Akwa Ibom State Government has expressed its readiness to partner an American-based Company, Hucha Technologies Incorporated to Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) businesses in areas of Fabrication Technology, Mining and Wealth creation in the State. 


The State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel made this known, when he played host to a delegation of Hucha Technologies Company during a courtesy visit on him at Government House, Uyo.


The Governor who stated that the One-stop Shop Committee for investment of the State Government would facilitate the ease of doing business in the State, assured Hucha Technologies of a conducive business environment, maintaining that his administration is poised to creating wealth and engaging youths through meaningful entrepreneurial ventures as a way of curtailing restiveness and other vices in the State.


Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, Governor Emmanuel hinted that with the approval from the Federal Government to operate the Ibom Deep Seaport project, Hucha Technologies will be accommodated at the Ibom Industrial City to partner in the development of the State through the BOT arrangement.


“…You can go and tell Hucha Technologies that Akwa Ibom State is ready to partner with you in the development of the State, when your leader arrives the country, the Governor of the State will host him alongside full-fledge technical presentation incorporating all the questions that have been raised, starting from an executive summary of the totality of what you do, the antecedents, footprints and projects of this nature that falls into the three areas of Financial Technology, Fabrication Technology, Mining and Mineral Exploration.


“Be rest assured here we don’t tolerate corruption, we want you to ensure that you will develop the state and develop the people, because once the State is developed the insecurity which has to do with unhappiness of people will be checked and the people will have what to give back to the society rather than hit back at the society. So we are ready, the Sea port project which is about to be developed is part of the industrial City, you are already in good hands and safe location,so be rest- assured that this location will meet your requirements”, he assured.


Earlier in his remarks, the leader of the delegation and President, Hucha Technologies, Guy Djoken, thanked Akwa Ibom State Government for accepting to partner the company to bring innovations in the areas of Financial Technology, Fabrication Technology and Mining into the State.


Djoken said Hucha Technologies seeks to partner the state by harnessing  the rich potentials which Governor Emmanuel has already began to tap through his industrialization projects.


He pointed out that the fabrication laboratory investment worth $10 Million will be based on a Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) arrangement to generate employment to Akwa Ibom people, especially the fabrication laboratory which will produce robotics, renewable energy such as lithium battery and others.


‘’…I am very confident that there is transparency here, there is no corruption and my mission here is to bring financial technology, build a fabrication laboratory and assist the Mining sector to be more productive and also create wealth for the people. 


"The  cost of a fabrication lab is  $10 Million and we are coming here with full financing because we are looking for partners in Africa that really care about the development of Africa. When we bring the fabrication lab, we are going to transform our products locally we are going to provide people with jobs and we believe Akwa Ibom State government is prepared for the partnership”, Djoken stated.
In attendance at the Courtesy visit were members of One-Stop Shop for Investment.

MEDIA UNIT
OFFICE OF THE SSG
28/10/2021.

Member representing Etinan/ Nsit Ibom/ Nsit Ubium Federal Constituency, Mr Onofiok Luke has warned about the increasing indulgence of the populace in hard drugs consumption in Nigeria.

Delivering his remarks as Chairman at the 5th National Symposium on Drugs and Drug Policy in Nigeria to mark the 30th Anniversary of Centre for Research and Information on Substance Abuse (CRISA) held in Abuja, Luke said; 'The situation should raise concerns among policy makers and among parents, most of whose children are vulnerable, and could slip into the unhealthy drug consumption vortex'.

Citing statistics to back up his position, the lawmaker said that the situation is worrisome and needs to be urgently addressed. According to him 'the statistics are scary, to say the least, considering the impact of drug use on the economy, productivity, the gross domestic product (GDP), crime, law enforcement and governance'.

Luke attributed several crimes committed in the country to hard drugs. 'Of course there is a broad consensus that many crimes committed in our society involve individuals who are under the influences of either alcohol or drugs. In other words, there is a nexus between both drugs/alcohol and crime'.

'The above situation should impel government and policy makers to make available funding to establish treatment facilities and to support and expand existing ones like the Drop-in-centres, which were earlier initiated and supported by the European Union/United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (EU/UNODC)' , Luke added.

He commended the Executive Director of CRISA, Prof. Isidore Obot for the great work his organisation has been doing in this regard. 'We wish to use this platform to commend the Centre for Research and Information on Substance Abuse (CRISA), for its commitments of time, material resources, intellectual resources and energies to finding solutions to these social problems over the past thirty years'.

