₦airaland Forum

A very prominent gubernatorial aspirant in the forthcoming general elections in Akwa Ibom State, Comrade Edikan David has been reported injured in a beach, Lekki, Lagos State.

The event which occurred on Sunday 27th November is said not to be very serious as he is responding to treatments after sustaining a cut from broken bottles at the beach.

According to an eyewitness who spoke to our correspondent, the said event happened while he was taking pictures with his friends, and exchanging pleasantries.

Comrade Edikan David is a 21st century certified Social Media Advertising expert and an underdog in the Akwa Ibom Hilltop Mansion job. He has been widely accepted, especially by young people.

Governor Udom Emmanuel has said that understanding the role of a wife as a helper in marriage accounts for a harmonious relationship and success of every couple.

A woman who neglects her primary role of being a helpmate to the husband, can never be appreciated and celebrated.

Governor Emmanuel made these known, Sunday evening, at the 50th birthday celebration of Mrs. Anne Enoidem, wife of Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem, National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party,PDP and National Coordinator of Maintain Peace Movement (MPM), at their Shelter Afrique residence in Uyo.

The governor who acknowledged God's faithfulness in the family of Barr. and Mrs. Enoidem, noted that for a couple to succeed the wife must understand her role as a supportive partner who will complement her husband in order to achieve fulfilment.

Describing Mrs. Anne Enoidem as a virtuous woman and a dependable partner, the governor pointed out that Mrs. Enoidem has been a stabilizer in her marriage especially the support she has given her husband through thick and thin.

"I want to appreciate all those who turned up for this event and also thank Mrs. Enoidem, I have listened so well, if a woman is not a good woman, the husband won’t call us to gather no matter what.

"For him to call us it means that she has been a good woman and I pray that she will continue to be a good woman.

"If you are a man and you must have someone who can pull the back of your shirt when you are in trouble, there must be somebody to pull the back of your shirt without attracting any legal consequence. At times as a man you can overreact, and that person must be there to pull you back.

"If you see a couple succeeding it means a woman also understands her role, a lot of women don’t know that you are first a helper before a wife, God first of all made for a man a helper before she became a wife as recorded in the Bible.

"What will make a good wife like this for us to celebrate is for that wife to know that it is not every aspect in a man’s life that he needs help, so don’t help him when he does not need help because that is where there is always a problem help him at the point he needs help”.

In his remarks, Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem, described his wife Anne Enoidem as a major inspiration, source of joy, adviser and a dependable woman he married in 1994.

Barr. Enoidem thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel and his wife Mrs. Martha Emmanuel for joining them in their celebration, pledging to continue to support and identify with the governor in his succession plan.

Celebrating her golden age, Mrs. Anne Enoidem, thanked God for sustaining her family through 23 years of marriage and her 50th birthday in good health.

“I want to thank God for my life, like I wrote earlier God parts the sea that I might walk in it, what I meant there is, upon what we have been through especially when issues of life seem like swallowing us up God, parts the sea and we pass through it.

"I have come to say God thank you for keeping me and my family, my husband, my lovely children”.

High point of the event was cutting of the 50th Birthday cake which was anchored, by Member Representing Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika, in the House of Representatives Mr. Aniekan Umanah, followed by presentation of gifts to the celebrator by friends of the celebrator under the aegis of Sisters for Life, while the celebrator and husband led dignitaries to the dance floor.

* Warns Political Jobbers Against Blackmail


A group of professionals, under the aegis of Uyo Senatorial District Media Practitioners Forum, has frown at smear campaigns by certain persons against the Governor of Akwa Ibom State on allegations of non payment of entitlements to retired workers in the state.

They have described the smear campaigners as purveyors of falsehood out to tarnish the Governor's efforts, despite the huge revenue channelled by the administration to settle former civil servants on the state.

The group, in a press statement endorsed by its Chairman Elder Ofonime Isong and made available to journalists in Uyo, the state capital, on Wednesday stated: “The Forum wishes to state categorically that in Akwa Ibom State, workers and pensioners get their monies every month, even before the allocation from the federation account gets to the state.

“This can be buttressed by available records which show that since assumption of office, Governor Udom Emmanuel has released and paid over N20 billion as gratuity to retirees. Though there are some persons who haven’t receive theirs yet, a greater percentage from records, have been duly paid.”

According to the Group: “What is more disturbing about this group is that they have elected to sacrifice the collective interest of the state on the altar of destructive politics and selfish interest. Thus, it is more endangering to the state when actions capable of causing disunity come from people who are the beneficiaries of the magnanimous gestures of government.”

They posited that it is impossible for a governor who places high premium on retirees since assumption of office in 2015 to suddenly become their enemy.

“This line of thoughts questions the authenticity of the protest, because ‘authentic retirees’ have adequate information on the state of pensions in the state.”

Checks by the forum indicates that the protest by imaginary retirees in the State was sponsored by agents of mischief with the sole aim of forestalling the recent signing of a deal for the purchase of new Airbuses for the state airline in Dubai.

What this implies is that it was a politically- motivated protest aimed at jeopardizing the efforts of the Governor at bringing development to the state.

According to the statement, "It was an obscurantist art, designed to confer on the Governor a bad reputation in order of dissuade Foreign Direct Investments from coming into Akwa Ibom".

The group maintained that in Akwa Ibom State, workers and pensioners get their monies every month, even before the allocation from the federation account gets to the state. "This can buttressed by available records which show that since assumption of office, Gov. Udom Emmanuel has released and paid over N20 billion as gratuity to retirees".

"It's impossible for a governor who places high premium on retirees since assumption of office in 2015 to suddenly become their enemy. This line of thought questions the authenticity of the protest, because “authentic retirees” have adequate information on the state of pensions in the state. The Forum therefore argues that the protest was not harbingered by retirees in the state, but by miscreant elements and impostors who are bitter about the increasing accolades poured on Governor Udom Emmanuel by more and more organisations and leaders in Nigeria. The doctored messages they displayed on placards testify to the above.

To this end, it must be noted that payment of gratuity is just a tiny fraction of the fiscal responsibilities of Government. It is certainly not her only responsibility. Despite this fact, we have seen the determined efforts the State Government has put-in to ameliorate the plight of retirees as far back as 25 years ago. Thus, we in Uyo Senatorial District Media Practitioners Forum hereby advise the public to to discountenance the activities of these conflict contractors whose mischief is mainly to paint the administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel in bad light through sponsored Protests.As a peace loving Governor with a listening ear to the senior citizens and people from all walks of life, there is no doubt that the Governor will do his best to ensure that those who sacrificed their productive years in the service of humanity are adequately remunerated".

"We caution the public to vigilant at this point to in order to be able to dictate fraudulent deceptions, especially, as the state gets into the era transition politics and electioneering. We also urge desperate politicians and fifth -columnists to desist from degenerative actions aimed at discrediting the administration of Governor Emmanuel who has garnered unprecedented goodwill from the people through the Completion Agenda".

... As Contractors Commend Governor Udom Emmanuel on Adequate Funding of Projects

Worried by the inability of contractors handling various road projects across the state to work at an expected pace commensurate with the level of funding at their disposal, the commissioner for works and fire service, Professor Eno Ibanga has urged road project contractors to device means of continuing their projects despite the protracted downpour that has obstructed construction work across the state for many months now.

This was the outcome of a meeting between the contractors and management staff of the ministry of works and fire service which took place at the Secretariat Annex, otherwise known as Dakkada Secretariat, Udo Udoma Avenue in Uyo.

In his address at the meeting with the contractors, Professor Eno Ibanga said that the meeting was convened due to his observations during his recent visit to project sites across the state. He remarked that some of the contractors have shown commitment, ingenuity, and strict adherence to professional ethos in handling the projects, while others were not doing well at all.

"Since the last release of funds that we released to over 90% of contractors across the state, I have visited a number of project sites, most of you have done well while some of you are not trying at all. I know that most of you still have a lot of money left, I doubt if there is any contractor in this state that has not been well mobilized as of today, if there is anyone, it means you have issues with your IPC.
“So we called this meeting to see if there are issues you have that the ministry can help you solve those issues, either concerning your project sites or funding or any matter at all that has an impact on your project, that is why we are here".

Speaking further, Professor Eno Ibanga who is the immediate past Vice-Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University told the contractors that the billions of naira released to them recently cannot be allowed to lay idle because of their complaints about perennial rains that have obstructed the progress of work across the state, he charged the contractors to device some means and good work plan that could enable them to continue with their work on-site despite the unfavorable weather.

