Governor Udom Emmanuel has announced the automation of Akwa Ibom State Civil Service and Asset Management System (AMS) for transparency and efficiency of its operations.

Governor Emmanuel made this known on Thursday, while declaring open a one-day Training Workshop on the Human Resource Management System (HRMS) for the State Executive Council members at Ibom Icon Hotels and Golf Resort, Uyo.

The Governor said the automation of the service will reposition it for more efficiency and seamless operations, adding that challenges earlier experienced with promotions, retirements, pensions and gratuity will be a thing of the past as errors will be minimised.

The State Chief Executive further said the full automation of the service will be completed by January 31, 2022, assuring that the integration of the Human Resource Management System and Asset Management System will be safe as its operations will be backed with an efficient storage device to enhance productivity.

“We want to leave the Civil Service much better than we met, we will first of all start with automation of the full Asset Management Processes of government and we want to do automation of the contract systems, how contracts are awarded, how they are being paid for, how they are monitored, how progress is made, everything then completion and releases.

'Then the critical aspect that we must anchor from the point you join the Civil Service up to the point you become a pensioner is what we are doing right now it is called Human Resource Management (HRM) application software which is what we are doing right now and we intend to do a live cut-over by January 31 so that we can go live.

"Every single person must go live by January 31. So anybody coming to work on February 1 in the MDAs is coming into a total different approach and I'm believing that the Asset Management will do a total cutover by March 31.

"So by April 1, I won't do anything manual again, including vehicle requisitions.

"What that means is that a whole lot of things that were done manually before now will be fully automated. We are trying to make it user friendly and you can access it anywhere with your phones and laptops once you have a smart device you can access the system especially the HRM system where you can check on any information.

"The benefits are enormous in terms of cost, efficiency and information management and we are trying to reduce error in the system”

‘’The whole complaints about pension, gratuity, even issues of payroll, promotions, ghost workers, paying the wrong people and the likes, will be sorted out immediately, so once people enter this system, the system will work automatically: promotions, retirement, pensions, and gratuity; it is supposed to be a fully integrated HRM systems", the Governor added.

In his opening remarks, the Head of Civil Service, Elder Effiong Essien thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel for his policy to introduce automation of the Civil Service, which he noted will upgrade operations of service from analogue to digital.

Elder Essien said the training and re-training of key and principal operators of Human Resource Management remains a cardinal objective of enhancing efficiency of Civil Service, and appealed to the Governor to build a data center to store hardware components of Human Resource Management.

"Let me thank the Governor for giving us the idea to push and the needed resources to introduce this system of efficiently running the Akwa Ibom Civil/Public Service and thereby upgrading it from analogue to digital and automated service.

"Please permit me your Excellency the Governor to request Ministry of Housing to expedite action on the building of a Data Center for safe housing of the hardware components of both the HRMS and AMS", he added.

A former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Arc ( Obong) Victor Attah has canvassed support for Governor Udom Emmanuel's succession plan.

Obong Attah made the call in Uyo during an audience with members of the Uyo Senatorial District Media Practitioners Forum .

The 'Eduek Ekpe' who expressed interest in the Governor's succession plan, expressed his concern about who becomes the next governor of Akwa Ibom State

"As a Governor, I could not have left the state the way i met it and the development of Akwa Ibom has been dear to my heart", he said.

"Any person who wants to govern Akwa Ibom must tell the people what he wants to do and how he intends to go about it, he added".

The former Governor called on Governor Emmanuel to dialogue with the people to guide against avoidable mistakes in the choice of a successor.

Obong Attah also noted that naming anyone now without the acceptance of the people may frustrate the process from being actualized.

He further stressed that the idea of a University of Technology in Akwa Ibom was to meet the technology needs of the state and nation at large for wealth creation and accelerated economic development.

"Any Science Park in the world is a centre for foreign exchange where millions of dollars are made through incubation of ideas and software production. So, the idea of a Science Park and the University of Technology should not be jettisoned ", he said.

In his remarks, , the former governor commended the Uyo Senatorial District Media Practitioners Forum for her initiatives and support for the government of Mr Udom Emmanuel and his succession plan

Reacting to the former Governor's remarks, Chairman of the Forum, Elder Ofonimeh Isong appealed to Obong Attah not to relent in his support and assistance to Governor Emmanuel, especially in the choice of a successor.

He informed the former governor that the Uyo Senatorial District Media Practitioners Forum is in strategic partnership with relevant agencies to ensure the success of the completion agenda of His Excellency, the governor.

Those in the audience with Obong Attah were the Vice Chairman of the Forum and Publisher, Dailynews Newspaper, Prince. Emmanuel Ndon, Director, Contact and Mobilization, Mr. Victor Ukpong, Chairman Board of Trustees, Comrade Joseph Okon, Special Assistant to the State Governor on Project Monitoring, Comrade Ernest Akpan, Reverend Osendu Ahirika, Secretary Board of Trustees, Reverend Richard Peters.

A former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Arc ( Obong) Victor Attah has canvassed support for Governor Udom Emmanuel's succession plan.

Obong Attah made the call in Uyo during an audience with members of the Uyo Senatorial District Media Practitioners Forum .

The 'Eduek Ekpe' who expressed interest in the Governor's succession plan, expressed his concern about who becomes the next governor of Akwa Ibom State

"As a Governor, I could not have left the state the way i met it and the development of Akwa Ibom has been dear to my heart", he said.

"Any person who wants to govern Akwa Ibom must tell the people what he wants to do and how he intends to go about it, he added".

The former Governor called on Governor Emmanuel to dialogue with the people to guide against avoidable mistakes in the choice of a successor.

Obong Attah also noted that naming anyone now without the acceptance of the people may frustrate the process from being actualized.

He further stressed that the idea of a University of Technology in Akwa Ibom was to meet the technology needs of the state and nation at large for wealth creation and accelerated economic development.

"Any Science Park in the world is a centre for foreign exchange where millions of dollars are made through incubation of ideas and software production. So, the idea of a Science Park and the University of Technology should not be jettisoned ", he said.

In his remarks, , the former governor commended the Uyo Senatorial District Media Practitioners Forum for her initiatives and support for the government of Mr Udom Emmanuel and his succession plan

Reacting to the former Governor's remarks, Chairman of the Forum, Elder Ofonimeh Isong appealed to Obong Attah not to relent in his support and assistance to Governor Emmanuel, especially in the choice of a successor.

He informed the former governor that the Uyo Senatorial District Media Practitioners Forum is in strategic partnership with relevant agencies to ensure the success of the completion agenda of His Excellency, the governor.

Those in the audience with Obong Attah were the Vice Chairman of the Forum and Publisher, Dailynews Newspaper, Prince. Emmanuel Ndon, Director, Contact and Mobilization, Mr. Victor Ukpong, Chairman Board of Trustees, Comrade Joseph Okon, Special Assistant to the State Governor on Project Monitoring, Comrade Ernest Akpan, Reverend Osendu Ahirika, Secretary Board of Trustees, Reverend Richard Peters.

Source: Edet Ikotidem

Governor Udom Emmanuel has rededicated the state to God, attributing the rising profile of Akwa Ibom State’s development and prevailing peace to God’s unfailing mercies and guidance.

