Governor Udom Emmanuel for assenting to that bill to become law and setting up the agency with tested hands to manage it.

He explained that as Speaker of the Nigerian Youth Parliament, Personal Assistant to Governor, a-two term member , Chairman of various strategic committees and Speaker Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, and now member House of Representatives, he has garnered enough experience and understanding of the state, her people, the workings of governance and he is equipped to provide leadership at the highest political level in the state.

“Yours truly has had the opportunity from a matured perspective to closely observe three successive governments. By that, we have been positioned to know the success stories of those administrations, the modus operandi of their success stories and equally, the challenges those administrations faced. We have been sufficiently incubated in the leadership womb of the state and at the same time sufficiently schooled in her art of governance.

“We need to continue with industrialization, we need to continue with ten years educational plan initiated by this administration, we need to extend the frontiers of the Aviation sector and push the agenda towards making the Ibom Deep Seaport a reality”.

He hinted the group of his intent to put himself forward in the next leadership recruitment for the State.

“In the spirit of the moment, I’m consulting widely across the state to share thoughts and plans about the next stage of the development of the state and soon I will be making my intentions public. I will be seeking the support of Akwa Ibom people for the State’s plum job.

“Some people speculate I am seeking for a second term in the legislature, that’s far from the truth, I have never aimed at the moon to land on the stars, I aim at the moon and seek to land on the moon” My interest is in Governorship and not a second term in the House of Representatives “ So anything to the contrary is a political propaganda.
“We are passionate about the welfare of our people and the rapid development of our state.

“I urge you to use your network and political base to back one of you in this race. We have the requisite experience, exposure and the passion”. Onofiok Luke said.

The Akwa Ibom State Government has inaugurated a fourteen-membrr committee to monitor enforcement of the recently enacted "Law to prohibit Open Rearing and Grazing of Livestocks and Provide for the Establishment of Ranches and Livestock Administration, Regulation and Control, and Matters Connected therewith" in the state.

Performing the inauguration today, at the Government House, Uyo, the State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, clarified that the law is not targeted at any group of persons but was necessitated by the rising need to ensure orderly organization of agricultural activities across the country, including Akwa Ibom State.

This, he stated, would be in the best interest of the entire Nigerian populace who need both the vegetables and tubers of the crop farmer as well as the meat and dairy products of the livestock farmer to balance his diet, stressing that a healthy population makes a healthy nation.

"The typical staple food on the table of an average Nigerian is a symbiosis of livestock products and crops: the swallow such as our garri, pounded yam, amala, the meat, fish and the vegetables. ...the law is not anti any person. It is to make sure that we eat balanced diet, because if cattle destroys the vegetable component of what we eat, all the vitamins will be lost.When you ensure balanced diet, the population of Nigeria will be healthy and when the population is heathy we have a productive population".

He reiterated that, as stated while signing the bill into law on September 18, 2021, that the major objectives of this law is to promote modern techniques of animal husbandry, create job opportunities and expand the value chain in livestock business and promote the production of high quality of livestock in the state in accordance with international best practices, rather than a witch-hunt tool against anyone.

Highlighting the Committee's mandate therefore, the Governor said it shall, among other functions and powers, develop an integrated modern livestock development and production plan for the state, develop guidelines for the implementation of an integrated livestock production policy and make recommendations to the governor, consider and determine the suitability of a location proposed for establishment of a ranch in the state, ensure that livestock are reared at permitted ranches to prevent straying, impound any livestock that is left to graze outside a ranch and encourage peaceful coexistence between the ranchers, farmers and host communities.

The functions also include to prescribe guidelines for minimum hygiene standards for meat and dairy activities in personal, commercial and general ranches, inaugurate same committee at the Local Government level, give approval to the Local Government Committee for the establishment of Ranches in the Local Government Area, collaborate with relevant Ministries, Local Government Committee established under Section 12 and Department of Livestock at each LGA to ensure effective implementation of the Law in the State and any other functions incedental to the law or as may be directed by the State Governor.