In his words, "The State Government is in high spirit to deliver projects and give succor to the people of the state, that is why funds were massively released, personally, I want us to exit a lot of the project sites, so we must devise a means to ensure that work goes on despite the rains that have refused to stop. We cannot keep waiting for the rain. Some of you have more than one project site, if you have done some work at a particular site to a level that you cannot continue because of the rains, move to another site that you can do things that you can do despite rainfall as against waiting for when there will be dryness for weeks before you can work. I do not want a situation that the funds we released are not well utilized because of rains, arrange a project management system that will enhance you to function optimally despite the weather".

Earlier in his opening remarks at the meeting, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry of works and fire service, Engr. John Itiat welcomed the attendees to the meeting, he said that the meeting was convened due to the need to ensure that both the contractors and the Ministry are on the same page concerning various ongoing projects across the state. He encouraged attendees at the meeting to be open and ready to interact with the Commissioner and his team for the best interest of the people of the state.

Also speaking on some technical issues, the Director of Civil Engineering, Engr. Akaninyene Henry expressed his concern over the conduct of some contractors. He reminded the attendees of some standard technical practice and urged them to adhere strictly to procedures of work.

Engr. Henry warned the contractors against progressing to the different levels of works without applying for and receiving written approval from the ministry after inspection. "A situation that you progress from one stage of the work to another without writing to us to come and inspect and give approval is not acceptable. All of us know that the standard practice is that when you finish a particular stage of the work, you must invite the client to come and inspect then give approval before you proceed to another level of work. Please let us work according to world best practices.

“Another issue is that of testing. Always ensure that you carry out the various tests and provide us with the results so that we insert them into your file in the ministry. This is very important because if anything happens to that project tomorrow, the test can be referred to and the cause of the problem can be detected" he said.

Responding on behalf of the contractors, Senator Ibok Essien of Gracib Investment Limited thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel for his commitment to the funding of projects across the state, he pledged on behalf of the contractors that they will redouble their effort at the project site as instructed by the Commissioner for Works and Fire Service.

Speaking further Ibok Essien thanked the Commissioner for his leadership at the ministry of works, he said “the fact that this meeting lasted for as brief as only one hour is an indication that the government and the ministry is doing well, as the commissioner rightly noted, the first meeting we had lasted over three hours because there were so many issues that the contractors raised as a result of the challenges that the contractors were facing, but today, no one even complained not even about funding because all that had been done. Let us just pray for favourable weather.

“I want to send a very big thank you to the Governor on behalf of the contractors; he has done very well for the contractors in terms of facilitating funds to execute the project. In fact someone like me I had given up that I will not go back to that site. But with the special intervention of the new leadership in this ministry, I am very glad to go back to the site and I know, that is what is happening to many of these contractors, and I give special thanks to the government and by extension the leadership of this ministry including the permanent secretary and directors”.

Speaking further, Engr. Ibok Essien encouraged his colleagues to ensure quality in their project execution. “Someone like me I take pleasure to drive around the state because I have no other state to go, we must build roads in such a way that we do not go back to those roads for maintenance or reconstruction so soon. Like the director had said, testing is very important to the work we do. There are some jobs I did for this state in 1988 and 1989, each time I drive past those places I feel glad that my work is still very useful. That is my appeal to all of us that we do projects that years to come we shall be proud of those projects”.

Other contractors including Engr. Mohammed Allas of Dubai Construction Limited also applauded the Governor and commissioner for their commitments to the funding of projects, they vowed to deliver quality jobs immediately the weather becomes favourable to road construction.

Source: Aniedi Ukoenang

The rich culture of the people of Efik kingdom in Cross River State, Nigeria comes alive this November 27, as Calabar the state capital will witness an influx of people from all walk of life who would be converging on the state capital to witness the coronation of His Royal Highness, Etubom Adam Efa John Iyamba, the 17th spiritual maximus Calabaris, as the Etubom of Iyamba dynasty.

Notable personalities including a son of Nsit-Ubium in Akwa Ibom, and Senior Special Assistant to Governor Udom Emmanuel on Security, Capt. Iniobong Ekong, popularly called, 'Ikwafang', are to be honoured on the occasion.

Other distinguished Nigerians that will be conferred with chieftaincy titles on that day include, the Commissioner for Environment in Cross River State, Mr. Mfon Bassey, Otunba Festus Obiodun, Hon. Effiong Ekarika, Chairman of Odukpani local government area, Hon. Ambassador Justina Edem and her husband Mr. Joseph Edem and many others.

A statement signed on behalf of the Iyamba Royal House by the President of Iyamba Dynasty, Effiong Bobby Effiom Ekpenyong and made available to our reporter indicates that the church coronation for Etubom Iyamba will hold in the morning at Wesley Methodist Church, 39 Beecroft street, Calabar, to be followed by the conferment of chieftaincy titles by noon at the King iyamba Square (Anwa Nyoro) under the chairmanship of His Royal Highness, Etubom Anthony Ani.

Father of the day is the Chairman, Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council, His Royal Majesty Etinyin Dr. Etim Okon Edet who is also the Paramount Ruler of Bakassi local government area.

Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prof. Benedict Ayade is excepted to grace the event as Special guest of honour, while a former Minister of Culture and Tourism, High Chief Edem Duke is the guest of honour.

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has expressed happiness over the successful pact between Ibom Air and Airbus for the purchase of ten additional A220 Aircrafts.

He says the trust and goodwill generated from the State has earned it the confidence of the corporate world.

Governor Emmanuel made this known on Thursday, on his arrival at the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, after some international engagements outside the country.

The governor stated that the agreement signed few days ago in his presence between Ibom Air and Airbus to purchase Ten additional A220 Aircrafts describes the commitment Ibom Air has to rebrand and restore confidence in the aviation industry and has made the state, despite being a sub-national to earn the trust of the corporate world.

Speaking further, the Chief Executive of the State pointed out that the investment of the state in Aviation will benefit the state and the country, adding that the 10 new A220 Aircrafts will stimulate the economy through the value chain and opportunities of the industry.

"In the history of Aviation development there has never been a sub-national that could earn the confidence of the Aviation industry and then sit down and sign a brand new aircraft up to ten, it has never happened before.

"You talk about how Ibom Air stated with 2 Bombardier CRJ 900, we added addition 3 and we moved to A220.

‘’There is something we need to know in Africa and Nigeria, everywhere in the world people are signing transactions because of post-covid 19, and countries are trying to stimulate their economy.

"I keep telling people that money is when you possess all the cash, you create money in other to stimulate the economy.

"So what we have just done is not only for Akwa Ibom but for the entire Nigeria”, the governor noted.

"We are building the confidence of the World that one can rely on corporate in Nigeria, we are trying to rebrand and also take our people back to the world, take Akwa Ibom to the world space that they can trust us and that they can do business with us”.

Governor Emmanuel however, appreciated the support from President Muhammadu Buhari, the Minister of Aviation and the Civil Aviation Authority, which gives the state’s aviation a leeway, emphasizing that what Akwa Ibom through Ibom Air is winning today is for the entire country.

I mentioned in one of my earlier commentaries that the MPM is the most ‘clinical’ succession scheme and structure by any state Governor in Nigeria, since the inception of the Fourth Republic, in 1999. The reason for this line of thought is that, the organization is founded on an issue that impinges on the collective psyche of the people-peace. Of course, everybody wants peace, or don’t you?

Peace is a social asset, because, without it , no sustainable future and development can be attained. The Peace Movements of the 80s and early 90s believe that Peace is the most treasured and, the greatest asset of man. The capacity of Peace to harmonize a polity and system was reechoed by John Kennedy, an American statesman and leader: “Peace is a daily, a weekly, a monthly process, gradually changing opinions, slowly eroding old barriers, quietly building new structures.” What Kennedy connotes by this is that, the enthronement of peace in a society was capable of promoting tranquility, justice and equity; and these are prerequisites of a sustainable future.

It was in consideration of this, that Udom Emmanuel, the Akwa Ibom State Governor made ‘political and economic inclusion’, a cardinal agendum of his administration. There’s no gainsaying the obvious, that the last six years of his administration was saturated by all the manifestations of a peaceful society: security of lives and property, tolerance of opposition, management of diversities and improved political participation for all, among other indicators of a healthy society.

The evolution of the Maintain Peace Movement, Governor Emmanuel’s brainchild, in July 2021, was therefore, a Grand Strategy aimed at aligning opinions, deepening public conversations and participation in governance and above all, consummating a succession agenda. Like in War, the strategic level focuses on defining and supporting policies which relate directly to the outcome of a campaign.