Governor Emmanuel who led top government functionaries on Sunday at a Special Interdenominational Solemn Assembly to rededicate the state to God and usher in year 2022, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Uyo, called on Akwa Ibom to thank God for sustaining the state through challenges in recent years.

The governor who acknowledged the peace and development witnessed over the years in state, stated that the development attained in the state had been a collective contributions of illustrious sons of the state, assuring that in line with the theme of 2022, 'There Shall be a Performance' God will prosper the state in the new year.

"Every year we gather like this to seek the face of God, this State as we all know belongs to God that is why I refer to Akwa Ibom in my speeches as God's own piece of real estate.

"God is the great and mighty warrior who has never disappointed us as a state over the years through His love mercy and guidance which is why we have come here collectively as a people and as a state to thank Him for allowing us see the year 2022, for what He has done and what He will continue to do"

‘’What has happened in this state is what I call imprimatur of God's invisible hands; from the peace and development to the rising profile of our state as a destination of choice for investors, conferences; to the sectoral achievements we have recorded which has earned us the national acclaim Nigeria's best kept secret. There is no doubt that God is doing a great and mighty thing in the state’’

The Chief Executive of the State assured Akwa Ibom people of his commitment in delivering on his promises, stating that with some challenges earlier witnessed from climate to other unforeseen issues all developmental projects in the state will be completed.

‘’The year 2021 was a difficult one from the harvests of deaths that we had to the manifestation of what scientists call climate change.

"People will agree with me that we have never seen such a rainfall like that of last year and the attendant delay of most of our road construction and other infrastructural expansion.

"We thank God that in spite of these factors coupled with the Covid-19, we have remained totally focus in fulfilling our governance obligations to the best of the resources available’’

He however called on Akwa Ibom people to take responsibility towards building the state corroborating the homily by Rev. Fr Justin Udomah who urged the people to be citizens thinking about the progress and growth of another person.

The governor used the occasion to cautioned persons aspiring for political office in 2023 not to heat up the polity, rather should go about it peacefully in order not to disrupt the peace and development in the state, adding that God in due time will reveal his successor

‘’This year all those who seek political office in 2023 will seek in peace and people should also realize that even if there up to 100 people there is only one seat and one man will sit and as the homily said no matter what we do it is only the Lord’s council that shall stand’’.

The governor took the only Bible reading from Isaiah 60: 1-6.

Mr Emmanuel also led in Offertory Procession alongside Deputy Governor, Speaker Akwa Ibom House of Assembly and Secretary to the State Government.
Prayers of rededication were made to God on behalf the State.

Delivering a homily on the theme of the event, "There Shall be a Performance", culled from Luke 1:45, with reference to Isaiah 60:1-6, the Very Rev. Father Justine Udoma said it was high time Akwa Ibom people arose to the shining that God had purposed for them.

The Catholic Priest, stressing that no one can stop God's purpose from coming to fruition, admonished that what every Akwa Ibomite from all walks of life ought to do is to believe, and work together, irrespective of differences, towards the performance of his promises, lest anyone be cut off the bounty of God's blessing like the king's officer (2Kings 7) who doubted the word of the Lord in Samaria.

Governor Udom Emmanuel has called on all Akwa Ibom people to remain hopeful, trusting God for better days in the state and country at large.

Governor Emmanuel spoke on Saturday, during a New Year Worship Service at Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion Diocese of Uyo.

The Governor who was accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Martha Udom Emmanuel and family, some State Executive Council members, welcomed Akwa Ibom people into year 2022 with the optimism that the state and country will evade the challenges faced in 2021.

‘’Today is New Year's day, I stand here to wish everybody a happy new year, I pray that this year shall be a much better year for us as a country and for us as a state and for you as an individual and your family.”

The Chief Executive noted that in line with the theme of the state in 2022, ‘There Shall be a Performance’, God will reveal his successor in due time, adding that whoever God reveals as his successor will have the same confirmation without confusion.

‘’Our theme as a state is that ‘There Shall Be a Performance’ of what the Lord has told me as a governor, as a leader and if what God is telling you is different from what He is telling me it means it is not from God, it could be a personal opinion.

"But this year shall be a year of that performance of what God has told me including my successor. So if anybody mentions anything to you know that it is not from God it can’t be different from who God has told me and shown unto me.’’

The Governor advised detractors to desist from giving the state a bad image from peddling unverified reports and rumours on social media, pointing out that with the current trend of issues in the country, it calls for appreciation and gratitude to God for blessing the state especially throughout what the nation went through in 2020 and 2021.

"What is happening in our state, a lot of people may not understand, Jesus Christ said hereinafter you will understand.

"A lot of people may not understand and we can pardon them, because so many people that write and talk in the social media, some of them are never exposed to what is happening around the globe so when they see things instead of giving thanks and all the glory to God, they say things that will not glorify God.”

Governor Emmanuel thanked the Anglican Communion Church, Uyo Diocese for their fervent prayers for the state.

He redeemed a pledge of N10 million in support of the building project of the Bishop’s house, and also donated a bus for Anglican Communion, Uyo Diocese Choir.

In his homily, the Bishop, Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, Uyo Diocese, Rev. Prince Antai, who titled his message, ‘Faith that Activates God’s Promises’, culled his text from Gen: 12: 1- 3, enjoined Christian believers to live a life of obedience to God’s word and faith which will bring the will of God to pass.

‘’Faith is the ability to believe God without questioning God. When you obey God you will prosper, through the dark tunnel of obedience, the light shall shine. There is a specific miracle for those who obey God.’’

...as the MPM Steering Committee and youths of Ini LGA pledge their
loyalty to the Governor’s Succession plan

In a brief event which took place today, December 31 at the Ini Council Secretariat, Odoro Ikpe, the Ini MPM Coordinating Committee ably led by Dr. Glory Edet and onbehalf of governor Udom Emmanuel has distributed Christmas and end of year packages to youths of Ini LGA.

During the presentation, Dr. Edet extolled Governor Udom Emmanuel for a peaceful atmosphere and for touching the lives of Akwa Ibom people through his industrialization and infrastructural renaissance. She added that the packages disbursed is at the instance of the Governor.
"The rice and cash we are giving out today is from Governor Udom Emmanuel in appreciation to the youths for supporting his administration". She added.

The Agriculture Boss who is also MPM's National Director of Special Duties reminded the participants of the need to continue to demonstrate firm loyalty to Governor Udom Emmanuel and wholeheartedly support his succession plan.

She also charged the youths to take the ongoing e-registration exercise of PDP seriously and advised against any vices that may portray Ini and the state in bad light.


Also speaking, the Ini MPM Secretary and Member Ini state constituency, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ekpenyong who is also the MPM National Director of Intelligence lauded the Governor for distributing Christmas packages to Ini MPM and other groups in the state and promised the continued support of Ini youths to the administration of Governor Udom.

In his response, the Ini MPM Youth Coordinator/Youth Caucus Chairman, Comrade Iboro Nnah appreciated the Governor for his support to the youths of Ini nay Akwa Ibom and pledged his unwavering support to the administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel.

