HOW SENATOR BOB DISPLAYED STATESMANSHIP BY DECLARING SUPPORT FOR UMO ENO AT OWN EXPENSE

Hopes for the governorship ambition of the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Lands, Pastor Umo Eno, has continue to gather momentum as a major challenger in the race for the 2023 gubernatorial election in Akwa Ibom State, Senator Effiong Bob continues to explain why he voluntarily dropped his ambition.

The Fifth and Sixth National Assembly Senator and political leader of Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, Senator Bob, showed statesmanship, patriotism and sincere believe in the Akwa Ibom project, when he accompanied stakeholders across the state, to consult incumbent Governor Udom Emmanuel at the Governor's Lodge, Government House, Uyo and drum support for Pastor Eno.

"But this is God's project. I saw what transpired yesterday when Pastor Umo Eno was presented. When you see God's hand in a project, one has to be careful", he said.

He therefore declared his total commitment to the vanguard of the Umo Eno governorship project and to be visibly involved in all consultations and campaigns.

Senator Effiong Bob won the hearts of the Governor and stakeholders present, when he told everyone present that his withdrawal from the contest to support Umo Eno, was also informed by his resolve to give Governor Emmanuel his utmost support throughout his administration.
This, he affirmed, he has done since 2015 and remains committed to supporting him to the actualisation of his succession plan.

The Senator said he was at the visit in multiple capacity: as a major stakeholder in the state, as the political leader of Nsit Ubium, where Umo Eno hails from, and as a co-aspirant.

Senator Bob however charged Eno to expect contrary forces and be determined to weather storms that may come to challenge his aspiration.

The incumbent governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, in his reaction, expressed delight with the decision of Senator Bob to throw in the towel, maintaining that it was a demonstration of his commitment to the ideals he has always stood for, and described him as a respectable statesman.

In his words, "If you used to have 99% of my respect, today you have earned 101%. You've shown the kind of fatherly, sportsmanlike, Christian-like disposition that I probably must have underated, but you've displayed it in real action and I'm moved".

Furthermore, Governor Emmanuel said himself and Senator Bob belong to the very few on earth who do not care about themselves but about stewardship and the people, but extolled the Senator as surpassing expectations.

"I used to think that I have a very clear and open heart, but when you see people taking action that beats your own, you cannot but acknowledge it and I really want to appreciate you for that", Mr Emmanuel added.

Governor Emmanuel described the composition of the campaign team as formidable and expressed confidence in their capacity to deliver on the project.

He reassured that the Umo Eno project was divine and that God would go with them all the way, and tasked them to strengthen the morale of the aspirant, reaffirming Umo Eno as an embodiment of godliness and good character and one who has shown great capacity to lead the state.

Director General of the Umo Eno governorship campaign, Ambassador Assam Assam, SAN, thanked Governor Emmanuel for providing the good leadership for the state and instituting peace within the period of his administration and assured that Umo Eno will sustain the legacies

The DG prayed for his blessings and support of the incumbent governor for the Umo Eno project, while promising to leave no stone unturned in ensuring delivery.

The National Coordinator of Maintain Peace Movement, Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem, described Umo Eno as a product without a dent and easy to market, adding that the calmness across the state since the declaration of Umo Eno as preferred successor to Governor Emmanuel was an indicative of his wide acceptability.

Also speaking with government house correspondents

2022 NUGA GAMES: GOV EMMANUEL RECEIVES UNILAG MGT, COMMITS TO SPORTS DEVELOPMENT

Governor Udom Emmanuel has reiterated his commitment towards development of young talents in sports to fly the colours of Nigeria in major competitions in the World.

Governor Emmanuel stated this on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from University of Lagos led by its Vice- Chancellor, Prof Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, at Government House, Uyo


The Governor who is also an alumnus of University of Lagos, commended the University for hosting the NUGA games and for extending the invitation for him to attend the 26th edition of the Nigerian University Games (NUGA) which holds in Lagos from March 16 to 27, 2022.


The Chief Executive recalled that NUGA games over the years has been a platform where young talents were spotted in various sports, commending Universities for upholding to the initiative, and pledged to further encourage sports development and talent-hunt in the state.

"You have invited us for the opening ceremony on 16th of March this year, we will try. You know from our own sports council, we have produced a whole lot of stars for Nigeria, the present holder of 200m Commonwealth games comes from Akwa Ibom and also our Ekong who plays for the Super Eagles.

In terms of sports development in this country, I think we have contributed seriously. We have a vision based on the facilities we are putting on ground and the investment we are making, we will get to a time where you have more than 50% of talents in sports from Akwa Ibom State".


Speaking earlier, the Vice- Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, said the purpose of the visit was to invite Governor Emmanuel, an alumnus of the University to the NUGA GAMES 2022 and also present the torch of unity to him ahead of the games

Prof. Ogundipe, commended the Governor for transforming the state and described him as a worthy ambassador of the Institution.