Responding on behalf of the Committee members, the Chairman and Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet, thanked God for blessing the State with fertile soil and good environment that support both crops and livestocks farming. She commended the leadership of Governor Udom Emmanuel for ensuring peace in the State and taking steps to secure the agricultural sector in the State by protecting the interest of the various parties in the sector.

Dr. Edet assured that the committee will make the State proud by ensuring a balance of interest between the crop and animal farmers in the State, adding that the committee will work in synergy with security agencies to ensure the enforcement of the law in the state.

Also speaking, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Uko Udom, SAN, and a member of the committee, said the inauguration of the committee was the first step towards enforcement of the anti open grazing law.
He explained that the committee will soon constitute sub-committees for public enlightenment and information, monitoring and surveillance, enforcement and other functions, to enhance its effective operation, stressing that the law was vioid of any political element.

The Committee also has the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Mary Bassey as Secretary .Other members include; the Honorary Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Fubara Duke,Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security, Capt.Iniobong Ekong(rtd.),Permanent Secretaries in the Ministries of Lands and Water Resources,TPL.Aniekan Akpan(Ag.),Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs,Elder Ini Ikie ,Environment and Solid Minerals, Nsudo Nsudo and that of Health, Dr.Patrick Essiet. Also included in the Committee are the State Surveyor- General,Surv.(Mrs)Emem Isang ,Director of Verterinary Services and Livestocks,Ministry of Agriculture, Dr.Obot Obot, Director of Animal Husbandry, Ministry of Agriculture, Aniefiok Isong,Director of Forestry in the Ministry of Environment and Solid Minerals, Etido Eyo as well as the Director-General of the Akwa Ibom State Neighborhood Safety Agency,among others.

MEDIA UNIT
OFFICE OF THE SSG
08/10/2021

Ubong Sampson – Uyo

Proposing, through a motion, the upward review of judicial officers, Member Representing Etinan/Nsit Ubium/Nsit Ibom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Barr. Onofiok Luke, during plenary on Wednesday, held that starving judicial officers of funds can pose serious threats to the justice system in the country as the judges may find it difficult to maintain impartiality in the course of justice dispensation.

Luke back his position with a consideration of the Fifth Schedule (part one) to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and the Code of Conduct Tribunal Act which restrain judicial officers from generally receiving gifts and operating private businesses except farming, as well as the Code of Conduct for judicial officers which further limits their engagements by restricting them from maintaining certain social relationships and commenting publicly, all with the aim of insulating judicial officers from any form or semblance of corrupt practices and improper conduct.

He added that poor remuneration of judicial officers is a serious threat to the judiciary, which is a critical institution of the state and starving them of funds compromises their foundational functions and could present misfortune for our democracy as the judicial officers may not maintain impartiality and independence in the discharge of their judicial functions.

Describing as unfair, unconscionable, unjust and unrealistic, the fact that in the face of the several restrictions on the conduct of judicial officers, the judicial officers receive a meagre salary when compared with prevalent economic realities, Luke said the situation renders them vulnerable to corruption.

His motion also prayed the House to consider inflationary pressure and other economic factors that have depreciated the value of the naira by over 60 per cent, thereby causing the salary of judicial officers to become totally at variance with current economic realities.

He noted that the salary of judicial officers was last reviewed by Revenue Mobilization and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) in 2007 when the official exchange rate was N124 to $1 and the minimum wage was N5,000.

He said the House is aware that the budget for the judiciary has remained at N110 billion since 2017, while the total budget size has continued to grow, leading to gross underfunding and neglect of the Judiciary over the

years, which have affected productivity, increased frustration and deflated the morale of judicial officers and staff.

He explained that 13 years after the salary review of judicial officers, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), who is the most senior judicial officer in the country, earns N279,497 monthly, the Justices of the Supreme Court and the President of the Court of Appeal earn N206,425 monthly; Justices of the Court of Appeal earn N206,425 monthly, while Judges of the Federal High Court, National Industrial Court, FCT High Court, state High Courts, FCT Sharia Court of Appeal, FCT Customary Court of Appeal, Khadis of state Sharia Courts of Appeal and state Customary Courts of Appeal all earn N1.8 million each as their annual salary.