'We are hopeful that the outcomes of recent research around this subject will point us to the way forward', Luke said.

He also thanked the organisers for availing them this platform to learn from very distinguished scholars, policy makers and experts on very delicate issues that are fast gaining attention within the populace.

The event had in attendance the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Gen. Muhammad Buba Marwa(Rtd) Former Military governor of Lagos State and other dignitaries.


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

27/10/2021

The Akwa Ibom State Caretaker Committee Chairman of APC, Dr. Ita Udosen says former Governor of the State, and Minister of Nigeria-Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio is not the leader of the party in the state.

He also said that the recalcitrance of APC leaders led to the party's failure to reach a consensus arrangement.

Udosen said it was very wrong for Akpabio to be used as the indices to measure the legitimacy of APC activities in Akwa Ibom.

Featuring on a live radio programme on Planet FM, Dr. Udosen who was speaking on the outcome of the just concluded state Congress of the party, said Akpabio came into the party and became a Minister through the platform of the APC.

"His Excellency, Godswill Obot Akpabio should not be the yardstick for APC in Akwa Ibom. No body should use the Minister to establish the validity of APC in Akwa Ibom. He became a Minister at the instance of the of the APC. We should not use him as a yardstick".

Dr. Ita Udosen who listed former Minister of Petroleum, Atuekong Don Etiebet as Chairman of APC Caucus in the State, described the just concluded State congress of party as peaceful.

He however disclosed that the party had almost resorted to the consensus approach, but regretted that some leaders of the party in the state became recalcitrant when he tried to talk to them to see reason for a consensus agreement.



"We didn't take the consensus approach. Our leaders were very recalcitrant when we tried to talk to them about taking that approach of a consensus".


The Caretaker Party Chairman dismissed claims that he was doing the biddings of the National Secretary of the Party, Senator John James Udoedehe, saying he has been running affairs of the party without any interference from any quarters.

Defending the National Scribe of the party, Dr. Udosen explained that rather than manipulating the process as he's being accused, the Senator remained neutral through out ward and State congress exercise, noting; "Senator Udoedehe had the right if he had wanted to sit back at Abuja and write the list, but he remained very neural up to ward and State congress. He never interfered in what the state Chairman is doing".

On why the National Secretary of the party, Senator Udoedehe could not attend the congress in the state, Udosen said he could not make it, since he had to take care of NationaI issues concerning the party in Abuja.

Global Pilot Newspaper learnt the outcome of the congress in the state clearly shows that the APC headquarters may have ignored Akpabio, Ita Enang's faction of the party which allegedly held parallel Congress.

The party is insisting that there was no parallel Congress in Akwa Ibom as being reported in some quarters. The party has recognized Austin Ekanem as the duly elected state Chairman of APC in Akwa Ibom.

The party maintains that there was no parallel Congress of the party in Akwa Ibom State in particular and Nigeria generally.

The clarification was made by the National Organising Secretary of the party, Prof Ussiju Medana, while fielding questions on Channels Television early morning show, Politics Today in Abuja.

The party described those claiming that there were parallel congress in the state as rumour mongers raising false alarm with intent of causing confusion in the party, urging members of the public to ignore them.

Also, the National Secretary of the party, Senator John James Udoedehe has dismissed claims of Parallel Congresses across the country vowing that the party will not hesitate to deal with imposters accordingly.

Recall that the recently concluded Congresses of the opposition Party in the state produced 3 factions laying claim to the state exco of the party.

It was learnt that the three factional exco include those loyal to former Governor of the state and Minister of Nigeria-Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, the one loyal to the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Niger-Delta Affairs, Senator Ita Enang and Udoedehe faction.

Akpabio's faction has Mr. Stephen Ntukekpo as State Chairman , with Iniobong John as Publicity Secretary, while Ita Enang's faction produced, Douglas Pepple as State Chairman and Uduakabasi Ikpatt as Publicity Secretary.

The faction believed to be loyal to the National Caretaker Secretary of the party, Senator Udoedehe, has Austin Ekanem as State Chairman, while Solomon Johnny is the Publicity Secretary.

Reacting to the outcome of the congress, the State Caretaker Committee Chairman of the party, Dr. Ita Udosen dismissed parallel congresses held by some elements as “mere naming ceremonies”, and called on security agencies to deal with any party member circulating fake names.