The Movement which has Barr Emmnauel Enoidem, a political ‘warhorse’ and immediate past National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party as Director General, uses “that same God” as a slogan. The imperative of of an emotional tag line was reinforced by W. Chan Kim, a Reputation Management Consultant and author of “How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make Competition Irrelevant”,. According to him, “good way to test the effectiveness and strength of a strategy is to look at whether it contains a strong and authentic tagline”.

The authenticity of ‘That Same God’ slogan underscored by its emotional connection with the people, who are believed to be God’s people in God’s state (Akwa Abasi Ibom State). Brand experts are in unison that, the stronger the emotional connection of a tagline, the higher it’s changes of success”. Therefore, it suffices at this point to investigate the extent to which the message of peace propagated by Udom Emmanuel’s MPM has established connection with the emotions of the people of Akwa Ibom State?

The belief and political assertion that “politics is local” cannot be overemphasized. The people are the locus of political power, and Akwa Ibom state is about 70 percent rural. What this means is that the grassroots play an important role in the outcomes of every elections in the state and Nigeria in general. Taking this fact into cognizance, in juxtaposition of the obvious, that the MPM has a viable machinery and structure in all the 368 wards and the 31 Local Government Areas of the state (consisting of tested hands), it’s as sure as the dawn that the movement will play a pivotal role in determining who succeeds Governor Udom Emmanuel in May 29, 2023.

Secondly, is the issue of performance. A leader’s ability to transform the livelihood of his people through sound and visible policies garners him goodwill. Governor Udom Emmanuel’s industrialization policy has led to the emergence of an explosive business climate in the state , resulting in numerous jobs and better livelihood for the people of the state. Akwa Ibom people will not forget in a hurry that it was under Udom Emmanuel that their state became the first to own an airline in the entire West African subregion. Ibom Air and the numerous industries such as the syringe, metering and flour mill, among others, have created jobs, and would create enormous wealth for the people of the state in the medium and long term. These are the issues that would be at the front burner of discourse of 2023.

A few political pundits have advanced arguments legitimizing the aspiration of certain persons and federal constituencies for the gubernatorial election of 2023. This is not out of place, as such characterizes every democratic space. However, what should engross the minds of people is, how the economic structures that Governor Emmanuel will be leaving behind can be sustained. The answer to lies in supporting Governor Udom Emmanuel as he consummates his succession plan through the instrumentality of MPM, because he knows well where and how he got the wand to transform Akwa Ibom. He too, will give Akwa Ibom direction on who would sustain the transformation.

As the Maintain Peace Movement is unveiled with the inauguration of a National Executive Committee at the Nest of Champions on Friday 19th November, 2021, it behoves every Akwa Ibom person to reflect more than ever, on the peace that has brought the state to such a great height, and how it can be sustained, because sometimes it falls upon a generation to be great, as noted Nelson Mandela, the South African Statesman.

Uwemedimoh Umanah, PhD, is an Expert in Governance, Peace Science and Conflict Research

Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State is among 100 eminent Africans to be honoured at the 2021 African Regional Awards in Nairobi Kenya.

Governor Emmanuel is being selected among 100 inspiring individuals in Africa for the recognition billed to hold at the Radiddon Blu Hotel and Convention Center, Kigali in Rwanda later this month.

According to the organizers, the African Regional Awards seeks to recognize exceptional individuals who have considerably contributed, through business development and investment, to development in Africa.

They maintained that Governor Emmanuel and other selected African leaders have used their positions and power to impact positive change on the continent.

This, they maintained have earned them the “privilege to be honoured and celebrated during our awards ceremony on the final day of Tarj Forum and Tradefair.”

The event which features the official launching of the African Regional Journal, comes with the theme, Promoting Free Movement of Persons, Goods, and Services Across Africa.

It would be recalled that Governor Emmanuel two days ago facilitated a deal which will land an additional ten A220 Airbus to the fleet of Ibom Air to raise the total number of the aircrafts to 17.

Mr. Emmanuel’s aviation industry revolution, which comes with an ongoing new smart terminal building project, completion of the Maintenance, Repairs and Overhaul facility at the airport has complemented the 20 new industries that envelop the landscape of the state since the advent of the administration in 2015.

As part of activities marking the 20th Anniversary Celebration and Health Academic Summit of the National Association of Akwa Ibom Medical Students (NAAKIMS), the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture who is also the Dean, College of Commissioners and Special Advisers, Dr. Glory Edet has been conferred with an award of excellence tagged “Personality Award of the Year", by Akwa Ibom Student Doctors.

The award which according to the President of NAAKIMS, Comrade Utomobong is in recognition of her support to the association, was presented to her, Tuesday, at the Ministry of Agriculture, Idongesit Nkanga Secretariat, Uyo.

Receiving the award, Dr. Edet appreciated the organisers for finding her worthy to be a recipient of the prestigious award and noted that such recognition would spur her on to do more.

"I want to thank the President of this Association for his commitment to the welfare and progress of the Association and for the numerous achievements he has made since his assumption of office", she said.

The Agriculture boss charged the students to focus more on their studies so as to become useful to the society when they are done with their academics.

Earlier in his remarks, the Worldwide President of NAAKIMS, Comrade Utomobong Udo noted that the choice of Dr Glory Edet as an awardee, was in line with the ideology of the Association to honour those who support the growth and progress of the Association in the year under review.

"I want to appreciate Dr. Glory Edet for sponsoring the 2021 World Cancer Day, World Malaria Day, scholarships to our members and the sponsorship of medical students, donation of clinical stethoscope and other medical equipment to our members", he added.

Also Speaking, the Pioneer President and founder of the Association who is also a Consultant/General Surgeon and Surgical Oncology, UUTH, Dr. Isreal Ben, while describing Dr. Glory Edet as a pillar to Akwa Ibom medical students, also appreciated her for touching lives positively and encouraged her to do even more.

Also in attendance were the Special Assistant to the Governor on Project Monitoring, Comrade Ekomobong Iseh, selected Medical Students and other dignitaries who witnessed the presentation ceremony.

PRESS RELEASE

DUBAI AIRSHOW: IBOM AIR SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH AIRBUS FOR THE PURCHASE OF 10 A220 AIRCRAFT
[quote][/quote]Ibom Air, the indigenous Airline of the Akwa Ibom State Government of Nigeria, has placed an order for ten (10) A220 aircraft with Airbus, at the ongoing Dubai Air show, taking place at the purpose built DWC event arena in Dubai.

The agreement, which was signed today by the Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, Mr Mfon Udom and Chief Commercial Officer of Airbus, Mr Christian Scherer, was done in the presence of His Excellency, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State Mr Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Akwa Ibom State, Mr Uko Udom, SAN, and the Chairman of Ibom Air, Mr Imoabasi Jacob who led the Ibom Air team, which also included the airline’s Chief Operating Officer, Mr George Uriesi, the Group Manager Marketing and communication, Mrs Aniekan Essienette and the Group Manager Corporate Services, Mrs Imelda Aba.

Working in collaboration with the Airbus team, Ibom Air took an innovative approach to making the choice of the A220. The airline started by wet-leasing two (2) A220s for a year, to test the suitability of the aircraft for their needs. Within 6 months of this process, the airline was able to validate the A220 as the right choice for its domestic and regional aspirations. The order of the ten (10) Airbus A220 is in line with the airline’s aggressive growth plan, which will see it expanding its footprint into new domestic routes as well as regional routes covering West and Central Africa in the immediate future. The first phase of this expansion is set to cover cities like Malabo, Douala, Libreville, Kinshasa, Accra, Abidjan, Freetown, Banjul and Dakar. Ultimately the airline intends to operate throughout the continent of Africa.

The all-new A220 is purpose built for efficiency, targeting the 100-150 seat market. It burns 20% lower fuel per seat compared to previous generation aircraft and flies to a range of up to 3,400 nm (6,297 km), offering performance similar to larger, single-aisle aircraft. The A220s combination of a superior cabin product and low operating costs are a perfect fit for the airline’s network growth strategy and will help Ibom Air offer its customers an unrivaled value proposition.

His Excellency, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State in his remarks stated “earlier in the year, we gathered to welcome the first Airbus into our fleet, and I must say that we are proud to be the first airline to order the all-new Airbus A220 in Nigeria. The A220 will allow us to increase the number of passengers into Akwa Ibom, thus bringing more first-time visitors and business travelers to the State. These efforts reflect our commitment to enabling local commerce and industry, in line with the State’s economic growth strategy. With this latest acquisition, Ibom Air is better positioned to contribute to driving long term economic growth for Akwa Ibom State. Ibom Air’s giant leap as evidenced by this bold step, is a validation of the aviation development pillar of our completion agenda which is on course. I have said and will reiterate that, till the very last day, I will keep working for and I’m the interest of Akwa Ibom people.