Adopting the motion, the House mandated the House Committee on Judiciary to work towards an amendment of the Certain Political, Public and Judicial Office Holder (Salary and Allowances) Act, by removing the remunerations of judicial officers from that of political and public office holders as well as ensure compliance with the aforementioned resolutions

The House also urged the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to immediately review the remuneration of judicial officers in line with the present economic realities, while urging the federal government to, in line with judicial autonomy, accede to the increase in statutory transfer for the judiciary in the coming fiscal year.

The House further gave the Judiciary Committee six weeks to carry out the assignment and report back for further legislative action.

As teachers all over the world celebrate World Teachers’ Day on October 5, Rt. Hon. Onofiok Akpan Luke, who represents the people of Etinan/Nsit Ubium/Nsit Ibom in the Federal House of Representatives joins to celebrate teachers.

Luke, in a message of felicitations titled: “In Celebration of Our Teachers,” recognised and appreciated the vital role of teachers in nurturing, teaching and educating the society;

“In line with UNESCO’s declaration of October 5 as World Teachers’ Day, it is my utmost pleasure to acknowledge the indispensable role of teachers in nation-building through moulding of characters.

“Ordinarily, teachers ought to be celebrated everyday because they play a very critical role in our daily lives. The impact of their contribution is timeless.

“I am particularly emotionally attached to this day because I was groomed by a teacher, my mother Deaconess Lawrencia Akpan Luke, before I had the experience of being taught by other teachers through formal education. Growing under her personal tutelage gave me a deep insight into the life and experiences of a teacher. I am certain that many of my contemporaries and even the younger generation, relish similar memories. For everything I am today, I owe it to God and my teachers.

“The theme of this year’s celebration “Teachers at the Heart of Education Recovery” is very timely considering the devastating impact of the coronavirus pandemic on education globally.

“Thankfully, in Akwa Ibom State, Governor Udom Emmanuel has made commendable efforts and investments in the education sector to give education a strong footing.

“Particularly, the Governor’s 10-year Educational Plan which is a vital part of the completion agenda, is aimed at securing the future of education in the state. As a plan that will outlive the administration, it is pertinent to build a template that will ensure its effective and full actualization, we seek to achieve it under Our GOAL for the FUTURE plan.

“By God’s grace, having the privilege of shouldering public service over the years, we have advocated education friendly policies that prioritizes the interest of both the learners and the teachers. I admit that there are still so much to be done, and we are not relenting. We will keep advocating a well-funded teaching service and other initiatives that will not only better our education but better the lives of our teachers. We are confident that through the AMAZING GRACE OF GOD, we will achieve OUR GOAL for THE FUTURE – United,EDUCATED, Prosperous and Healthy State under God.

“Happy World Teachers’ Day to our dear teachers.”

..INAUGURATES 25KM UYO-IKOT EKPENE DUALISED ROAD

Nigeria's Senate President, Dr. Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan has described Governor Udom Emmanuel as Nigeria's true symbol of peace unity, justice and progress, saying Akwa Ibom is indeed blessed to have him as the Governor at a time like this.

He says the Federal government has noted the Governor's sincerity of purpose and commitment to the economic development of Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking at Ikot Ekpene, Tuesday while performing the inauguration of the 25km Uyo-Ikot Ekpene road completed by the Udom Emmanuel led adminstration, the Senate President who said he was marveled at the development strides recorded in the state under the leadership of Governor Emmanuel even in the midst of prevailing economic challenges, observed that such feat was made possible because of the love he has for his people.

He praised the Governor for judiciously utilizing state resources in the development of the State, assuring of the readiness of the federal government to partner the Governor in the infrastructural development of the state.


Lawan assured the state that the National Assembly will interface with the Federal Minister of Works and other relevant offices for the reimbursement of funds expended by the state in fixing federal roads in the State.

"You are truly a pan Nigerian. You are leader, a Governor who believes in the unity of Nigeria. We are solidly behind the quest of making Nigeria a solid, united nation. Today this country is going through a challenging period. The kind of challenges we face in Nigeria requires that all hands must be on deck to surmount the myriad of challenges facing the country.