"The party therefore warns, that members who attempt to circulate forged list of party organs and those found impersonating to confuse the public will find it hot in the hands of security agents this time. The party directs all members to accord the newly elected State officers the due respect."

"I wish to bring to the notice of all APC members and the general public the official results of state congress Elections conducted through open secret balloting on Saturday, October 16, 2021, at Sheergrace Arena, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State as announced by the 7-man State Congress Committee from Abuja who conducted the exercise".

Dr. Udosen added that "the attendance cuts across all the major shades of opinion in our party and there was no one left in doubt as regard the authenticity of the congress which was very peaceful".

He further expressed gratitude and commended the conduct of party members during the exercise, urging contestants with complaints to approach the appeal panel that will be delegated by the national secretariat. "The party is deeply grateful to the 7-man State Congress Committee led by Yusuf Sheriff Banki, the INEC, the Security Agencies, Media, APC stakeholders and the delegates for such huge successes. The party implores any member who has anything against the conduct of the Party Congresse to get ready to present it before the 5-man State Congress Appeal Committee that will be set up very soon".

However, the Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio, attended factional congresses of APC in the State, held at different venues, where he preached peace and unity among party members. He had stressed the need for the party to the united in order to wrestle power from the PDP.

Notable APC stalwarts at the congress included Atuekong Don Etiebet, Minister of Nier Delta Affairs, HE Godswill Akpabio, HE Group Captain Sam Ewang, Mr. Umana Okon Umana, Senator Ita Enang, Sir Bassey Dan-Abia, Archbishop Samuel Akpan, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ekon, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Akpan, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ukoette, Otuekong Sunny Jackson Udoh, DIG Udom Ekpoudom, Chief Godwin Afangideh, Chief Engr. Benedict Ukpong, Dr. Bassey Antai, Dr. Edet Atti, Rt. Hon Nse Ntuen, Barr. Ibanga Akpabio, Hon. Engr. Akanimo Edet, Dr. Amadu Attai, Hon. Loveday Ekuyok, Rt. Hon. Bassey Etim, Prof. Etok Ekanem, Prince Mandu Ekpo, Engr Mfon Akpan Eyen, Dr. Ndem Andem, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ekpenyong, Barr. Edet Eyo Bassey, Hon Inibehe Otoho, Prof Ibia Ibia, Justice Andrew Okon, Justice Ekerette Ebieye among other important party dignitaries that participated in the congress.

For there to be a Parallel Congress known to the party,the National Organising Secretary, Professor Ussiju Medaner explained that the Seven-Man Committee sent by the National office of the party to conduct congress in a state must be divided holding congresses at different locations. He said that is the only time one can say there was a parallel Congress in the state which has such scenario. He said that "...if all the seven man committee were in the same venue conducting party congress, any other function outside the venue has nothing to do with APC congress".

Recall that Alhaji Banki Sheriff was dispatched by the party headquarters in Abuja to conduct State congress in Akwa Ibom State to elect new State officers of the party. He led other members of the seven man Congress Committee recieved by Caretaker Chairman Dr Ita Udosen and held a pre congress briefing at the party secretariat on Friday detailing how the congress will be conducted assuring stakeholders the exercise will be free and fair. The committee held the Congress at Sheer Grace Event Centre, Nsikak Eduok Avenue, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State Capital the following day, Saturday, 16th October 2021.

The Governor of Akwa Ibom state Mr. Udom Emmanuel has proposed a total budgetary estimate of N582.115 billion for the 2022 fiscal year.

Presenting the estimates before the House of Assembly in Uyo, Governor Emmanuel explained that the 2022 Budget is prepared in accordance with International Public Accounting standard (IPSAS) Accrual template, and is intended to roll out a manageable budget size that will help in closing the gap between the budgeted figures and the actual figures.

He noted that the N582.115 billion 2022 budget is made up of a
Recurrent Expenditure of N260.151 billion, Capital Expenditure of ₦321.964 billion and Recurrent Expenditure of ₦260.151 billion.

The 2022 Budget which is predicated on an oil benchmark of $57 per barrel at a production rate of 1.88 million barrels per day with an estimated exchange rate of ₦410.15/US$.

This, the governor said was in line with the National Budget benchmark projections.

He stated further that the focal point would be on the implementation of his 8-Point Completion Agenda of Industrialization, Education, Aviation Development, Rural and Riverine Area Development, Agriculture, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, Infrastructural Expansion and Consolidation, Security and Human Capacity Development.