Also speaking at the announcement, the CEO of Ibom Air threw more light on the choice of the A220: "It gives me great pleasure to be here at the announcement of Ibom Air’s order for 10 Airbus A220s. We are pleased with the steep growth we have achieved in the two (2) years and five (5) months since we commenced operations, a growth mainly driven by the massive embrace of our product and brand by the Nigerian domestic flying public. As we contemplated the next phase of our expansion strategy, we gave consideration and opted to procure two (2) A220s on a one-year wet lease, in order to try out the aircraft to ensure it was fit for the purposes of our business. I am pleased to say here that the approach has been a huge success for us. We found out that not only can we fill up the aircraft, but it has also become a favorite in the Nigerian domestic market. Our passengers love it. And so, here we are today, ordering 10 A220s, having tested and validated it as the one stop solution for our domestic and regional aspirations.”

On his part, the Chief Commercial Officer of Airbus, Mr Christian Scherer said “we are thrilled to add Ibom Air as a new Airbus customer. The A220 is ideally suited to Nigeria's aviation needs, providing operational flexibility, growing the business, and responding to demand for increased passenger services. Through this investment, Ibom Air is underscoring its ambition for regional and in due course, international connectivity, efficiency and versatility.”

With the purchase agreement signed, deliveries of the aircraft to Ibom Air will commence in the first quarter of 2023.


Annie Essienette
Group Manager Marketing and Communication


About Ibom Air
Ibom Air is a limited liability company wholly owned by the Akwa Ibom state Government, which aims to set the standard as an Airline of choice for passengers by focusing on schedule reliability, on-time performance, and excellent service with a vision to be A world-class, African regional airline and core values of Excellence, safety, Integrity, Passion and Innovation with a Mission to build a safe service-focused and profitable Airline. For more information visit: www.ibomair.com or Victor Attah International Airport Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Ahead of the opening ceremony of Northern Uruan Ward One Unity Cup, sponsor of the tournament and Councillor representing Northern Uruan Ward One, Hon. Ifiokobong Asuquo has presented sports kits to the participating teams.

Making the presentation earlier today at the Mbiaya Town Hall, Uruan, Hon. Asuquo said the football tournament is aimed at promoting peace, harmony and development in Northern Uruan Ward One and Uruan LGA, through the round leather game.

He disclosed that the competition which draws participants from the six villages making up Northern Uruan Ward One, would culminate with presentation of prizes to the winning team, consolation prizes and medals to outstanding players.

Hon. Asuquo expressed optimism that the tournament aside cementing peace, will help in the discovery and grooming of talented football stars in the area.

He further revealed that the competition which is apolitical would be sustained even after his tenure and called for discipline among participants teams in the competition.

Present at the event were Ward Chairman, Sir Godwin Asuquo and youth presidents from the six villages.

My name is Mr. Sam Edoho, I am from Afaha Ekid here in Eket Local Government Area, and I am the second son of Late Mrs. Flora Edoho. By the grace of God I have been many things in life at different places. But the last one that most of you can remember very well is that I served as Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Marketing and Brand Management between 2015 and 2019.

We are gathered here for an event that is very important to us as a family and especially to me as a person. The event we are gathered here for is what I would call one of the key essences of life.
We are here to officially inaugurate or launch the Flora Edoho Foundation.

Flora Edoho Foundation is a Non Governmental Organization that is inaugurated in honour and memory of our Late Mother, the late Mrs. Flora Friday Edoho. This organization is borne out of the need to sustain our mother’s philanthropic activities especially to widows and the less privileged in our midst, whose welfare she was passionate about when she was alive.

Our mother, Eka Edoho, as she was fondly called was a courageous woman who having endured different conditions in life after the demise of her husband in 1992, 29 years ago, she bounced back to a healthy prosperous life through hard work and resilience. She was socially a very humourous, kind, and supportive woman who derived joy in seeing others happy. She was known as a peaceful individual and peace maker in her church and in this afaha ekid community. Eka Edoho was very philanthropic in nature as a person. She shared the little she had with others especially widows and the less privileged in the community and church.

And as a mark of respect to her, today, we will launch this foundation by empowering twenty nine (29) widows, with food items, items of clothing and some cash support. Someone might be wondering, why 29 widows, why not 30 or 28? Well, you that is here can chose to make it even 50 or more. But the number 29 is special to us because our mother was a widow for 29years before her passage and that is the significance of the number 29 in today’s event.

My mother was so passionate about giving. I can recall with nostalgia, the very many occasions, when we, the children would give her items including food in bags, groceries and toiletries, with an estimation that the quantity of goods we have given her should last for three to five months only for us to be informed within a few days that most of the goods are exhausted. And when we ask mma, as we used to call her, how she was able to finish all the items in a few days, she would say she had shared most of the items to others including neighbours, widows and orphans in church and the neighbourhood who had nothing to eat. The interesting thing is that she did all these not seeking attention.

In a world that so many people are stacking food items, money, clothing until they get spoiled or deteriorate, my mother was so eager to share whatever she had in her hands with others.

As a person, It was my mother’s philanthropic spirit that inspired me to set up my Sam Edoho Foundation, a foundation that has been supporting young people, especially the gifted but less privileged in their education either as bursary or scholarship for the past fifteen years. The Foundation also supports smale scale businesses because our mother was also a practical small scale business entrepreneur and and today I am proud to announce that Sam Edoho Foundation is a principal partner to Flora Edoho Foundation.

So today, we are making a super move aimed at sustaining the kind legacies of the philanthropic activities of our mother. We feel that sustaining the charity works that our mother was passionate about is the best way to keep her name and what she stood for evergreen in the minds of those who valued her, beginning from us her children and that is where we have the slogan "... keeping the memory alive"

Permit me to exhort, that we are living in a country that life is becoming extremely difficult for people, eating three square meals has become a luxury in Nigeria of today, please, wherever you are and whenever the opportunity presents itself, do not fail to extend a helping hand to people that are less privileged than you are. Of course I am already aware of the mighty charity works that many personalities in this hall have been doing in recent times to Ekid people and others, please, keep up the good works and God will bless you in Jesus name amen.
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It was William James that said that the greatest use of life is to spend it on something that will outlast it. Our mother, the Late Mrs. Flora Edoho was a woman who lived a life of charity, extending her helping hand to others, and by this event, we want to ensure that her good works do not die with her but outlive her.

Once again, thank you for gracing this all important event.

We will now move to launch the FLORA EDOHO FOUNDATION and thereafter we shall proceed to the "Widow 29" Project which ushers in "The Time to Smile".

Thank You and God Bless You ALL in Jesus name amen.

In honour of his late Mother, Hon. Sam Edoho has on Tuesday, the 9th of November, 2021 floated an NGO, christened FLORA FOUNDATION, in honour of his Late Mother, Flora Edoho.

The inaugural launching of the Foundation saw about 60 widows being empowered with food items, wrappers and cash donations. Out the 60 widows, 26 of them were specially empowered. On the choice of 26 special beneficiaries, Hon. Sam Edoho revealed that her mother, before her demise was a widow for 26 years.

She passed on at the Age of 79 yrs.

According to the family release and made available to the public, the funeral activities would begin with Opening of the Mourning House on Sunday, 14th. November, Friends Night is scheduled for Friday, 19th. November, all at the family compound, No.12A, Atai Ndon Street, Afaha-Eket, Eket LGA.

The Burial/Funeral service would be on 20th. November, 2021, at Primary School Enen Ekpene field, Afaha-Eket, Eket, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

Finally, the Thanksgiving Service would hold on Sunday, 21st. November, 2021. At Solid Rock Kingdom Church, Eket. Time is 10am.

The release invites friends, Well-wishers and general public to the event.

The former Senior Special Assistant, SSA, to Akwa Ibom State Governor, Deacon Udom Emmanuel, on Marketing and Brand Management, aka "Mr Dakkada" Hon. Sam Edoho, is set to bury his mother, late Madam Flora Friday Edoho.

She passed on at the Age of 79 yrs.

According to the family release and made available to BUBBLENEWS, the burial event would begin with Opening of the Mourning House on Sunday, 14th. November, Friends Night is scheduled for Friday, 19th. November, all at the family compound, No.12A, Atai Ndon Street, Afaha-Eket, Eket LGA.

The Burial/Funeral service would be on 20th. November, 2021, at Primary School Enen Ekpene field, Afaha-Eket, Eket, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

Finally, the Thanksgiving Service would hold on Sunday, 21st. November, 2021. At Solid Rock Kingdom Church, Eket. Time is 10am.

The release invites friends, Well-wishers and general public to the event.