...As Government doles out millions of naira to MEGP Pitch Deck Winners

The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has listed perseverance, sustained interest and commitment as major characteristics every entrepreneur should strive to posses if they must make their marks in the business landscape. Governor Emmanuel made this assertion Wednesday, during the certification ceremony and induction dinner organized for batch V participants of the Akwa Ibom State Youths Entrepreneurial Development Programme tagged My Entrepreneurship Goals Programme (MEGP).

The Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Environment and Solid Minerals, Sir Charles Udo, charged the Participants of the MEGP who were newly inducted into Alumni Network, to join him in transforming the history of the state from a mere Civil Service and political jobers' state to one of the major industrial hubs in the country as no economy can ever develop by relying only on public Sector. Udom praised his Senior Special Assistant on Marketing and Brand Management, Mr Ime Uwah for effectively driving his vision in entrepreneurial development, innovation and business education, describing him (Uwah) as an entrepreneur in words and deeds.

Earlier in his tone setting remarks, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Marketing and Brand Management, Mr Ime Uwah expressed delight on the massive turn out and interest Of Akwa Ibom Young Entrepreneurs towards the MEGP batch V, which according to him, is a clear indication of the value that our youths place on business knowledge acquisition. Uwah said the 5th batch of the MEGP trainings received the largest applications for admission into the programme with over a thousand applicants applying for only two hundred slots.

Speaking further, the Governor's aide thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel for expanding the scope and capacity of the programme as evident in the larger training facility and richer training module. He however stressed that as Governor Udom Emmanuel's tenure gradually winds down, there was need for successive governments to ensure that the programme is sustained beyond the Udom Emmanuel years, so as to consolidate on the positive impacts of the programme in the Akwa Ibom State business sphere.

Good will messages we received from dignitaries at the event, including the SSA on multilateral and donor agencies, Mr Ndiana Abasi Udom, SSA on youth matters Mr Aniefiok Wilson Iwaudofia, as well as Dr. Wisdom Patrick Enang, who is the operations engineering Lead at ExxonMobil. Other dignitaries who graced the certification dinner include representatives of the Honourable Commissioner for Lands and Water resources, Pastor Umo Eno, and that of trade and investment, Prince Ukpong Akpabio, wife of the commissioner for Local Government and chieftaincy affairs, Mrs Bright Archibong, Nollywood star Ini Edo, as well as the special Assistant to the Governor on Entrepreneurial Development, Mrs. Meflyn Anwana.

The event also featured the presentation of certificates and induction of the batch 5 participants into the MEGP alumni network, and climaxed at the announcement of winners and presentation of prizes to winners of the MEGP Pitch Deck Series 3; During which Perry Essien Nelson won the first prize in the social enterprise category, to clinch the one million naira prize money, while Utonne Ekefre and Udoh Idongesit Kasie won the existing business and start up categories to take home five hundred thousand naira and two hundred and fifty thousand naira respectively. Consolation prizes of varying degrees were also announced for all finalists in all categories.

Participants who spoke with our reporter thanked the state Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel for the MEGP programme which they said has added knowledge and zest to their entrepreneurial pursuit.

...charges women to maintain peace and continue to support Governor Udom’s Completion Agenda

It was an atmosphere filled with songs of appreciation, dance and merriments, Wednesday, 29th December as the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet distributed Christmas packages to the women of Ini LGA cutting accross the eleven wards and numbering over one thousand.

Speaking at a brief presentation ceremony, Dr. Edet noted that the event was in fulfilment of the promise she made to the women few months ago and to celebrate with them in this season of Christmas and new year.

She encouraged the women to be thankful to God and be worthy ambassadors of their gender, irrespective of where they find themselves. While also advising them to take advantage of the ongoing PDP e-registration and revalidation exercise, she enjoined them to remain steadfast in their support for the administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel up until 2023 and beyond.

The Agriculture boss further eulogized the Governor for giving women their pride of place in his administration.

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

Words of commendations were received from women stakeholders of the area and beneficiaries of the various items distributed by the Honourable Commissioner.

The event had in attendance women groups, female Councillors, Female Supervisors, MPM Women Ward Coordinators, PDP women leaders, stakeholders and other dignitaries from across Ini LGA.

Governor Udom Emmanuel has stressed that gratitude is a command from God that must not be taken for granted.

The Akwa Ibom State Governor gave the admonition while speaking at a special thanksgiving service held at St. John's Pro Cathedral, Abak, to commemorate the Eightieth Birthday of the State's Deputy Governor, Mr. Moses Ekpo.

Governor Emmanuel commended Mr. Ekpo's gesture of convening the thanksgiving service to acknowledge God's grace despite the trials of life.

Such attitude, he added, must have been the reason for Mr. Ekpo's continuous rising, warning that the life of ingratitude stalls progress and prosperity.

"We are here because giving thanks is a command.

"There are a lot of dangers of ingratitude and a lot of problems we have in today's world is because of that.

"I'm happy today the Deputy Governor has gone through what he calls the trial and triumph and still has cause today to tell God thank you, because the bible says in every situation we must give God thanks.

"This situation you think is so bad may be the best out of the worse situations the devil had wished for you".

Dwelling further on the virtues of Mr. Moses Ekpo, Governor Emmanuel lauded the outstanding intellectual and oratory capacity of his deputy with which, he said, Ekpo has given the state and his government a proud representation at various fora within and outside the state, without need for a guide.

"If I have a choice for a deputy governor tomorrow, I'll still go for Uncle Mo. He's a fantastic person to work with: very accommodating, very understanding, very collaborating and cooperating", the Governor affirmed.

The Governor therefore took out time to thank God for his deputy's 80th birth anniversary and for Akwa Ibom State, especially for the peace enjoyed in the state, as he made donations to support the church building project initiated by Mr. Ekpo on the occasion.

The celebrator, Mr. Moses Ekpo said the occasion availed him an opportunity to appreciate God's help, his successes and failures, trials and triumphs, and for God's anointing on Governor Emmanuel to pilot the affairs of the state and for the humanitarian disposition of the state First Lady, Martha Emmanuel.

Mr. Moses Ekpo also used the occasion to present gifts to four hundred and nineteen widows drawn from all three Senatorial Districts of the state and all church denominations, selected through the instrumentality of the Christians Association of Nigeria.

This, he said, was to demonstrate his gratitude to God at eighty.

The wife of the Governor, Dr. Martha Emmanuel made symbolic presentation to fourteen widows representing the various fronts benefitting from the birthday cum Christmas package.

In his homily culled from Psalm 92:1 and 136:26, Monsignor Iniobong Udoidem outlined the knowledge of one's identity, his capacity to remember God's deeds and the spirit of gratitude as the three things that inspire thanksgiving.

He admonished that as the one Samaritan among the ten lepers that were cleansed came back to thank Jesus, Christians should acknowledge the goodness of God in preserving them despite the restiveness in parts of the nation.

The Priest who commended Governor Emmanuel for his inclinations to the church, and recommended Mr. Moses Ekpo as a good example to follow.

Governor Udom Emmanuel has joined Christians in Akwa Ibom State to celebrate the 2021 Christmas with a renewed call for fervent prayers for peace in the various regions of Nigeria and appreciation of the peace enjoyed in the state.