“The 2022 Budget is christened the “Budget of Re-defining Standards”. Our intention here is to take stock of our achievements in the past six and half years and consolidate the gains of our achievements thus far, for sustainable expansion and growth,” he stated.

Gov. Emmanuel who listed achievements of his administration such as the
establishment of more than 20 viable industries in the State, Completion and successful commissioning of the 21-Storey Dakkada Tower, inauguration of Ikot Oku Ikono one-kilometer flyover, completion and successful commissioning of the Uyo-Ikot Ekpene Road, among others.


He re-emphasized that the Policy Objectives of the 2022 Budget includes; stimulation of the state's economy with a view to creating more opportunities for gainful employment of our citizens through Industrialization and Agriculture, Economic growth and job-generating.

The Governor also said that the budget shall focus on infrastructural investments in roads, bridges, Renewable Energy and communication technologies, Promotion of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) as well as enhancement of local capacities in manufacturing and use of "made in Akwa Ibom” goods and services to create jobs and achieve self-sufficiency in critical sectors of the State's economy, among others.

“Other specific objectives include; to employ ICT, Science and Technology as a tool for employment generation and wealth creation, to increase the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the State by expanding and diversifying the State’s resource base, to aggressively pursue the development of other internal revenue generating sources in the State, in Maritime, Coastal and Inland Water Ways, harnessing revenue on landed properties and others, to commence the construction of Ibom Deep Seaport and development of the Ibom Industrial City to complement Government efforts in the creation of enduring structures for employment generation, among others.

The State Chief Executive explained that the 2022 Budget which is prepared in accordance with International Public Accounting standard (IPSAS) Accrual template seeks to roll out a manageable budget size that will help in closing the gap between the budgeted figures and the actual figures.


The Governor explained that the Budget was christened the “Budget of Re-defining Standards” as it aims at taking stock of achievements in the past six and half years and consolidate the gains of achievements, for sustainable expansion and growth of the state.

Governor Emmanuel during his speech said that in the course of preparing the year 2022 budget efficient costing tools such as Cost Benefit analysis, Cost effectiveness analysis and elasticity methods including moving averages were deployed.
"Government has proposed a total budgetary outlay of N582.115 billion for the 2022 Financial Year as against the approved revised provision of N598.975 of 2021 representing a decrease from the 2021 revised budget.

"The total projected Recurrent Revenue for 2022 estimated at ₦273.854 billion as against the approved revised provision of ₦260.003 billion representing 5% increase in revenue projection for the year 2022.
"The total Capital Receipts and Expenditure for the year 2022 is estimated at N321.964 billion as against the approved revised provision of N344.873 billion for 2021. A total projected Capital Receipts shows that N13.703 billion will be transferred from the Consolidated Revenue Fund, while the balance of N308.261 billion.
"A sectoral allocation of the total budget outlay of N582.115 billion for the year 2022 shows that, administration gets N132.565Bn( 22.8%), Economic sector is to get N347.349BN (59.7%), Law and Justice- N10.378BN,(1.8%), Regional Sector to N1.991BN (0.3%), Social Sector for N89.832BN(15.4%).

The Governor noted that the main policy thrust of the budget is to create more job opportunities with a focus on the 8-Point Completion Agenda and these include, industrialization, Education, Aviation Development, Rural and Riverine Area Development, Agriculture, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, Infrastructure Expansion and Consolidation, Security and Human Capacity Development.

He lauded the lawmakers, Rt Hon. Aniekan Bassey for his commitment and tireless efforts in approving the 2022-2024 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) the Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP) and the passage of the 2021 Revised (Supplementary) Appropriation Bill in response to the exigencies arising from commitment to further change the narratives and trajectories of our growth and development.
"You have proven yourselves as dependable partners in the Boardroom of the Akwa Ibom Enterprise.
"You have also worked collaboratively with the Executive Arm and infact, the Judiciary too, putting aside personal or group interest for the common good of our people.

"We have enjoyed robust working relationships, while respecting the Constitutional boundaries as enshrined in the Principle of Separation of Power. "

"We, in the Executive Arm can always count on you to rise gallantly in defense of the larger Akwa Ibom interest and do all that is proper and necessary to advance our growth and development. I want to thank you for this show of amity and concord." He added

The Governor noted that despite the gloomy economic outlook, his administration has been able to achieve a lot across sectors in line with the completion agenda.