The highpoint of the event was the presentation of the torch of unity for the 2022 NUGA to the Governor by the delegation.

About 10,000 athletes from 80 universities in the country will take part in the 26th edition of the National University Games.

2023: PASTOR UMO ENO GETS FORMAL BACKING FROM GOV EMMANUEL
...AS SEN BOB STEPS DOWN, PLEDGES SUPPORT TO KINSMAN'S ASPIRATION

Governor Udom Emmanuel has expressed profound confidence in the character, disposition and capacity of Pastor Umo Eno to lead Akwa Ibom State, and has reaffirmed support for his candidacy in the 2023 gubernatorial elections in the State.

Similarly, a Governorship aspirant and political heavyweight from Nsit Ubium, Senator Effiong Bob, has announced that he has withdrawn from the race, and would henceforth work to actualise the aspiration of his kinsman, Pastor Umo Eno, who he believes has the backing of God.

Governor Emmanuel, accompanied by his wife, Dr (Mrs) Martha Udom Emmanuel, received the delegation of leaders and stakeholders representing the various sections and strata of the state, who were at the Governor's Lodge, Government House, Uyo to present the 2023 governorship hopeful and seek his blessings to commence consultations.

Governor Emmanuel described Pastor Umo Eno as an embodiment of godliness and good character and one who has shown great capacity in various levels of leadership in the state.

He noted also that Senator Bob's decision to step down for his brother was a display of maturity and statesmanship, adding that his respect for Effiong Bob has increased.

Mr Emmanuel was of the opinion that while some people where meant to be kings, there were others who where destined to be fathers of the king, adding that the Senator Bob is the father of the favoured gubernatorial hopeful.

He noted the composition of the campaign canvassers and extolled their capacity to deliver on the impending task, stating that such a band would not only ensure victory but strengthen the morale of a leader.

The governor appealed to those who may still be nursing mixed feelings about supporting the chosen successor to free their minds, assuring that God was involved in the decision as Akwa Ibom was in the heart of God.

Governor Emmanuel said accepting Pastor Eno was in the interest of the state as he was not interested in playing any godfatherism role or governing through a surrogate.

"The day I leave office, I leave. I don't want even one minute more through a successor. This government has no godfather. For me, God is the father of everyone. All I want is the welfare of the citizens of Akwa Ibom", he added, tasking the entire team to be courageous and continuously stand by the governorship hopeful and subsequently own up the government as a collective responsibility.

Expressing regrets over the ordeals of sudden behavioural changes by supposed political allies, the Governor thanked God for leading him not to follow mere sentiments, which would have amounted to grave mistakes.

"These, however, were necessary to reveal that what really defined some relationships were money, position and power, thus tempering with any of those redefined the relationships", he added.

Governor Emmanuel encouraged Umo Eno to be strong, courageous and confident in God's support and admonished him to avoid harbouring any form of anger against anyone, including those who sponsor hate media messages against him on the media, reassuring that with God's hand in the project, victory was sure.

"Trust me, I personally do not harbour any anger against anyone. If I do, I wouldn't have the space in my heart to conceive development and ideas to move the state forward."

Speaking earlier when presenting the candidate to the Governor, the Director General of the Umo Eno Governorship Campaign, Ambassador Assam Assam, SAN, thanked Governor Emmanuel for providing good leadership for the state over time and his tact in managing the situations that culminated into the emergence of the preferred candidate.

The DG made presentations of traditional gift items to the governor, as he presented Pastor Umo Eno to the incumbent governor and prayed for his blessings and support, while promising to leave no stone unturned in ensuring success

I MEAN WELL FOR THE STATE: GOV EMMANUEL SPEAKS ON WHY HE PICKED UMO ENO AS HIS SUCCESSOR

Fresh from presenting his Commissioner for Lands and Water Resources, Pastor Umo Eno as his preferred Successor, Governor Udom Emmanuel, says his decision was based on the fact that he means well for the State.

The Governor disclosed this while fielding questions from a group of journalists earlier in the day and later at the commissioning of Spectrum Television, the State’s first privately owned cable television station, owned and operated by TAF Media Group, on why he settled for the Lands and Water Resources Commissioner.

“Let me say this emphatically, I mean well for this State, that is why I waited for God to show me the man who would continue with the pace of developmental strides we have started in the last six plus years and then move the needle even further.

"Pastor Umo Eno is a highly respected person; he has enormous capacity, is an epitome of humility, and is blessed with the common touch, a compelling story and is God- fearing.

"He is a successful entrepreneur who has employed our people, lifted thousands from poverty to prosperity.

"He will be coming to the office of Governor with an economic blueprint that will further guarantee employment, development, and economic prosperity for our people.