The Governor was speaking at the 2021 Christmas Day Service, at United Evangelical Church, Awa Iman in Onna.

He said for Nigeria to attain the needed stability and progress in 2022, peace was inevitable and such peace, he added, does not just come but by efforts and sacrifices of some people behind the scenes.

Elucidating on the significance of Christmas, Governor Emmanuel, likened Nigeria's present situation to that of Judea before Christ came and prayed that the 2021 Christmas birth the needed help to reposition Nigeria in the coming 2022.

"Peace does not come by accident. Peace comes by prayers and the bible says we should pray for peace. That is why I always appreciate men of God who stand in the gap to pray for the peace of our land.

"Nigeria needs a lot of prayers, but my prayer is in accordance with the significance of Christmas. At a time Judah was in turmoil and the entire Israel in a state of confusion, Jesus was born and brought hope to mankind. So my prayer is as we are coming again into another political journey, may it be born to Nigeria, a child that will redeem and give peace to this country", the governor said.

He cautioned Akwa Ibom people against taking the peace enjoyed in the state for granted, attributing the celebrated developmental feats in the state to its peaceful and accommodating ambience.

"I use this opportunity to thank the pastors and the entire Church for praying for me and the entire government. People take things for granted, I don't do that. If you know what is going on in other places you'll thank God for the peace we enjoy here".

The resident Minister of the United Evangelical Church, Rev. Umoh Umoh, in a sermon titled "Immanuel: God with us", drawn from Matthew 1:21-23, said God created the heaven as his throne and the earth as a colony of his kingdom and placed man in it to replicate his will, but man lost his place and glory upon falling into sin. Hence the need for God to initiate a redemption plan through his son, the Christ.

Stressing the essence of Christmas celebrations, the Cleric proclaimed that the coming of Jesus as the Messiah brought forgiveness of sin, redemption from the curse of sin, restoration of righteousness, peace and joy in the earth, as God's colony.

In line with the directive of Governor Udom Emmanuel, serving and retired workers in Akwa Ibom State have started smiling to the bank to get their salaries and pensions.

During the last State Executive Council ( EXCO) on Monday, December 20th, 2021, Governor Emmanuel had directed the immediate payment of December salaries and pensions to both serving and retired workers, to enable them savour the joy and celebrations associated with Christmas.

Reports have it that workers who usually get their salaries on the 26th day of the month were surprised that their phones were already beeping on the 21st of December, and showered appreciation to the Governor for maintaining his workers’ friendly disposition.

The Governor had assured that he was not going to wait for the revenue from the Federation Account as he would do everything to make sure that his workers and retired workers smile during the Yuletide.

“God bless Governor Emmanuel for for all he has done for workers in the State”, an appreciative civil servant said on a social media platform, Facebook.

The Akwa Ibom State Government through the Ministry of Agriculture has collaborated with Big Bird Meat Processing Industries from JAMPUR Group, a United Arab Emirates-based company, to flag off subsidized sales of premier freshly frozen and locally-processed chicken, under the aegis of Ibom Chicken to Akwa Ibom people.

Performing the exercise, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet, lauded the administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel for the conducive environment it has provided for business to thrive which according to her has attracted a great number of investors to the state.

"No investor wants to collaborate with a state where there is no peace. If you go through all the states in the country, in terms of security and conducive business environment, you will agree with me that Akwa Ibom state is the best. This is because we have an ordained man of God as Governor", she added.

Dr. Edet while lauding the partnership of JAMPUR, announced that the company has been given a mandate by the state Government, to takeover the Hatchery facility for the production of Day Old Chicks, poultry feeds, etc.

The event she said was aimed at selling well-tested and properly- processed chicken to Akwa Ibom people at a subsidized rate which according to her is aimed at cushioning the effect of the prevailing high cost of items during this season throughout the country and intimidated that the sales will continue on Wednesday, the 22nd and Thursday, the 30th of December 2021 at 7.0am for both days.

"Everybody knows that the Governor has done well, specifically in the area of Agriculture. Today, other states are sending in an application for us to train them in the green houses cultivation, she said.

Earlier in her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Mary Ukoette while eulogizing Government's partnership with JAMPUR GROUP also noted that the event was possible because of the creativity and visionary leadership of the Governor and ability of the Commissioner to interpret his vision. She further called all and sundry to join Government in its efforts to make the state a hub for Agricultural activities.

The Managing Director of JAMPUR Group, Mr. Abuzar Afzal in his remarks, assured the state Government of the readiness of the renowned Big Bird processing Industry to churn out tangible results and meet the daily needs of poultry farmers across the state.

Goodwill messages were received from the Ministry's Director of Vertinary Services, Dr. Obot Obot and the Director of Administration, Mr. Ifiok Udo.

Highpoint of the event was the sales of processed chicken to members of the public.

The Speaker of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Aniekan Bassey has lauded Rt. Hon Idongesit Ntekpere, member representing Ikot Ekpene /Obot Akara State Constituency at the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly for his love for his people by empowering them regularly.

Mr Bassey made the commendation today at the Martha Udom Emmanuel Development Centre, Ikot Ekpene during the Constituency Briefing and Empowerment Program organized by Rt Hon Ntekpere.

The Speaker who led members of the 7th Assembly to grace the event said, Hon Ntekpere has proven beyond a reasonable doubt, why the people of Ikot Ekpene /Obot Akara LGAs voted him back to back to the House of Assembly for a second term alluding to the fact that he deserves another chance to lead in a higher capacity.

"We are in numbers today to show solidarity and support for our brother and colleague, Rt. Hon Idongesit Ntekpere because he has shown capacity both in the Assembly and here in his constituency, outside his three cardinal responsibilities as a lawmaker.

"He has been giving back to the society through what we are witnesses today and as such, he deserves another chance at a higher level"

The Uruan lawmaker commended the people of Ikot Ekpene /Obot Akara LGAs for their unrelenting support to the state Assembly and the government of Governor Udom Emmanuel which have practically given birth to the dividends of what the people are enjoying today.

The empowerment which was launched by His Excellency Mr Udom Emmanuel ably represented by the Chairman, Ibom Power Ltd, Engr Etido Inyang witnessed a donation of eight minibuses, three motor vehicles, 21 motorcycles, business support fund, six years rent for lock-up stores for small and medium businesses, educational grants, Keke, tippers and sponsorship of skills acquisition training, among others.

…Orders Payment of Salaries, Pensions in Three Days

The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has signed the State’s 2022 Appropriation Law, with a total outlay of N586.9 billion.

The budget, christened, 'Redefining Standards', was passed by the State House of Assembly on Thursday, December 2, 2021.

It has an increase of N4.766 billion, representing 0.8%, from the initial estimate of N582.115 billion presented by the Governor on October 25, 2021.

The Appropriation Act's size covers N261.963 billion of recurrent and N324.918 billion of capital expenditures.

Governor Emmanuel, speaking during an expanded Executive Council meeting, during which he assented the 2022 Appropriation Bill, commended the State House of Assembly, Ministry of Finance, Budget Office, Accountant General and other government agencies involved in the budgetary process for its timely passage.