By Kufre Etuk

Few months from now Nigerians will once again march to the polls to elect new set of leadership at the national and sub-national levels. At the State level, some people who are vast on the needs of the next generation have set templates on who should be their next Governor. In Akwa Ibom State, different strata of stakeholders are speaking passionately about what should be the the kind, made, comportment and focus of the next Governor of the State.

The political transition in 2023 in Akwa Ibom State will come with its peculiarities. Of the four civilian Governors who have led the State, Obong Akpan Isemin and Obong Victor Attah emerged Governors from home, while Chief Godswill Akpabio and Mr. Udom Emmanuel, were creation of the State Executive Council. No one is sure yet what will happen in 2023. However, Mr. Akan Okon, in the State Exco, Barr. Onofiok Luke, a federal parliamentarian, Engr. Mike Enyong, Senator Bassey Albert, are already consulting for the governorship in 2023.

Akwa Ibom people have tasted self-bred leadership in Obong Akpan Isemin and Obong Victor Attah. They have also tasted Exco-bred Governors in Chief Godswill Akpabio and Mr. Udom Emmanuel, isn't it time to taste a legislature-bred leadership?

The legislature is the fulcrum of democracy loosely defined as 'government of the people, for the people and by the people.' The legislators more than members of any other arm of government understand the needs, wants, anxieties, aspirations, strengths and weaknesses, and hopes; this is because they have a direct inter-personal communication with them and understand how they are affected and impacted by each policy, programme, and actions of government. 'When you speak to the persons directly involved [in a case] that is when you complete understanding of the problem', says Becky Anderson. The executive arm of government works with 'executive brief', usually the summary of the opinion of majority, organised interest groups. Such briefs leave out the salient opinions and positions of the minority. More often than not, minority opinion does not mean they are less important, often it is the position that makes the difference. By the nature of their existence, the legislator has the opportunity to talk with and listen to the purveyors of this salient opinion, frame their opinion and give it a context. This is important in peace-building. This is what makes the legislator the man of the people.

Two factors, capacity and institutionalism, enhance the ability of a legislator to perform well in leadership positions than others. Legislative arm of government is the training ground for capacity development. Diverse perspectives and positions on issues from both organised groups and unorganised individuals provide opportunity for legislators to learn and have first hand information from the masses.

Deliberation is an important feature of the legislative process. It necessitates a give-and-take and an exchange of information and ideas which build capacity. Frequent and unstructured exchanges in members' offices, leadership conferences, at lunch, and in the corridors of the legislative office building enhance knowledge and capacity of legislators to stand well in leadership positions. Institutionalism borders on building existing institutions to perform their various functions and this has been the hallmark of oversight function of the legislators.

Because the legislature is people-centric and most of the Bills they passed into law but denied assent by the Governor, are people-centre. For instance, the School of Health Technology which supposed to train primary healthcare personnel to man primary heath care institutions, is not known by any law of the state. As such, certifications from this institution can be challenged. In spite the fact the Bill establishing the school as a college was passed, assent was denied. The Youth Development Fund Bill aimed at creating jobs and evolving opportunities for youths in Akwa Ibom State was also passed into law by the State House of Assembly but denied assent.

Among those seeking to be Governor in 2023, Barr. Onofiok Luke, sits pretty with a broad knowledge and understanding of the needs of Akwa Ibom people. A former two term member representing Nsit Ubium State constituency, he was able to assess the needs of his people and as former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, he is fully abreast of the needs of the people including minority groups in the State.

As Speaker of the 6th Assembly which was code-named 'the people’s Assembly', Onofiok Luke devoted his time and resources to meeting people's needs. He was not a sedentary lawmaker. He sponsored Bills which had direct significant bearing on the needs of the majority and others which protected special groups like PWDs, students and youths. In his days in the House of Assembly, Luke was famous for holding frequent, no-holds-barred interactions with his people and spent quality time mentoring youths through the Onofiok Luke Mentorship Hub. His mentorship programme, The Onofiok Luke Legislative Internship Programme (TOLIP) which later metamorphosed into Akwa Ibom Legislative Internship Programme- AKILIP, trained youths on legislative processes, leadership and entrepreneurship.