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has been commended by the immediate past President of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan on his development programmes in the state.

The former President, speaking at a special luncheon upon his reception, commended the pace of development in Akwa Ibom State under the leadership of Governor Udom Emmanuel.

Jonathan who was accompanied by wife, Patience, described the governor as a brilliant, competent gentleman that deserves to be encouraged for greater roles.

Dr. Jonathan, who is in the state for the annual conference of the Nigeria Environmental Society and the marriage ceremony of the first daughter of his long time friend and fellow pioneer student of the University of Port Harcourt, Professor Richard King, stressed that given his acquaintance with the progress of Akwa Ibom since 1994, he is in a good position to judge the development of the state.


"You're a gentleman, very competent person, a brilliant young man that needs to be encouraged and I believe he will continue to grow", he stated.

"From what we read and from what we see, you are doing very well. If you come into Akwa Ibom, you see a state that is growing. From 1994 when I was employed as the Assistant Director of Environmental Protection, OMPADEC, till I left office, there was almost no year I didn't come to Akwa Ibom, so I can monitor the development of Akwa Ibom and I'm quite pleased with the way the state is going".

He prayed for Governor Emmanuel to have a good successor who will follow his good steps and continue to lead the state towards greater heights.

Welcoming the guests, Governor Emmanuel, expressed great pleasure on the visit of the former President, describing him as the pride of the country.

The governor also seized the opportunity to thank the former President and wife for identifying with him and his family during his father's funeral, describing him as a great leader, a father and a brother.

Reflecting on the days of Goodluck Jonathan as President, Governor Emmanuel said Nigeria, in all indices, was better and expressed regrets that Nigerians have only come to realize what they have lost after his exit.

This, he referred to as 'medicine after death.'

"I made a speech the other day. You know I like talking data. I analyzed the growth, the GDP, the exchange rate, by the time I finished the analyses, it was so clear that we did much better and today everybody, every eyes have seen how the economy has been debased.

"That's why I say we feel proud of you anywhere we go to".

Ikono leaders and stakeholders have poured encomiums on Governor Udom Emmanuel for his concerted efforts in embarking on several turnkey projects in their communities.

The Ikono people believe that the Governor has performed creditably in their locality, a far departure from the state of abandonment that plagued the area previously.

The latest projects being new roads approved by the State Government on Wednesday.

In a statement he personally signed, Mr Nyakno Uwemedimo Okoibu, the Chairman of Ikono Local Government Area, sincerely appreciated "the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Governor Udom Emmanuel for the approval of the construction of 21.5KM Ikot Ayan Ediene - Ikot Ntia - Urua Naira - Ikot Nseyen - Nkwot - Nung Ukim road with 45M Span bridge in Ikono Local Government Area."


The chairman maintained that, "Your Excellency, it is clear that you bestrode the saddle with the blueprint of engendering a massive infrastructural renaissance and this, we the cradle of Ibibio Nation, are very grateful for."

"We are also very pleased with your revolutionary strides in all facets of the state's economy.

"Thank you for all you did in times past, what you are doing today and what you will do tomorrow," Mr Okoibu said.

On his part, the Immediate Past Chairman of Ikono, Mr. Itoro Columba wrote:
"His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel has graciously approved the construction of the "Ikot Ayan-Urua Naira- Ikot Nseyen- Nkwot-Nung Ukim Road" with 45m-span bridge.

"God bless you, Governor Udom Emmanuel.'

Mr Columba said that, 'Posterity will be eternally grateful to you for the golden era Ikono is enjoying from your government. Glory!".

*Governor Emmanuel: Exhibiting Evidences of a people-centred administration*


It is of no doubt that when the righteous are in power, the people rejoice.
When government is able to address the needs of its people, especially at the grassroots, the result is an overwhelming acceptance and support for it's programmes and policies.

Another indigene of Nkwot, Ikono, David Akpan took to the social media to express his thoughts, saying.

"Governor Nnyin, you have no idea what you've done for Nkwot people by giving approval for the construction of the 21.5KM Ikot Ayan Ediene - Ikot Ntia - Urua Naira - Ikot Nseyen - Nung Ukim Road with 45M span bridge in Ikono LGA".

"You'll understand better Sir when you finally come to commission that road upon completion.

"Nkwot has been maligned and neglected for ages forcing us to conclude that we're probably not part of Ikono".

"Traversing that stretch has been a nightmare for ages due to the deplorable state of that road. For thinking it wise to come to our rescue, bringing to an end years of tears and deceit by previous administrations, Nkwot people assure you of our unalloyed loyalty and support to the very end".

"We are grateful your Excellency, God bless you and grant you grace to finish the project".

"With more still coming, the State Government is determined to fulfill all of its promises to her people. We should therefore hold fast to the course of the completion agenda without loosing faith. God bless Governor Udom Emmanuel", he added.

Governor Emmanuel had earlier reconstructed and remodeled the General Hospital at Ikono and commissioned a College of Health Technology road that preludes the newly awarded road.

The Akwa Ibom State Government has demonstrated its readiness to take advantage of the ensuing dry season following the directive for an immediate recommencement of construction works in various parts of the state.

The approvals were given today at the State Executive Council meeting presided over by the Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel at Government House, Uyo.

According to the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Comrade Ini Ememobong, who briefed government house correspondents after the meeting, the approvals included construction of 2.1Km Ukpong street, 2.1Km Effiong Esang street with 800m discharge drain in Oron Local Government Area, as well as 21.5Km Ikot Ayan Ediene-Ikot Ntia-Urua Nnaira-Ikot Nseyen-Nkowot-Nung Ukim road with 45m span bridge in Ikono.

The state executive council also granted approval for the construction of 12.5Km Idiaba-Ibakang-Adiang-Ndukpo Ise road in Nsit Atai and Nsit Ubium Local Government Areas".

The Executive Council also declared the commencement of enforcement of state government order to curb the menace of illegal road side trading and loading of vehicles which, the Information Commissioner said, has continued to constitute nuisance to road users during rush hours.

The Commissioner said the Governor, in his leniency, had provided two weeks moratorium for necessary sensitization after the initial sounding of the order and has now directed immediate commencement of enforcement by the relevant government agencies.

He however stressed that the government has no duty issuing any other official quit notice or relocating the already illegal users of those spaces.

"The Council charged the Commissioner for Transport and the Commissioner for Environment and Solid Minerals to ensure free flow of traffic, by way of ensuring that illegal markets on major roads are removed and illegal bus stops are removed because during rush hour we've discovered that a lot of major roads in Uyo have become impassable and that situation is totally unacceptable".

"The issue of relocation has been that which a lot of people ask, but people must know that for relocation to occur, you must have been a legal tenant. A person who is an illegal tenant does not expect a quit notice", he added.

Also approved was the proposal presented by the Commissioner for Trade and Investment for the establishment of the Ibom Youth Innovation, Leadership and Entrepreneurship Training Centre.

"The Centre, when operational, will become a one-stop high-class training centre for entrepreneurship and leadership issues for the youths of Akwa I om State and anyone who may be interested", Comrade Ememobong said.

For the 2021 Christmas village, the Governor in Council is said to have approved a proposal presented by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Orman Esin, with a directive that this year's edition should surpass those of previous years in both standards and organization.

...harps on continued support for Governor Udom Emmanuel

It was an electrifying atmosphere, today November 9, at Ikpe Ikot Nkon as the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet rejoiced with the women, less-privileged and widows drawn from across the 11 wards of Ini LGA. The colourful event which was also attended by female appointees of Government, female Stakeholders, wives of political stakeholders of Ini extraction and others, featured the distribution of financial support, wrappers and other gift items to the attendees.

Addressing the women, Dr. Edet extolled the Governor for giving women their pride of place and for appointing Ini sons and daughters into key positions in this administration and noted that Ini has immensely benefitted from the industrialization and infrastructural renaissance of the Governor.

She further appreciated the wife of the Governor, Mrs. Martha Emmanuel for supporting families through her pet projects.

The aim of the meeting she noted was in fulfilment of her promise to the women to always interface with them regularly with the aim of feeling their pulse and providing solutions where possible.

The Agriculture boss encouraged the women to be good ambassadors of their gender irrespective of where they find themselves and charged them to take advantage of the ongoing PDP e-registration and revalidation exercise . She charged them to continue supporting the administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel till 2023 and beyond.

In a goodwill message, the Wife of the Dean of Supervisors, Mrs. Idorenyin Ukata, Obonganwan Flora Ogbonna, Mrs. Effiong Udofia, Mrs. Eno Ekpe and other Stakeholders, all appreciated the Honourable Commissioner for her love for the women and pledged their unalloyed support for the Governor.