Expressing hope that funds will be available for optimum implementation, he said “we are believing that with God on our side 2022 will be better than 2021”.

The Governor said it became expedient to sign the bill early enough in the week to allow for smooth winding down of the year 2021 and take-off 2022, considering nearness to Christmas, the accompanying holidays and envisaged reduced productivity of the State's predominantly Christian workforce.

Speaking further, the Governor directed that the State Accountant General, Pastor Andrew Essien, ensures payment of salaries and pension of public servants and retirees in the state on or before Thursday, 23th 2021, to support their Yuletide celebration.

“I have given an order to the Accountant General to try and pay Civil Servants’ salaries almost immediately.

"We are a Christian State, whether Federal Government gives us money or not, we must look for money anywhere to make sure that our people hold their Christmas.

''We need at least N10 Billion to be able to pay salaries and pensioners must also be paid.

"It has to be done between now and Thursday, because Friday is Christmas eve”.

Also at the expanded Executive Council, Governor Emmanuel was formally presented with the recent Cleanest State Award trophy won by the state for the fourth consecutive years.

The Governor commended the Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency, Prince Ikim for making the state proud, tasking the agency to brace up for greater exploits in coming years.

As part of activities heralding Constituency briefing and Empowerment, yesterday, Saturday, December 18, 2021, the mouthpiece of the prestigious people of Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara at the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Prince) Idongest Ntepkere, visited and donated football apparels,nay, accessories to Ikot Ekpene United Football Club.

The quintessential lawmaker, at the Ikot Ekpene Township stadium donated forty (40) pairs of boots, forty (40) balls, a hundred (100) training apparels and two (2) sets of jerseys to the team worth over two million naira, all imported and FIFA standardized.

His Constituency briefing and empowerment programme is scheduled to take place tomorrow Monday, 20th December 2021 at the Martha Udom Women Development Center, Ekokebe Avenue, Ikot Ekpene by 10am.

Whilst addressing the Team, the former player of Mobil Pegasus Football Club, implored the management and players to revive and sustain, the renowned historical exploits of football legends from Ikot Ekpene (1951). He eulogized the laudable feats of Kofine FC (1976), Raffia City FC and inspired the lads by reminding them of the legacies of the Ekarikas, Udo-Idungs, Etokebes...

An array of football personalities, led by Chief Uko Akpabio, President, The Great Football Family, Ikot Ekpene Allstars Family, Comrade Etido Inyang, Chairman Ikot Ekpene Football Association, Mr. Samuel Ukut, Principal, of Obot Akara/Ikot Ekpene Partnership Project, and stakeholders were in attendance, to witnessed the human capacity development and youth friendly empowerment.

In his reaction, the pioneer Team Manager of the famous Kofine Football Club, Akparawa Christopher Eshiet (a.k.a Jeno) appreciated the gesture of the cerebral lawmaker and implored the team to make good use of the donations.

Encouragingly, the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee of Rt. Hon. Idongest Ntepkere's Empowerment/ Upliftment Programme, Engr. Bassey Ntuen, tasked the lads not to misuse the privilege, while urging them to explore the lucrative world of football with the fundamental template put in place, by a passionate member of the football family.

It can be recalled that Ikot Ekpene (1951) has always produced notable, impressive, scintillating, and lucrative players and that record seems to have been paused.

It is believed that this gesture would go a long way in, not merely, reviving football in Ikot Ekpene LGA and its environs, but, in creating a feasible and sustainable environment, where the abundant football talents can be identified, harnessed, collated, nourished and exported within and outside the country.

#NtekpereEmpowers

Governor Udom Emmanuel has sued for reinstitution of basic moral values at the family level, to check the upsurge of social vices and moral decadence plaguing the larger society.

Speaking at the funeral ceremony in honour of Elder Okon Umoren, at Government Primary School field, Ikot Ese Ishiet in Onna Local Government Area, the Akwa Ibom State Governor attributed the glorious exit and honour done the deceased to the meticulous investments in his children's lives.

He acknowledged death as an inevitable end for every man and tasked parents to invest valuably in their children to amass honour for their later days.

Governor Emmanuel said the church, teachers and parents have the responsibility of moulding children into valuable citizens of the society, but stressed that the latter had the most fundamental duty as the family remains a child's first place of learning.

"It is a good thing to have children, but this should also be a lesson that whoever has children should raise them well because you never know how your last days will be.

"The problem the government is facing today is because of the failure of the church, the teachers and the parents because these are the three pillars that used to shape the children before sending them out to the larger society, but in all, charity begins at home. If parents are diligent in raising children, the social vices we have in today's society will be greatly reduced", he added.

The governor, an inlaw to the deceased, appreciated every one who joined the family to give the late Elder Umoren a befitting farewell.

Bishop Uduakobong Akpan of Eket Diocese of the Methodist Church, Nigeria, in his homily, taken from Psalm 90:12, said it was unwise for any man to live without considering what his life at the moment means to another man and to God.

He admonished Christians to apply wisdom in whatever they do and live their lives with the consciousness of having to render an account of their stewardship to God at a time that they cannot determine.

A socio-cultural organization that seeks to promote the rich cultural heritage of Akwa Ibom people and the usage of indigenous language at homes and at public fora, the Bring Back Our Language Foundation, has officially inducted the Special Assistant to Governor Udom Emmanuel on Research and Documentation, Mr. Essien Ndueso as its brand ambassador.

Announcing his induction, Monday on a visit to the Governor's aide at Government House, Uyo, the leader of the group, Mr Michael Umoh, who lauded Mr Ndueso for supporting the ideals of the group, said it was heartwarming to have him officially inducted as an ambassador of the association.

He said the Association earlier recognised the media professional as a patron during its converge on Uyo last week, but had to also formally induct him as an ambassador to cement him with more responsibilities.

He recounted the numerous times he had relied on the advice of the aide, and sued for more of such supports.

"Our group is non political and seeks to promote the use of our indigenous language by Akwa Ibom people, I thank you for the support and solidarity and wish we would have more of the support", Umoh added.

Reacting, the Governor's aide thanked the group for being in the forefront of advocacy for the preservation and promotion of the culture of an Akwa Ibom person, which he noted remains the best means of identification of a people.

He stressed the need for Akwa Ibom people to be proud of their culture, and to at all times promote the usage of their language.

Mr Ndueso tasked parents not to allow the native language go extinct in their homes, saying everyone must inculcate the consciousness in the minds of their children by ensuring that the language is used both at home and public places, including schools, church, market and public gatherings.

The Governor's Aide cited instances where one travels to other states and easily identifies people from other tribe because of how frequent they communicate in their language, while an Akwa Ibom person would rather chose to speak English with a fellow Akwa Ibomite he or she meets within and outside the state.


"When you travel outside the state you'll find that you'll easily identify people from other tribes from the way they use their native language, while you would hardly ever identify an Akwa Ibomites because they always want to speak English".

"I promise with the ability God has given me to support you on this selfless service and sacrifice that you have embarked on to reinforce our language usage", he said.

He promised to use the various programmes sponsored by the office of the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor,Mr Ekerete Udoh, to promote the use of indigenous languages and the ideals of the association.

…Eket Sports Stadium to be commissioned January 2022.