Now as member representing Etinan/Nsit Ibom/Nsit Ubium in the House of Representatives, Luke is still committed to projecting interest of Akwa Ibom State at different fora, through advocacies, lobbying and representations. The recent is call for the revitalization of Aluminium Smelter Company in Ikot Abasi, and demand for more allocation for the construction of Calabar/Itu road by the Federal Government are testimonials of his efforts.

Onofiok Luke is a man of many faces. To the poor, he is their pathfinder; to the youth, he is their model; to the elderly, he is their delight-some son and to the women, Onofiok is their hope. As Governor, Onofiok Luke will flip open his diary, and bring to work his experiences.

Members of Nigerian Guild of Editors based in Akwa Ibom State today paid a courtesy visit to the member representing Etinan/Nsit Ibom/ Nsit Ubium Federal Constituency, Mr Onofiok Luke in his office in Abuja.

Speaking, the state co-ordinator, Mr. Ikpong Essien-Udom said the group decided to visit the member to interact with him given his effective representation of the people in the green chamber.
 
In his response, Mr Luke thanked the group for finding time to visit him and for also projecting his work and activities in the House. He also thanked the members for the support they have been giving to Governor Udom Emmanuel. ‘Thank you for what you are doing to support Governor Udom Emmanuel. Thank you for doing everything to sustain the legacies of the Governor', Luke said.

The lawmaker further informed the group of his purpose in the lower House. ‘I came to the House with key legislative areas – Healthcare, Education, Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Community Development - in mind, and I have been working to meet these objectives for the greater benefits of the people of my Constituency.’

According to Luke; ‘The pen profession has an important role to play in governance, so I charge you to set narrative and standards as basis to assess governance and leadership recruitment in the state'.
 
The members of the group thanked the Luke for making out time to see them and commended him for being outstanding in the House. 

The state co-ordinator of the group was joined in the visit by Samuel Etuk, Fortune Archibong, Samuel Akpan, Cornel Esen and Oto Ikpe.

Collaborative efforts beyond the boundaries of ethnicity, race, socio-cultural construct, religious affiliation, and doctrinal differences by faith leaders with moral authority is needed at this crucial
moment to advance sustainable peace, social cohesion and hope in Nigeria

This is because the current reality in Nigeria is heartrending, and one that urgently seeks leadership with the moral authority to navigate the country out of the muddy waters of self-destruction and disintegration.


The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel asserted this at the Inclusive Security Dialogue Retreat at the Airlie Conference Center, Warrenton, Virginia,United States of America earlier this week.

At the Inclusive Security Retreat held from October 18th -20th by the Global Peace Foundation in collaboration with Vision Africa; key leaders unbundled the barriers to peace and security in Nigeria.

Governor Emmanuel was one of the few key influencers selected for the strategy meeting.

Speaking on INCLUSIVE SECURITY DIALOGUE - UNBUNDLING THE BARRIERS, Governor Emmanuel posited that "to stem the tide of extremists in Nigeria, whether religious fundamentalists, dissident Islamists, or militia groups, will ultimately mean addressing the conditions that foster radicalism - poverty,
unemployment, social dislocation, cultural polarization, and a large demographic of disaffected young people."

He said since government has been variously accused of politics of parochial interest and tyrannical agenda, it becomes difficult for it to adequately act as an arbiter for conflict resolution and genuine peace.

Mr Emmanuel, was worried that "Nigeria is facing an existential challenge nurtured by the narrow identities of politics, ethnicity,
wrong interpretation of religion, and corruption, exacerbated by economic deprivations, violent
extremism, and the rise of ethnic militia groups.

"In the last few months, the country has
witnessed a surge in protests such as the ENDSARS with accompanying destruction of lives and
property.

"Kidnapping and abductions have dramatically increased, with more than seven hundred students taken since the beginning of this year.

"We have witnessed the death of police and
military officers in different parts of the country at the hands of a new group called the "Unknown Gunmen," who have also burnt various police facilities. The rampaging of herdsmen and bandits is practically uncontrollable as they kill, maim and chase people out of their
communities."

These, he said, have led the multiple regions of the country to resorted to establishing their own security
units, arguing that the central government is either unwilling or unable to protect its citizens.


Mr Emmanuel maintained that the retreat was going to afford stakeholders opportunity to meet and transparently address
"critical issues and seek lasting solutions to the grave challenges facing Nigeria, beginning from an affirmation of transcendent truths that define our common humanity."