"I'm happy and so proud to be here. I have seen a real genuine, committed partner in the development of Nigeria.

"Mr. Governor, I want to thank you for opportunity to Commission this road.
Governor Udom Emmanuel is what I call justice. He is unity, he is peace, he is progress, he is development.

"And you are right in all actions you've taken. When this road was left at 20 percent, you took over the project for the love you have for the people of Ikot Ekpene in particular and Akwa Ibom in general. This is what Nigeria needs at this time.


"You did this because you want the people of Ikot-Ekpene and Akwa Ibom to have a good road, that's why you put in the resources of this state to complete this road. Your request for a reimbursement by the Federal Government is in order. You deserve refund. I will join you in talking to the Federal Minister of Works and Housing to call for a refund of money sunk in the road", Senator Lawan added.

Speaking earlier, Governor Udom Emmanuel while welcoming the Senate President to the project site, described the road as critically strategic to his Completion Agenda, and lauded the host communities where the project traverses for not stalling the progress of work on the road.

He appealed to the federal government to effect reimbursement to the State on the funds spent in constructing the federal roads in the state.

"The event of today is truly a joyous and happy day for me. This particular one;(Uyo-Ikot Ekpene road ) gives me an exceeding joy. This road remains critically strategic to our Completion Agenda".

Allaying fears over the state of the proposed Seaport project, the Governor assured that the project was on course, assuring that nothing would stop the actualization of the project.


"In this era where there is no money we are surviving. We are expecting a whole lot more from the Federal Government. We need to be supported, we need to be encouraged.

"The noise you are hearing on social media cannot stop development on the Ibom Deep Seaport".

Giving an overview of the project, the Commissioner for Works, Prof. Eno Ibanga who described Governor Emmanuel as a promise keeper, explained that the road which is a dual carriage, has each lane 8 metres wide and builit to specification by the German Contactor, Julius Berger Construction Plc.

"Each lane of the road is 8metres wide. Built to specification by Julius Berger. Akwa Ibom State does not take chances when it comes to quality".

In their messages of goodwill, the Senator representing Ikot-Ekpene Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Dr. Chris Ekpenyong, House of Representatives Member for Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Nsikak Ekong and the Chairman of Ikot Ekpene Local Govenrment Council, Hon. Unyime Etim, showered encomiums on Governor Emmanuel for changing the narrative in infrastructural development in the State.

Recalling how the opposition used the road as a political campaign tool against the PDP, stakeholders of the area particularly praised the Governor for not abandoning a road project he inherited at 20 percent construction stage from his predecessor, but ensured that the Project was built to specification.

They described the road as an economic gateway to the state, pointing out that the road would be of immense help to the people of the area, and reassured him of their unflinching support towards his completion and succession agena.

Among personalities that graced the commissioning ceremony include, the Governor's wife, Dr. Martha Udom Emmanuel, Deputy Governor, Mr. Moses Ekpo, Senator representing Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District, Engr. Dr, Christopher Ekpenyong, Senator Aloysius Etok, House of Representatives Member for Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Nsikak Ekong, Members of the State Executive Council, Speaker, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Bassey, and several other serving and former office holders.


© Govt House, Uyo
05/10/21

All roads lead to the Emerald Events Centre, in the bustling Uyo city of Akwa Ibom as the highly anticipated Catch Up Concert is set to shake the city on the 19th November, with exciting perfomances from the city’s finest artistes.

The show, which expresses the best of art and music from the city’s indigenous artistes will be headlined by Akwa-Ibom superstar, FreeLance, alongside other acts.

The trio of MMAC Entertainment, Akwa-Ibom Recording Artiste Association (AIRAA) and Uwi Nation have partnered to stretch the excitement of the concert beyond its usual limits, as they continue “to celebrate, foster the growth of music and art in the state and invariably connect meaningfully with the Youths”

“We are thrilled to bring this event back to the Land of Promise. Our home grown talents have proven to have what it takes to excel in the Art and music spheres. What they need are opportunities to showcase their talents. The Catch up concert draws inspiration from one of our top rated artiste, FreeLance’s latest single of same name, which is making waves globally. Bringing FreeLance, top rated artistes alongside our indigenous ones, will indeed be a spectacular show to behold,” MMAC Entertainment CEO, Mike Essiet, commented.