Richard Peters


The My Entrepreneurial Goals Programme (MEGP) is an entrepreneurial development training programme focused at identifying, empowering and certifying Akwa Ibom start-up and existing entrepreneurs to define clear-cut goals for their businesses.

Established to provide new and existing businesses with the right networks for partnership and education on basic business tools which would guide them in making good decisions for their businesses, MEGP stands out as one entity whose vision is to become a reliable platform serving the needs of start-up and growing businesses in Akwa Ibom and the length of the Niger-Delta Region.

From its creation, MEGP has helped Akwa Ibom start-up and growing businesses define their goals and objectives, rather than stay afloat without prerequisite knowledge and mentorship. As such, it has identified the business needs of thousands of Akwa Ibom youths and offered lasting solutions to them.

Managed by the duo of the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Udom Emmanuel on Marketing & Brand Management, Mr Ime Uwah and Special Assistant to Governor on Entrepreneurial Development, Mrs. Meflyn Anwana, the MEGP has given businesses the potential to grow without barriers through the creation of innovative and scalable businesses by offering continuous learning, networking and providing access to funding which they require to succeed in the global market. At the programme, entrepreneurs have an access to MEGP training, mentorship opportunities, network and the ability to raise capital. They are able to browse through mentorship request and connect with founders to support them, as well as program partners and are also able to discover great companies, opportunities and follow up with the founders directly.


Since its creation, the MEGP has graduated hundreds of young entrepreneurs who’ve acquired various skills and certifications. After their training, the entrepreneurs are expected to effectively communicate the ideas behind their business brands to qualify for business grants ranging from N500,000 to N150,000.

Few months ago, a number of them were presented with work tools and items to aid their respective entrepreneurial activities in the Project-Based Assistance (PBA) scheme of the Akwa Ibom State Youths Entrepreneurial Development Programme.
The beneficiaries were exhilarant as they received the items which included: generating sets, washing machines, industrial sewing machines, clutch motor, bundles of quality Ankara materials, and a hand mixer (soap-making machine).

It is worthy to note the Governor’s commitment at ensuring self-reliance and independence hence, his funding of the programme. His passion to instill the values of industry and hardwork is again demonstrated as in the case of the Ibom 3,000 youths programme.
From the feedback gotten, the MEGP has fulfilled Governor Emmanuel’s dream of a productive workforce, while reducing dependency on white-collar jobs, and political begging. It thus affirms Governor Emmanuel’s dream that the average Akwa Ibom youth should be an employer of labour and a creative thinker with an economy-driven mindset.

Already, His Excellency’s investment in the youth is paying off with more youths moving from ignorance to knowledge and enlightenment. Moreso, Small Scale Enterprises are booming more than ever and the returns are encouraging.

In no time, the Start-up and growing businesses birthed by the MEGP will create businesses that will generate 100,000 new jobs, and contribute to the State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) revenue, while boosting economic activities in the State. All thanks to Governor Emmanuel whose investment in the future has began yielding in leaps and bounds.

The vision of Governor Udom Emmanuel to transform Akwa Ibom into the aviation hub of Nigeria is become realistic following the attainment of series of milestone by the state owned airline, Ibom Air.

Ibom Air has announced the one-millionth passenger mark on board its airline.

The Management of Ibom Air announced the airline’s attainment of one-millionth passenger mark on board flight number IAN4134 departing from Victor Attah International Airport Uyo, to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja, last week.

The passenger, Olowodu Daba Obene, was on the queue to boarding when the countdown to the 1,000,000th passenger began.

The company’s communications and marketing manager, Annie Essienette who confirmed this in a statement said the Director of Maintenance, Lookman Animashaun, conducted the count which saw Ms Olowodu emerging as the 1,000,000th passenger.

The Chief Operating Officer, George Uriesi, explaining the reason for the symbolic recognition of the one millionth passenger, said it was an essential element of the airline’s culture, to track every aspect of its performance and capture major milestones.

“By so doing, the airline is able to keep its passengers and stakeholders informed about the progress and achievements of the airline,” he said.

He said: “It was easy to track with precision, when the one millionth passenger milestone would be reached.”

According to him, it was also an opportunity to thank and appreciate customers for their loyalty and patronage in the two years and five months since commencing operations.

The company achieved the 500,000-passenger milestone on the 2nd of March 2021, seven months ago.

On her part, Ms Olowodu, the 1,000,000th passenger, who was unaware of what was going on, said the recognition took her by surprise and thanked the airline for the award of a free premium return ticket to any of its destinations.

The airline, which began operations two years ago is one of the flagship ventures of the Governor Udom Emmanuel led administration.

...charges populace to key into agriculture

The Ministry of Agriculture has flagged off sales of yam from her demonstration farms in Itak Ikot Udo, Ikot Ekpene LGA and other farms across the State.

Speaking, at the Idongesit Nkanga Secretariat on Friday, 5th November, 2021, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr Glory Edet noted that the state government has worked towards achieving its agricultural goals of ensuring that over 80% of food consumed is produced by the state.

"When the governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel assumed office in 2015, he told us that over 80% of what we consume will be produced in Akwa Ibom State and I'm sure before he leaves, 90% of food consumed will be produced in the state." She added.

Dr Edet maintained that the state now produces onions, vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, increase cocoa production, rice, coconut, cassava, among others which has boosted the state's economy as members from other states patronise foodstuffs in the state.

While thanking God for a good soil in the state, she reiterated that the yams harvested are for the populace.

"We planted the yams and today we are harvesting them to sell to the public at a reduced price.  This is to encourage the people to know that God has blessed Akwa Ibom soil and it is fertile for planting almost all types of crops".

The Agriculture Boss averred that the state government is geared towards making food available and accessible to all and called on the teeming population to actualise the agricultural visions of the state government by engaging in farming activities.

Commending the governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, She thanked him for his passion in agriculture which according to her has attracted landmark achievements in the agricultural sector and other sectors of his completion agenda.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Mary Bassey while harvesting the yams, appreciated God for good yield and appreciated Governor Udom Emmanuel for  his support in the agricultural sector.

In a goodwill message, the Chairman, All Farmers Association of Nigeria(AFAN), Prince Bassey Inwang commended the governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel for the agricultural milestone and thanked the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet for properly interpreting the agricultural vision of the state government.

…mourns deceased seaport technical committee member


Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has assured that all ongoing road construction projects in Oruk Anam Local Government Area will be completed before the end of 2022.

The governor gave the assurance at the funeral service of a deceased member of the state’s Technical Committee on Implementation of the Ibom Deep Seaport, Late Architect Idongesit Udoffa, at QIC Central Primary School, Ibesit Anwa Udo in Oruk Anam LGA.




Governor Emmanuel said the ongoing Ikot Ekaide – Ikot Okoro-Ikot Ibritam and other road projects in Oruk Anam, were among the longest road projects being executed by the state government.

This, he explained, was why four major road contractors have been engaged to get the job done, and gave assurance that all works on the road will be completed before the end of 2022.

“I want to reassure Oruk Anam people that we have four major contractors working here and before the end of next year, we’ll complete all the roads. Let us just pray for good weather and we’ll get that done”.


“This year records the highest rainfall we’ve had in the past six years and if you want to do a good job, you can’t do earthworks on a road when it is raining. You must allow the rains to subside”, he explained.




He cautioned against unverified and misinforming utterances on the current state of the roads under construction, as he sued for discretion among religious leaders in matters of governance.

“If you want to eat an omelette, you must break an egg. If you want the road to be fixed you must be prepared have the road spoiled at the initial earthworks when laterite is poured.

“So let’s face fact and let’s do what we’re supposed to do. Let people handling church leave governance for people in government.

“The public should be told the truth. We must put it straight, that the pulpit should not be used as a platform to mislead people with unverified information.”



Read more https://nowupdateonline.com.ng/2021/11/06/aibom-udom-sets-deadline-for-completion-of-all-road-projects-in-oruk-anam/

The solid foundations that bonded Nigeria during the colonial era, which eventually helped secure the country's independence, have become too shallow and shaky to hold and sustain its democracy without social tensions and fissures.

Hence there is need for everyone to rise to this reality and fortify those foundations with the bricks of faith, patriotism and love to confront the challenges threatening to shatter the unity of the country.

Governor Emmanuel stated these, as keynote speaker at a national lecture organized by the Arewa Media Interactive and Development Forum, at the Arewa Research House, Kaduna.


While commending the Arewa Media Forum for having sufficient faith in the Nigeria Project, he said organizing a lecture with a theme that centers on the Unity in the nation's Diversity, attests to the forum's belief in its abiding conviction and endless possibilities.