Mr Emmanuel said the discussions would outline and examine the root causes of agitations and violences in the country, provide a safe environment for stakeholders and key actors to open dialogue and chart a
path forward and also bridge gaps across ethnic, religious, cultural, and ideological divides to better understand
the conflict dynamics and provide a platform for reconciliation.


The outcome of this, according to the Akwa Ibom State Governor, would be an increased understanding of the root causes of conflict and violence affecting the
country, de-escalation of conflict and violence across the nation, an increase in the positive relationship between the Nigerian government and various
agitating groups across the country,

He hoped the retreat could foster effective crafting and implementation of policies for the human flourishing of peoples across the identity fault lines of the country, as well as reposition the importance of universal principles and shared values as the glue for social cohesion and sustainable peace.


Among others in attendance at the conference where the GPF President, James Flynn, who gave the introductory remarks, the facilitator Bishop Sunday Onuoha, the President of Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Dr. Sampson Olasupo Adeniyi Ayokunle, Lanre Banjo who represented the coordinator of Oodua People's Congress,Ganiyu Adams, Ahmad Abubakar Gumi, Islamic cleric, as well as Dr. Mohammad Camara who moderated the retreat.

In the Governor's delegation to the retreat, was the Commissioner for Special Duties, Rt. Hon. Okpolupm Etteh.

Founded in 2009, Global Peace Foundation (GPF) is an international non-sectarian, non-partisan, nonprofit organization, which promotes an innovative, values-based approach to peace building.



Media Unit
Govt House,Uyo
Akwa Ibom State

By Edidiong Udobia

The unprecedented springing up of eateries, bars, lounges, night clubs, and parks in Akwa Ibom, has made the State a beehive of recreational activities. On daily basis, residents across age groups, social status and gender, cluster at their favourite hangouts to while away time.

When Kubiat Akpan, a 28-year old fresh graduate of Architecture from the University of Uyo, visited Eni Stores, a popular hangout in Uyo, on Sunday, 29 August, it was nothing unusual - not the day, the time or intention, was wrong. He was hale and hearty as confirmed by his relatives, friends and neighbours. Around 7pm on the said day, he was arrested by a team of police officers at the hangout, and by the evening of the next day, Monday, Kubiat was reported dead. His body was deposited in a mortuary as “unknown corpse’’ by the Police. [https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/483064-police-order-arrest-of-officer-over-torture-death-of-university-student.html]

An autopsy later confirmed that Kubiat died of torture. [https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/483404-nigerian-student-who-died-in-police-custody-was-tortured-autopsy-reveals.html] As I spent over six hours painfully watching the autopsy, I imagined the kind of torture that would have killed a sturdy young man within 24 hours in custody. Till today, the Police have not given a concrete reason why Kubiat was arrested in the first place. All the time I was on Kubiat's story, not a day passed that I didn't think of his aged sick parents - losing their only son in their frail old age. There is no solace to such grief, and no fortitude to bear the loss.

Emmanuel Dickson, a 26-year old artisan, was allegedly shot and killed point blank by a police officer in their family compound, Edoho Ukpong Street, Idua Road, Eket, on Sunday, 10 October. Emmanuel was returning home from an event where his parents were also in attendance, when he was accosted by some police officers just outside his home. Out of fear, he ran to his aunty's house for help, but one of the officers chased him to the house and allegedly shot him dead. I had a long discussion with Emmanuel's elder sister, Nelly Dickson and other residents of the area. The pain, anger and grief are real. [https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/490023-it-was-accidental-discharge-says-police-officer-who-allegedly-shot-dead-akwa-ibom-man.html] Like Kubiat, the Police are yet to tell the public what Emmanuel's offence was.

In the last three months, I have been on the trail of over six cases of police brutality within Akwa Ibom State. Unfortunately, Kubiat and Emmanuel were not lucky enough to survive their ordeals. Yesterday made it one year since the #EndSARS protest - an historic revolution where young people across the country protested against police brutality and demanded reforms within the Police Force. One year after, almost all the issues that led to the protest are still prevalent in the country. From the ceaseless abuse of human rights to the reckless killing of innocent citizens by the Police, nothing has changed for the better, not even in the slightest degree.