The Akwa Ibom State Governor Mr. Udom Emmanuel has presented N100 million, one 32 Seater Bus and a plot of land each to Akwa United Football Club (FC) players for winning the first ever Nigeria Football Professional League (NFPL) for the state in 2020/2021 football season.

The Governor announced this during the official reception for Akwa United FC, Thursday, at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo.

Governor Emmanuel who expressed appreciation to the team for making the state proud by emerging champions of the elite division of the Football League, urged them to stay unbeaten in the new football season which commences this December, promising his continuous support to the team.

‘’I thank the Nigeria Football Federation, my Commissioner for Youths and Sports, my entire Executive Council members for their support, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, the judiciary, the stakeholders, religious leaders for their prayers, women, youths, security agencies, the entire team who played the matches, and all those who stood by us to achieve this success

"Let me specially say that I am proud of the team, you have done us proud, and from the coach to those who have gone for greener pastures outside we are grateful for this achievement.

"Often they say that getting to the top is not a problem but you must stay at the top, so you must maintain, you must sustain, you must keep it up

‘’Chairman these are the keys to a brand new 32 seater bus for your team, I have the permission of the Executive members that the entire team that won the first league in this State whether you are from Akwa Ibom or not all of you including the coach will be given a plot of land in Akwa Ibom State.

"We will also give you the sum of N100 million so that it will encourage you to do more. As government we promise we will support you fully and I have made that commitment, if you call me next year to lift the CAF trophy I will double what I have given today”, the Governor promised.

Governor Emmanuel appreciated the efforts and contributions of the Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Mr. Monday Uko and the Chairman of Akwa United Football Club, who is also the Senior Special Assistant(SSA) to the Governor on Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, for their selfless sacrifices which has earned the team success.

The Chief Executive of the state also announced that Eket Sports Stadium will be commissioned in January, 2022, assuring Akwa United players that the stadium will avail them of training in both natural and synthetic football pitches.

‘’The Commissioner of Youths and Sports is owing me Eket Stadium so that you can train in both the natural and synthetic in case you go to play outside you can be familiar with both and he has promised me that by end of January, 2022 we will commission Eket and all of you will be there to play’’.

The President of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Mr. Amaju Pinnick, lauded Governor Udom Emmanuel’s efforts in sports development in the State and also described the governor as a leader with a difference remarking that Ibom Air, the State Airline has been a paradigm shift for excellence.

The Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Mr. Monday Uko, thanked God for victory for the team, he also thanked Governor Emmanuel for supporting the team and giving him the opportunity to serve.

He also appreciated the Chairman of the team, Elder Paul Bassey for his selfless service, which he noted has been the reason for the success of the team, extending his gratitude to Akwa United players.

The Chairman of Akwa United Football Club, Elder Paul Bassey, expressed gratitude to God for the grace to emerge as champions in the Nations League, and thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel, whom he described as a man with the Midas touch who posterity will credit in the pages of achievements.

The chairman also lauded the governor’s unrelenting efforts to fund the development potentials of youths which has encouraged the explosion of talents in the State.
Akwa United played 38 matches, won 19 matches, 14 draws and lost 5 matches.

Highlights of the event was the official presentation of the trophy by Commissioner of Youths and Sports, Mr. Monday Uko to Governor Udom Emmanuel.

Due to activities of smugglers, pirates and other criminal elements on its waterways, Nigeria loses huge revenue estimated at $2 Billion annually, contributing to the high cost of doing business in the country.

To this end, a bill to increase security presence and ensure the safety of marine activities in the Nigerian waterways has passed through second reading at the Senate.

Titled, a bill for an act to establish the Nigerian Coast Guard and other related matters, it is sponsored by the Senator representing Akwa Ibom South Senatorial district, Senator Akon Eyakenyi.

Leading debate on the bill, Senator Eyakenyi argued that there was urgent need for improved maritime security in Nigeria's water ways, especially given the fact that the country is strategically situated at the Gulf of Guinea with the busiest maritime zone in the coast of West Africa.

She submitted that since the coast remains the economic hub of Africa with Nigeria as the apex destination for business, there was need for the establishment of a specialized security outfit to protect and secure Nigeria's maritime assets and coastal waters.

Senator Eyakenyi maintained that, “Nigeria’s economy has been negatively impacted by threats to maritime security which are chiefly; Piracy, Armed banditry and Smuggling".

The increased insecurity on the Gulf of Guinea, the senator insisted, “has hampered the free flow of goods and distorted trade which in turn has adversely affected our economy”, with the Gulf of Guinea now categorized as the most dangerous waters in the world with the highest reported incidents of piracy and armed banditry.

Senator Eyakenyi, herself an indigene of a coastal community, Oron, in Akwa Ibom State, narrated that, “Nigeria’s coastal waters is a hotbed for pirates and armed bandits’ activities with extortion, stealing goods, snatching of traders boats, rape and kidnapping in the creeks being the order of the day.”

She explained that the intended specialized maritime security force in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy and other relevant security agencies ensure enforcement of laws and regulations on Nigeria’s coastal and internal waters as provided for under the Suppression of Piracy and Maritime Offences Act.

The coast guards are also to ensure prevention of piracy, banditry, detection of crime, preservation of life and properties on Nigeria’s Coastal and maritime zone, rescuing of cargo and vessels in the event of marine accident and other natural calamity; carrying out investigations into the cause of the marine accident; among others.

Supporting the bill, the Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial district, Smart Adeyemi observed that Nigeria needs coast guards now more than ever, given the current global challenges.

He also noted that the establishment of a coast guard for the Nigeria waterways would help other existing security agencies and while also creating job opportunities.

Also supporting the bill, was the Senator representing Edo South Senatorial district, Matthew Urhoghide who enthused that, “the Gulf of Guinea has become increasingly unsafe for those who carry out maritime activities, particularly those that are doing shipping business.

“Because of the absence of a proper force to ensure security in this zone, private companies have taken over provision of security in the zone.

We need coastguards just like we have in other countries like the United States of America, NIMASA alone cannot provide the security that we need,” Senator Urhoghide added.

The Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, Comrade Essien Ndueso, has advised students to stay away from activities that would hinder their academic excellence.

He has warned that the government of Mr Udom Emmanuel has declared zero tolerance on cultism and other violent activities and would not spare any student found engaging in such activities.

He stated these while receiving an award of excellence from the Eket Students Association , Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic chapter.

The event which took place at the Government house press center, Uyo had other members of the Research and Documentation team in attendance.

"Students should adopt three important virtues of the present Governor Udom Emmanuel's Administration; Creativity, Hardwork and Fear of God as it would make them go a long way and excel in their doings." He added.

Ndueso charged the Students to emulate the virtues of Governor Emmanuel, especially the ' Dakkada' entrepreneurship ideology of this administration.

He further said that as Akwa Ibom students, everyone is entitled to greatness and must all work towards actualizing it.

The aide to the Governor explained that his reason for aligning with the Association is because, aside being an Eket indigene, he has never heard negative report that could bring down the dignity and prestige of the Eket people.

Mr Ndueso expressed gratitude to the Association and urged them to continue being great brand ambassadors of Eket Local Government.