"In the mood of our current national despair, heightened by insecurity on a level only seen in war time, you have lit a candle of hope, unity, and love.


"My prayer is that this flame should be fanned into an enchanting blaze of love that would light and soften the dark crevices of our Nation and bring forth a new dawn of hope anchored on unity and brotherhood for our country and our people."


Mr Emmanuel noted that Nigeria has, for several years, been rocked with speculations and permutations of imminent collapse and demise as a united country, and observed further that, "though the contours of our unity may not be straight, though the lines of development may be zigzag, the tone and tenor of our discourse discordant and divergent, but the soul, the spirit and the identity of our Nation remain sacrosanct."


He cited the opinions of some notable Nigerian leaders, Late Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa, Late Sir Ahmadu Bello and Chief Solomon Lar, on the strength of the country in its diversity, and lamented that, "the very issues they spoke so eloquently about, our Unity in Diversity, have, instead of being our bulwark, become wedge issues, standing in the way to our unity and the definition of our common purpose as a untied, indissoluble Nation, shaped by common aspirations and hopes."


The Akwa Ibom State chief executive officer was of the opinion that the diversities of the country "have been exploited by the purveyors of divisive narratives, enlarged by the merchants of tribalism, and promoted to a level that has created a chasm of alienation amongst our people.


He however believed that Nigerians are inherently united and believe in the sanctity of the Nation, but are in dire need of a galvanizing force to deepen the cords of unity.

He recounted how unity of purpose propelled Nigeria to a first ever Olympic Football Gold medal, despite having to overcome serious hurdles against Brazil in the semi finals and Argentina in the final match; and agreed with a member of that winning team, Victor Ikpeba, who said, "when it comes to football, everybody puts aside the tribalism we have back home. Everybody becomes united.”

The Governor insisted that when united, no foe can withstand the Nigerians.

"Nigeria is a nation that is diverse, and beautiful as a coat of many colours. What tends to divide us should bring us together. Is it tribe, is it language, or is it food, or is it dance or is it religion?


"Take, for instance, the consumption of kola nut. Few know that it is grown in the Southwest, used for prayers in the East, and consumed for recreation in the North. It comes to life among the Yoruba, gives life in Igboland and is lively in the jaws of the Hausa man.

"In the same way, a lot of our onions come from the far North; it enriches Ofe Nsalla in the East, Ewedu in the Southwest and Afang soup in my house in Uyo."


He maintained that "in the rougher days of Boko Haram, the militants burned Churches and Mosques, and they slaughtered Muslims and Christians. Who were the soldiers fighting to save the whole of the country? We did not say it is a Northern fight, so no Southern soldier should go there. It was not a Fulani soldier or an Ibibio infantryman. It was the Nigerian soldier."



Mr Emmanuel observed that "many individuals and groups have taken umbrage at the over-centralization of power at the centre, perceived marginalization of some parts of the country" and suggested these are sore points that give fillip to the agitations for balance and equity in the country.

He warned that, "we cannot afford to run a country where some parts of our country feel marginalised or left out of the scheme of things as this is a potent threat to the unity of the country.

"We must ensure that there is equity and justice and that no part of the country is made to feel less of itself as this will definitely not augur well for our union.

"Hence many have said we need a more equitable union, where no one feels short-changed or short-circuited or left behind.

Governor Emmanuel advised the Nigerian elites to work towards the unity of the country, and help resolve issues like VAT, restructuring, zonings, herdsmen that tend to destabilise the Nation.



Goodwill messages were also received from eminent personalities like Alhaji Atiku Abubakar GCON, Governor Nasir El-Rufai who was represented by His Commissioner for Human Services, Hafsat Mohammed Baba, Amb. Shehu Malami, Mr. Boni Haruna, Sen. Abdul Ningi, Sen. Ehigie Uzamare among others.

Earlier, upon his arrival in Kaduna, Governor Emmanuel was received by Governor Nasir El-Rufai at Government House, Kaduna.

Governor Udom Emmanuel was accompanied to the event by Chief Assam Assam SAN, Rt. Hon. David Lawrence, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Comrade Ini Ememobong, as well as his SSA on Security Capt. Iniobong Ekong(Rtd), his Chief Press Secretary Ekerete Udo, SA on Public Affairs, Raphael Edem, and media aides Essien Ndueso, Aniekeme Finbarr and Solomon Eyo.

The Akwa Ibom State Government has flagged off the distribution of more educational materials to public secondary schools in the state.

The Commissioner for Education, Mrs Idongesit Etiebet who performed the ceremony, was full of praises for the Governor for his commitments towards improving the learning environment in the state.

"His Excellency has declared a state -of-Emergency in Education implying that Education is now receiving priority in Akwa Ibom state.

"In view of this and to boost quality education, recently His Excellency has also sponsored the production of thousands of copies of the mathematics text book (Principles of Mathematics for Secondary Schools and Colleges)authored by Nduenyi, A.E.

"This is to help students improve their performances in mathematics. Several copies of the book have so far been distributed to our secondary schools.

"Today marks another turning point in our education milestone. Before us are 60,000 copies of customized English and Mathematics textbooks for SS1 to SS111 respectively. The second batch of these books will be delivered next week,Etiebiet said.

The event which took place at the Ministry of Education Headquarters featured goodwill messages from the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Chairman of the State Technical Schools Board Mr. Godwin Udom, Special Assistant to the Governor on Education monitoring, Akparawa Udeme Udofia, Nigerian Union of Teachers.

Speaking on behalf of all the Principals in the state the state chairman, All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools, (ANCOPSS), Mrs Roseline InyangIbom commended the Governor for his passion to ensure quality education to secure the future of Akwa Ibom children, stating that the education materials are of high quality.

Highpoint of the event was the presentation of the Educational materials to school principals to take to their schools.

...as Ime Uwah Mobilizes for Voters' Registration


The Special Assistant to Governor Udom Emmanuel on Media, Rev'd Richard Peters has urged his people to get involved in the ongoing voters registration exercise.

He stated that this will grant them the power to elect leaders of their choice in 2023, and rescue Nigeria from the present quagmire of bad leadership.

Rev'd Peters made the statement earlier today, during the flag off of the continuous voters registration exercise which was sponsored by the Special Assistant to Governor Udom Emmanuel on Brand Marketing, Mr. Ime Uwah, across the 43 units of Uyo Ward 6 six.

Addressing the crowd at the venue, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Rev'd Richard Peter said that the essence of bringing the exercise closer to the people is to ensure a massive participation of all and sundry, in order to give everyone the opportunity to exercise their franchise during the 2023 general elections and choose their leaders wisely.

Speaking on the need for people to be massively involved in the voters exercise, he emphasized that citizens should watch carefully and choose wisely the political party in which they would vote for during the 2023 general elections, and shun any political party that is not organized, both at the state and national level. His words:

"There is need for all of us to get involved in the voters registration exercise, in order to join in the "operation rescue Nigeria" from the present quagmire of bad leadership that has crippled the economy and growth of the country. Don't vote for a political party that is very disorganized and unstable, both in the State and at the National level. A political party that cannot cordinate and conduct a successful ward and state congress, is not reliable, and no leader should be voted to emerge from such a political party."

Rev'd Peters also hinted that the Permanent Voters Card, apart from giving citizens the right to exercise their franchise, can also enable the citizens to carry out other transactions, especially in the bank or any other organization.

He extoled Governor Udom Emmanuel for his excellent leadership prowess that has shown transparency and accountability. He called on all Akwa Ibom citizens to join hands and support the Governor to achieve his Completion Agenda.


Rev'd Peters further extended the exercise to three days in Ikot Okubo offot in order to capture everyone in the area.


The clergy paid glowing tributes to Mr. Ime Uwah, Special Assistant to the Governor on Brand Marketing for sponsoring the biometric capturing of the voters' registration for the people of Ward 6, adding that the gesture by the Governor's aide is a relief from the stress of going to the INEC office for the exercise. He prayed God to bless Mr. Ime Uwah.

The Village Head of Ikot Okubo Offot, Eteidung Monday Utuk encouraged everyone to register, as the exercise is not a political party affair, and hinted that the PVC gives everyone the power to elect their leaders for a better society. He prayed God to bless and guide the people while the exercise lasts.

Present during the exercise, was the Ward Chairman of Uyo Ward 6, Mr. Imo Mfon Uwah and other stakeholders.

Ahead of 2023 general elections, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has commence membership electronic registration and revalidation exercise to expand its membership base in Akwa Ibom State.