I spent the most part of yesterday reading stuff on social media. I saw people criticising the idea of a memorial protest, especially in Akwa Ibom. Basing their arguments on the casualties of the October 20 event, many of them insinuated that the a memorial protest was senseless. I've been curious. There is no general election in this State without scores of violence and deaths, how come people have never been told not to go out and vote again? Or could it be that the memorial protest was needless and senseless because it was about #EndSARS? So, for instance, ahead of 2023, if the APC should adopt a few strategies from their 2019 playbook like using the Police and other security agencies to lay siege on the State, will it be okay and sensible for the youths of Akwa Ibom to go out and protest like they did in 2019? Will it be an act of bravery if young people should go up against gun-wielding security officers and aggressively push through Police barricades just because the protest is about election and not #EndSARS?

The memorial protest was more than just a remembrance event for the Lekki Tollgate massacre. It was a further reminder to the country that the critical issues that led to the protest are still unaddressed. SARS may have been disbanded as a Unit, but the reckless officers and killer cops are still in the Force, so brutality is no longer a problem of a particular Unit, but now the de facto modus operandi of the Police. Within the last one year, Akwa Ibom has recorded many cases of Police brutality with some of them leaving the victims or their families permanently shattered, so it is sheer hypocrisy to criticize the #EndSARS memorial protest under the pretext of preaching safety. What is safety if a young man can be picked up in a public place by Police officers and tortured to death within 24 hours? Where is safety if a Police officer can chase an innocent citizen into his home and shoot him dead?

For whatever reason, people might feel convenient to sit and criticize or make mockery of other people's efforts just to take the wind out of their sails. The sad truth is, as the people's freedom shrinks, it squeezes everybody (regardless of current class and social status) into the same box. Somehow, somewhere, or sometime, everyone will have a feel of that inconvenience. Years ago, a certain man was the speaker of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly. Years after, he became a senator of the Federal Republic. Today, nobody knows his whereabout weeks after he was kidnapped by unknown gunmen, and nobody seems to genuinely care. As a journalist, I have followed too many blood trails and written enough death stories to fully understand the emotions behind the agitation against Police brutality.

From the horrific images of Kubiat's battered body in the mortuary and Emmanuel's lifeless body in the pool of his own blood at a corner of their family compound, to the heart-wrecking stories by their relatives, I have every genuine reason to support the memorial demonstration. Rather than try to guilty trip people with the sad events of last year, give them hope-inspiring reasons not to protest. Tell us how much has the government done within the last one year to end police brutality and human rights abuses. Tell us how many times the government has waded into the reported cases of police brutality with the intention of giving justice to the victims.

It is not just enough to be condemning IPOB's extreme approach and at the same time also criticize the peaceful approach by law-abiding citizens. Nigerians cannot to just stay at home and wait to take their turns to die in the hands of the Police. So, for me, the #EndSARS memorial protest was necessary yesterday in Akwa Ibom, like every other state in Nigeria. It will be necessary next year, and the year after, until the issue of police brutality and human rights become as important as power to the government, and as delicate as law and order to the society.

Sòrò sókè

..Says It Will Ease Spread of Peace Message to the Grassroots

The ongoing inauguration of ward coordinators of the Maintain Peace Movement, across the 31 Local Government Areas in Akwa Ibom State has been described as "a Politically reasonable move capable of spreading the message of peace to the people at the grassroots"

The immediate past Chairman of Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, Hon. Ekanem Brown made the assertion while speaking in Mkpat Enin at the MPM ward inauguration tour.

He described Peace as a major factor in the preparation of investment friendly communities, adding that the inauguration of ward coordinators of MPM is one of the smartest Political initiative of Governor Udom Emmanuel.

In his words, "as an investor and a business man, I know the value of peace so taking steps that are aimed at ensuring that the current statusquo of peace and absolute tranquility enjoyed by Akwa Ibom people is sustained beyond 2023 is most commendable.

"When I was informed about this inauguration I said I must come around to ensure that it goes well especially in my clan and my ward. Because as far as I am concerned, decentralizing this MPM to wards and clans is one of the smartest Political initiatives of the current administration. I am saying so because I know that it will enhance easy spread of the message of peace to the Grassroots even to the riverine areas".

He charged those inaugurated into the ward teams to lead by example and see their appointments as opportunity to be instruments of peace in their respective wards.

Hon. Brown, during his reign as a council chairman was highly celebrated for his empowerment programmes and his uncommon capacity to maintain peace and unity in the hitertho volatile Mkpat Enin LGA. He was popular for his 'Putting the People First' mantra.

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."