He went ahead to encourage them to study hard in other to be found worthy in character and in learning.

Presenting the award , the president of the Association,Miss Edoho Idara Archibong lauded Mr Ndueso for his exemplary and outstanding leadership as well as his support in their just concluded Cultural day which took place earlier in November.

"We selected you in recognition of your outstanding exemplary leadership role and inspiration contributions to Eket Students Association and humanity", she said, adding that his presence in their inauguration which took place some months ago was a thing of joy to not just her but the entire Association.

In a separate remark, the chief of staff to the president, Miss Esther Dick, appreciated the Governor's aide for accepting the award and promised that they will do their best in their academics.

With the charge on contractors to ensure they maximize the gains of the dry season and complete all road projects at their disposal, Akwa Ibom is now a beehive of activities, becoming one huge construction site. Before now, radio stations in the State used to be buzzing with complaints, genuine ones of course, of poor roads within Oron metropolis. A tale of neglect and despair.

The story of Oron Federal Constituency has changed with the deliberate policy of the Governor Udom Emmanuel led Government to reinvent the good old days of Oro nation. The erosion that cut off the main expressway into the area, Oron Road, has been arrested and the road reclaimed.

A visit to the coastal area today, could show that while most projects have been completed, some others are at various stages of completion. The projects completed are the emergency works on the completion of urban roads, with over ten roads completed and inaugurated by Governor Udom Emmanuel. The roads include, Anwana Esin Road, Efiat Lane, Mainland Avenue, Bassey Lane, Post Office Road, Convent – Ebo Street, Asbestonit/Customs Road, Oron Market Road, Murtala Road and Oron Express road-a distance of 600 meters from the Stadium road junction to Isangedighi Street junction, all handled by Chinese firm, Wizchino Engineering Limited.

It is worthy of note that the ongoing at the 14.5kilometer Airport – Okopedi Road, linking Nsit Atai with Okobo on a dual thoroughfare was re-awarded in June 2019 to DPL Construction Company, Lagos and is at 28% progress. Still in Okobo, a Six kilometer road to the major Atabong Market, the Nung Atai – Ebighi Eta – Atabong Market Road is 30% completion and work is intensifying on the project, handled by Dubai Construction Nigeria Limited.
Other roads in the area are the 16.5km Udung Uko Secretariat Road, linking Ulliong Edikor – Uduetta Road with Spur to connect Udung Uko, Oron and Mbo local government areas. The road is at 82% completion and is handled by EVOMEC Global Services. And for those who may have forgotten, the government has reawarded the 19km Etebi – Enwang Road project to Amitec Construction and Development Limited, and work has reached 78 percent completion.
Before you dispute the facts, please find time to visit the location of these projects, I took time to visit all the locations.

...Essien Ndueso, Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, wrote.

#COMPLETION AGENDA

Governor Udom Emmanuel Saturday, joined several other eminent Nigerians to mourn the death of yet another high ranking Nigerian Air force officer of Akwa Ibom origin, Late Air Vice Marshal Mfon Udo Ekpoh whose remains were nterred.

Speaking at the funeral service in honour of the deceased two-star General, at the Ibom Hall Arena, Uyo, Governor Emmanuel described as saddening, the grave losses of her illustrious citizens in the Nigerian Air Force in quick succession.

"It's a difficult moment for me. ...I stand to be corrected, the number of Air force Generals we've lost this year alone as a state, I think we need prayers as a state and I don't know if, as at today, I still have a single 2-Star General in the Air Force any longer as we've lost AVM Ekpoh, someone that was promoted just a year ago".

"We are gathered here, united in pain, grief-stricken, because lying before us this afternoon, are the remains of a patriotic Nigerian, a strategic ambassador of our dear State, a man imbued and illuminated by the fiery passion to serve God and uplift the ideals of our common humanity" the governor further declared.

He thanked God for the fortitude granted the family to carry on through the period and thanked the leadership of the Nigerian military and the Redeemed Christian Church for honouring the bereaved family and the state.

He describe the deceased as a bridge-builder, an epitome of humility, who saw and cultivated the best of the human condition.

Governor Emmanuel lauded the late Ekpoh's kindredship and described him as an epitome of peace, despite being trained for war, a man with a genuine heart, whose words were his bond and a lover of people who could take any opportunity to advance the human condition.

He maintained that the memories of what he did in his short lifetime will always remain.

"As he goes home to be with the Lord today, we will continue to celebrate and remember those great years of impact, of his wonderful and infectious smile, of his boundless optimism, his brotherhood and kindredship and above all, of his love for God", he added.

The various components of the Nigerian Armed Forces as well as graduands the 36 regular course, the community and beneficiaries of his goodwill also paid glowing tributes to the fallen hero.

Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Isiaka Amao, represented by the Air Force Chief of Administration, AVM Idris Mohammad, recalling Ekpoh's gallantry and commitment to service since he joined the Force in 1984, described the death as a great loss, affirming his peaceful disposition and cordial relationship across all ranks.

Pastor Belemina Obunge of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, in a sermon tagged, "Well Done", culled from II Timothy 4:6-8 said for every opportunity one has in life, there is an expectation, hence every one should strive to use whatever life avails them with to make exploits that will count for them before God, bearing in mind that life is short and all that will matter after death will be God's commendation.

Women of Eket and Ikot Ekpene Senatorial districts have reaffirmed their resolve to support Governor Udom Emmanuel's completion agenda and to ensure that they peace in the state is sustained beyond 2023.

They restated their resolve, Thursday when the Director of Women Affairs, Maintain Peace Movement, MPM, Senator Dr. Akon Eyakenyi led other officials of the directorate on a sensitization tour of the two senatorial districts.

Welcoming the guests at the two Senatorial District, Hon. Mrs. Inibehe Silas, President Ikot Senatorial District Women Forum and Hon. Mrs. Idara Ephraim, President Eket Senatorial Women Forum, said they were excited with the impactful leadership qualities of the Governor and pledged to move in Governor Udom Emmanuel's direction.

The State Co-ordinator of MPM Women Wing, Rt. Hon. Alice Ekpenyong, who doubles as the SSA to the Governor said that Governor Emmanuel has proven to be gender friendly, hence the women will stand by the Governor come rain come shine.

She advised the women against politics of native oaths as anyone that does that will be publicly embarrassed by God.

Speaking on behalf of the State Women Leaders of PDP, the State Woman Leader, Deaconess Mmeme Akpabio said that Women faithful of Peoples Democratic Party are fully in sync with the Governor's completion and succession agenda, and are ready to go the direction of the Governor.

Dean of Commissioners and Commissioner for Agriculture in the State, Dr. Glory Edet said they will do all within their reach to ensure the success of the Governor's succession plan.

Chairman of Urue-Ofong Oruko, Mrs. Precious Selong, pledged on behalf of Female Local Government Chairmen in the State to ensure that the Governor's message is taken to the nooks and crannies of their local government areas. Mrs. Bright Archibong, wife of the Hon. Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, on her part, promised unwavering support of Eket Federal Constituency Women to Mr Udom Emmanuel and Wife.

Leading stakeholders of the women wing of MPM to the two districts, Sen. Akon Eyakenyi expressed satisfaction on the large turn out of Women in the two Senatorial District visited.