The AIRAA has impacted the careers of its numerous members having helped them to improve their skills, as well as understand the music business. “We are pleased to be part of this iconic music concert. Our locally based talented artistes will also leverage on this platform to showcase what they have. We are all for building artistes brands, talents, skills, collaborations and career exposure. As the Creative Director for Catch Up concert, it behoves me to ensure that nothing but the best is witnessed on the day of the event,” its founder and President, Precious Ewa, professionally known as Supersonic Blaze stated.

#CatchUpConcertUyo

Mfonobong Ukpong, Uyo.


With evolutions in the communication trend, it is important for Public Relations managers to be smart, creative and equipped with social media skills to fit in to the dynamics of contemporary society.

This was the submission of the Special Assistant to Governor Udom Emmanuel on Research and Documentation, Comrade Essien Ndueso, Thursday at a public lecture on the theme: " Evolution of Public Relations Profession:The Shifting Skills Required in Today's Public Relations Practice, organized by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations Students Association, NIPERSA, University of Uyo chapter, held at the Town campus of the university.

Comrade Ndueso, a former Director of Information and Public Relations in the Student Union of the University, was a guest discussant at the event, which keynote lecture was presented by the Director General of AKBC, Pastor (Dr.) Anietie Ukpe.

Others at the lecture included, Head of Communication Arts Department in the University of Uyo, Prof. Peter Esuh, Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Mr. Aniekeme Finbar, Akwa State Vice-Chairman of Nigeria Institute of Public Relations, Mrs. Mercy David, Chairman, Civil Liberties Organization, CLO, Akwa Ibom State, Otuekong Franklyn Isong, lecturers in the Communication Arts department, Newspaper publishers, Communication Arts and Public Relations Students.

Describing Public Relations as a 'very serious management function in any organization', the Govenor's aide harped on the need for those aspiring to become PR practitioners and those already in the field to ensure they are abreast with latest trends in the society in order to excel in their assignments.

"Public Relations is a very serious management function in any organization'. PR is beyond 'landing', 'brown envelopes' and writing of press releases.

"Any body practising Public Relations must be in-tune with the latest trends and must have social media skills to be able to do better".

"Skills in photography, typing, editing photography and video, and having an influencial presence in social media make it possible to key into the dynamics of the global village, where with a press of a button, the ears of the whole world is within one's reach.

"You must be very creative and must be dynamic in your mode of communication. You need to have easy access with the people you relate with. You must be very creative and must be dynamic in your mode of communication".

Mr. Essien Ndueso, an alumnus of the department and former President of the Association in 2004/2005, launched a scholarship scheme for indigent students of the department with a cash donation of 50,000, and pledged to always be associated to programmes in the department.


Delivering a keynote address, the guest lecturer, Pastor(Dr.) Anietie Ukpe, who is the Director General, Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation, AKBC urged Public Relations practioners to see publicity as a means and not the end, and must at all times ensure that every detail of their PR job is geared towards customer's satisfaction.

He advised that they must ensure that their products or services have no defect as such could register a negative impression in the public space.

Ukpe, a former Chief Press Secretary to the former Governor of Akwa Ibom State stressed the need for PR experts to churn out truthful and inspiring stories that would capture their audience.

In his words; "Public Relations – not Publicity: Before it was all about publicity. But today, publicity should not be the end of your efforts. Everything should be wrapped around customer satisfaction.

"Publicity should be the means, not the end. Why? Because dissatisfaction spreads fast and bad news travels faster than good news. So, ensure that your product or service has no defects and works perfectly. After that word of mouth testimonies and online posts may drive it to great heights

Pastor Ukpe hinted that, "Every public relations practitioner, worthy of the name, should always remember that crisis and opportunity are different sides of the same coin. That every cloud has a silver lining," adding that "public relations is story telling and in order to tell the right stories, you need to source, analyze and scrutinize data."