The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel who performed the flag-off exercise on Tuesday at Ibom Hall Ground, Uyo, enjoined party faithfuls to take advantage of the exercise which puts an end to rigorous procedure posed by the analogue method.

The Governor expressed appreciation to the party for introducing the innovations to ease registration of members and announced the donation of smart phones to all the wards in the State to assist those without smartphones in the registration process.

“I am glad that Akwa Ibom is chosen as one of the States by our party for a scheme of this nature, we got everything ready for the exercise, and you could see the speed which my information was captured immediately.

I want to implore all of us make sure we register, this will mean a whole lot to us as a state and to the party. This is easily adaptive to any smartphone that people could use to register, we will present the smartphones across all the wards so that it will be easier for people to register please make sure you register”.

Governor Emmanuel further advised Party members to accommodate one another in order to strengthen the party especially those who defected and are willing to rejoin the party.

‘’I want to thank the party structure, the State Working Committee for their steadfastness, please we must continue to accommodate people, let us accommodate as many as we can, let us open up and try to tolerate people.

God did not create every human being the same, people have different temperament, different attitude, character, behavioural pattern, so we should be able to accommodate others so that we can move forward. If you are in a unit or ward even if somebody had gone out or astray and the person wants to come back, let's give the person an open hand, it is very interesting and good to belong to a winning team”, the governor said.

Earlier, the State Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party, Elder Aniekan Akpan, while setting the tone for the event, welcomed party members to the flag-off registration exercise and revalidation of party members, stating that the exercise was in sync with an earlier flag-off of the exercise in six others PDP states in the country.

Elder Akpan, who described the e-registration and revalidation of members of the party as historic, averred that the commencement of the e-registration ends the analogue method of registration, providing a platform for self-registration and making it easier and faster for members.

“This exercise we strongly believe as a party will ensure that we migrate from the analogue process of registration to a digital platform with attendant benefits.

"Apart from making the registration process easier, faster, open and less cumbersome, it also provides members with a transparent platform for self-registration and eliminate cases of registration denial”, Akpan added.

https://www-vanguardngr-com.cdn.ampproject.org/wp/s/www.vanguardngr.com/2021/10/udom-flags-off-pdp-membership-e-registration-in-akwa-ibom/amp/?usqp=mq331AQKKAFQArABIIACAw%3D%3D

- You Are Not Our Party Leader

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.



Read more https://nowupdateonline.com.ng/2021/10/26/apc-chairman-disowns-godswill-akpabio/

Music is art and the purpose of art is always, ultimately, to give pleasure on this note;

MMAC Entertainment in partnership with Akwa Ibom Recording Artistes Association (AIRAA) proudly brings to you:

Catch Up Concert, a music concert set to hold the 19th November 2021 at Emerald Events Center

Featuring:

Freelance Free and Supreme Lifestyle both from the USA, Supersonic Blaze, Ikpa Udo, Lybra, Zillionz, Asari Duke, DJ Santo, Ice Flames and many more....

Guest Appearance:

Queen of BBN Season6
Ime Bishop aka Okon Lagos

On the wheels of steel:

Legendary DJ Peejay
DJ Jemmmy the turntable goddess

Tickets
Regular 2000
VIP 5000

For Table Reservations call 08122440601

Tickets are available at:

XL FM (4lanes)

Macgrill (2lanes)

Descanso Resort (Ewet housing)

Silverbird Cinema (Tropicana Mall)

Proudly Akwa Ibom... No be for mouth!

#catchupconcertuyo

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.

Governor Udom Emmanuel has commended the Global Peace Foundation in collaboration with Vision Africa, organisers of the three day Inclusive retreat on Security held at Warrenton, Virginia, United States of America.

Mr. Emmanuel made the commendation while fielding questions from state House Correspondents on his arrival at the Victor Attah International Airport , Uyo.

The governor who said the retreat was timely and expressed optimism that Nigeria would benefit from the retreat.

The state chief executive was optimistic that collaborative efforts of all Nigerians across sociopolitical and ethno-religious devides was needed to restore peace in the country.



The governor said the current situation in Nigeria has called for concern of all Nigerians and even non-Nigerians, stressing that it has become imperative for the various sections of the nation to unanimously acknowledge peace as a basic need and seek ways to achieve it.



Read more https://nowupdateonline.com.ng/2021/10/22/governor-emmanuel-relishes-gains-of-security-retreat-in-the-us/

... Trade and Investment Commissioner inaugurates committee, gives ten working days ultimatum

Planning Committee for the graduation ceremony of Ibom 3000 Project participants was on Monday inaugurated by the Honourable Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Prince Ukpong Akpabio with the Director of Industry, Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Essien Ibanga as Chairman.

The Committee was given ten working days to give strategic planning and recommendations including a suitable date for the graduation ceremony and fundamental starter packages to the graduating students. The Commissioner also charged the Committee members, especially the trainees to include suggestions meant to improve the second batch of the project in their planning, reiterating that Governor Emmanuel believes in human capital development to be cardinal to a prosperous and peaceful Akwa Ibom.

Members of the planning committee were strategically selected to cover the different units of the training which includes Oil and Gas, ICT, SME and Agriculture. Each unit has two representatives in the Committee. The Committee also has the Director of Investment, Mrs Mfon Ekanem, Director of Commerce, Mr. Aniefiok Idiong, the information officer, Mr. Cletus Udo, the head of the Enterprise Center, Mr. Kemfon Decade and Barrister Idongesit Etim.

IBOM 3000 Project is a human capital development initiative of the governor Udom Emmanuel's adminstration anchored by the Ministry of Trade and Investment. The first batch of the training flagged off in March trained 1000 youths in market-in-demand skills covering Oil and Gas, ICT, SME and Agriculture. With the conclusion of the last set of ICT trainees in August, the Akwa Ibom state government is set to officially graduate the participants. The participants were promised basic certification in different fields of endeavour to help them compete for job openings in the labour market. Government also says apart from recommending the graduands for jobs, that the training is also to prepare manpower for the different industries on the way in the state, especially in the oil and gas sector.

The member representing Itu/Ibiono-Ibom at the National Assembly, Rt. Hon Dr. Henry Archibong has called for trust for Governor Udom Emmanuel's succession plan.

He said this during the Maiden Edition of the Roundtable discussion with members of the Uyo Senatorial District Media Practitioners Forum (USDMPF) in his residence in Itu.

Archibong who observed that Governor Emmanuel had always leaned on God for direction, assured that the State leader would never give a wrong direction. He therefore urged members of the State to pray "that God gives him the power to give a good direction for us to follow. Giving direction is different from deciding for the people. A good leader’s direction is followed naturally.”

"If the Governor is there at that vantage position, he knows who can best consolidate on his achievements. We don't want an experience where we think of someone as being competent only to be disappointed in the end. The economy is going to get bad. So, we need a resourceful person. And someone who is a manager of resources with a triple A rating in the mangement of economy should be able to know what kind of Governor we need at this time", the lawmaker stressed.

While appraising the Governor's sterling achievements in 6 years, Archibong extolled the State's Chief Executive for ensuring the prompt payment of salaries and for creating a safe and secure society.

" This state does not owe salaries. When a person works and gets his salary, no matter how small, he lives long and lives for his family and can plan.
Secondly, Akwa Ibom is the destination of choice for every activity of the Federal government because of it's safety. It is the second state with the highest volume of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) next to Lagos because it is safe for investors to come in", he noted.

Attributing these feats to the Governor's ingenuity and integrity, Henry Archibong applauded the infrastructural strides of Governor Emmanuel and relished their benefits.

"The Governor is not a typical politician that dribbles, disrespects people or is wasteful. He has the reach and connection and has enabled the employment of our youths into relevant industries".

The Lawmaker who commended the State Governor for completing the projects left unfinished by the previous administration, submitted that such was necessary for continuity and maintenance of democracy.

"He came in and ensured that he completed all unfinished projects of the previous administration. So whether people say he did not start it or not, it does not matter because government is a continuum".

Also mentioning the Dakaada Tower, the smartest building in West Africa, Rt. Hon. Archibong told the Media body that multinationals outside the state will have no excuse not to relocate to the State.

He furthered that the ongoing expansion from the Airport road was necessary to curb traffic from the Airport and the Ibom Deep Seaport once it becomes operational.

The Federal Lawmaker who appealed to people of the state to be united in purpose with the Governor said that all of Governor Emmanuel's plans were targeted at bettering the lot of the entire populace and not a figment of his personal interests.

He pledged to continue to represent his constituency well with more life touching bills, motions, empowerment programmes. He said by next week, he will be championing the establishment of a new Federal Agricultural Tertiary Institution For Akwa Ibom State through a bill.