She said MPM Team was at the District first to appreciate the Women for their commitment, prayers and support to the administration of Mr Udom Emmanuel and also to intimate them on the programmes of Governor Udom Emmanuel, most especially the completion agenda, and rallied support from the women to the success of the adminstration.

The Senator used the opportunity to laud the Governor for His developmental plans for Akwa Ibom State and called on the women not to be deceived by anyone as 2023 draws closer.

She emphasized on the need for the Women to go out in numbers to register with the PDP E- registration and INEC registration.

The MPM Woman Leader specifically emphasized on the need for the women in their different positions of Leadership in MPM to work in unison with the PDP women leaders of different position as MPM belongs to the Party.

Other stakeholders in attendance include, Mrs. Idongesit Etiebet, Commissioner for Education, Enobong Mbobo, Commissioner Rural Development, Mr/Mrs. Unyime Etim, Chairman Ikot Ekpene local government area, Prof. Maria Ikorok, Chief Mrs. Janet Amba, Mrs. Udo Kirian, Dr. Mrs. Mercy Ita Mercy Effiong, Obonganwan Mandu Abia , Female Vice Chairmen, Female Secretaries , Female Supervisors , Female Counsellors and other stakeholders in the two Senatorial Districts.

…As Completion Agenda Exposition Campaign Lightens Eket, Ibeno Schools


The Principals of Government Secondary School Afaha Eket and that of Grammar Secondary School Ibeno, all in Akwa Ibom State have commended Governor Udom Emmanuel for improving the working condition of teachers in public schools across the state and for initiating programmes that impact learning for the students.


The encomiums were poured on Governor Emmanuel when the ‘completion agenda exposition campaign’, a programme carried out by the office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on project monitoring, Mrs Josephine Bassey, stormed schools in Eket and Ibeno Local Government Areas to take the students on an excursion to key infrastructures and industries in the state.

Speaking with the team, the Principal General of Government Secondary School, Afaha Eket, Mr Eyoh Etim Aweh applauded Governor Udom Emmanuel placing value on teachers, school principals and the teaching profession in general. He said “this programme is a commendable programme, the government by this programme is catching them young when they have not yet decided. When you take them out, what they will see will help them make better decisions for their future. Now that industries are springing up in Akwa Ibom State, when they go, what they will see will inspire them, it is a very nice programme”.

Asked about the education sector in the state, especially the welfare and morale of teachers, Mr Eyoh said “it is well. I have not seen a government like this before. Our governor has been so pragmatic he has done well. For example, as a principal that I am on grade level seventeen, but before I have seen principals that retired in grade-level twelve, they never experienced level fourteen, but here am I in level seventeen. And I know that the Governor is even appointing principals as permanent Secretaries, something that has never happened before. Governor has also given us a special salary. Teachers now earn more than other civil servants in the state. Most states don’t enjoy what we are enjoying in Akwa Ibom State, and I pass a vote of confidence on the Governor”.

As early as 7am, 30 students of Junior Secondary one to three, fifteen students each from Secondary School Afaha Eket and Secondary Grammar School Ibeno were already waiting with excitement at their respective schools for the arrival of the Governor’s Aide and her entourage. The students, selected based on their good performance in past examinations shouted for joy as the team arrived, and after brief profiling and briefing by the Governor's Aide, the team made their way to Kings Floor Mill in Onna Local Government Area.

At the Floor Mill, the students were received by the Head, Human Resources, Mr Tope Akerodolu who took time to charge the students to take their studies seriously so that they can work in the best industries in the world. The HR thereafter handed over the students to the Acting Production Manager, Mr James Alaribe who took the children on a tour of the expansive facility and machines used for the production of flour. For over an hour, the students were virtually thought how to produce flour, the tour guard maximized the interactive style of teaching, they were also exposed to machines, safety procedures in workplace and career paths to work in any industry.

In their testimonies and reaction to the exposition, the teachers of the benefitting schools applauded the State Government for undertaking such a nice programme, Mrs. Ikakke Smith, a biology teacher at Secondary School Afaha Eket said “ I am very grateful to the Government for taking this initiative to expose the students to such excursion, it does not easily happen in public schools and as you have seen this programme will inspire the students to want to maintain their first position in class so that they can keep on benefitting from such opportunities, while other students who witnessed the first position takers being given branded books and other materials and driven in that fine bus out for excursion will feel challenged to aspire to work hard”.

Miss. Elfrida Uzono a teacher in Afaha Eket also applauded the programme, for her “I really cherish the experience of seeing that it is true that those industries actually exist in Akwa Ibom State because many people do not believe. If I am this excited to visit that place I am sure that my students have been inspired to aspire to greatness in life. I really thank the State Government for this”.

Mr. Victor James Ufon, an SS3 physics teacher of Secondary Grammar school in Ibeno was full of joy. He said “people used to say that there is no flour mill in Akwa Ibom State I have gone and I have seen that there is one and our youths are working there. As for my students, they have learnt a lot and most of them will aspire to work in places like that. I thank the SA to the Governor for organizing such a trip, and I thank God for safety. We need more of such excursion for our students”.

Most of the students who spoke with the team expressed their excitement and were full of hope and inspiration about their future. They pledged to work hard in order to earn a place in top industries like the Flour Mill.

Governor Udom Emmanuel wants foreign companies to set up their production plants in Akwa Ibom State to localise the production of medical consumables.

Governor Emmanuel made the advocacy while receiving a donation of medical consumables to the state government by a Japanese based organisation, Saraya Japan in collaboration with Junior Chambers International, JCI Nigeria, in support of its effort to contain the Coronavirus pandemic.

The items included over three hundred and three thousand units of hand sanitizers, worth over two hundred and eighty million naira (N280m), for onward distribution to the citizens of the state.

Receiving the items at Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo, today the governor thanked the organization for the donation, reaffirming his administration's readiness for greater partnership with Saraya-Japan and JCI.

He said his government was ready to expedite all necessary processes for acquisition of land and building of factory for production in the state.

Speaking on the potential threat of the emerging "Omicron" wave of the Coronavirus, the governor said while the state may not embark on another lockdown, it was pertinent for everyone to observe basic protective procedures against the virus and ensure a safe Yuletide.

He directed the commissioner for health, Prof Augustine Umoh to ensure the distribution of the hand sanitizers to all government hospitals and public places across the state.

Speaking earlier at the event, the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Augustine Umoh, expressed confidence that with the huge investments made so far by the Governor Emmanuel led administration in the health sector, the state is poised to contain the threatening new outbreak, as it were in the earlier waves.

He appealed to Akwa Ibom people and residents alike to be alive to their responsibilities by taking precaution while the state government also plays its part.

The President of Saraya Japan, Dr. Saraya Yusuke, who was represented by Pascal Dike, said the company has been into health and hygiene products since 1960s in Japan but now has presence in 25 countries across the globe, adding that the gesture was in line with the willingness of the company to support government effort against the pandemic as well as establish presence in Nigeria.

The President of JCI Nigeria, Abiola Olorunnisola, also affirm their readiness to partner Akwa Ibom state government in the health sector.

08106308118 based in Lagos. Male

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.