"He is a man of peace and will ensure that the peace and security of life we have enjoyed in the last six plus years will be maintained.
His life story resonates with the story of most ordinary Akwa Ibom people.

"He came from the Police barracks, where, as he said during his Thanksgiving Service last year, life was dreary and hope seemed a distant ingredient.

Through hard work, he summoned hope and overcame his early difficulties and ended up as one the biggest employers of labour in our State.

His story is a testament to our Dakkada philosophy; one that will inspire and motivate our youths.

The Governor stated that he never looked for a surrogate to do a third term but rather was looking for a man of exceptional capacity, of peace and humility and enjoined all peace-loving and progress-minded Akwa Ibomites to rally round and support God’s choice.

“I will never use God’s name in vain” the Governor stated at an interview at the Spectrum Television Studio with host, Ekaete Afia.

THE MAN: PASTOR UMO ENO

Pastor Umo Eno is Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Lands And Water Resources with a Master Degree in Political Science from the University of Uyo and currently on his Ph.D in Public Administration.

He is an alumnus of Pan African University’s Lagos Business School with 35 years of experience in banking, marketing, management and hospitality and a Fellow, Nigerian Catering and Hotel Institute.

Pastor Eno is the founder of Royalty Hotels and Recreation Limited, Eket, a group with diversified interest in beverages, industrial catering, apartments and coffee shop; creating direct employment for people across the country.

He is a pastor at All Nations Christian Ministry International, Eket, a nondenominational Church where he oversees the Bridge of Hope, an arm of the Ministry that offers free medical services to host community.

As one who is passionate about raising young entrepreneurs, he set up "The Gathering" a nonprofit making initiative that convenes IGNITE; a global platform for knowledge-based empowerment, training and entrepreneurial skills development of youths for entrepreneurship and self sufficiency.

Pastor Eno is the chairman, BOT, Akwa Ibom Business Community among other appointments including the Chairman, Akwa Ibom Hotels and Tourism Board from 2004 to 2007.

He is a two Star Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary Club of Eket, District 9140 and has received several awards for his public spirited life, among them the National Productivity Award, Icon of Hope Award by The Apostolic Church, Nigeria; Special Recognition Award by the Nigeria Medical Association, Akwa Ibom State.

In October 1, 2019 he resigned as Chief Executive Officer of Royalty Group with six subsidiaries, having put in place a seamless succession plan, to accept an appointment with the State Government as Executive Director, Agricultural Investment, AKICORP.

Eno, a good social mixer who believes in hard work, integrity and strong character, is the author of "Wealth Creation, God’s Way, Break Forth, Exercising Your Dominion Mandate, Dream Again" "The Legacy of a Father and True Friendship."

© Harrison Essien
January 2022

2023: STAKEHOLDERS NOMINATE REV UMO ENOH AS GOV EMMANUEL'S SUCCESSOR

Critical stakeholders in Akwa Ibom State have adopted the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Lands and Water Resources, Rev Umo Bassey Eno as their preferred choice for the Hilltop Mansion come 2023.

At a well attended meeting presided over by Governor Emmanuel at the Government House in Uyo, a former Governor of the State, Arch. Victor Attah presented Pastor Umo Enoh to the forum as a humble and sincere man with capacity to lead the state.

According to an insider, the nomination of Pastor Eno attracted a loud spontaneous applause from all who where present, showing strong affirmation of the nomination.

The support further heightened by the Oku Ibom Ibibio and Paramount Ruler of Nsit Ubium, Ntenyin (Dr.) Solomon Etuk who spoke as the Chairman of State Council of Chiefs, glowingly in support of the revered Clergy.

The Stakeholders included former deputy Governor Etim Okpoyo, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, Senator Emmanuel Ibokessien, Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke, Chief Nduese Essien, Senator Effiong Bob, Senator Alloy Etok, among others

Prayers to dedicate the nominee to God were offered by some fathers of faith led by Dr. Sunday Mbang and Rev Uma Ukpai.

They prayed against any force that may attempt to derail the decision of God for the people of Akwa Ibom State.

Rev Eno in an emotion ladened voice, is said to have appreciated the stakeholders for nominating him, saying he was humbled to be so recognised.

Pastor Eno, until his appointment into the State Executive Council, was Chief Executive Officer of Royalty Hotels, the first local Akwa Ibom company to take on large industrial catering offshore.

SENATE PRESIDENT EULOGIZES GOV EMMANUEL, INAUGURATES SENATOR ALBERT'S CONSTITUENCY PROJECTS

Nigeria's Senate President Ahmad Lawan has again commended Governor Udom Emmanuel’s sterling leadership qualities which has brought massive developments in Akwa Ibom State.


The Senate President, spoke when he joined Governor Emmanuel and other dignitaries on Saturday to inaugurate a 1.3km Ifa Ikot Akpan Road, Etoi, and a Multipurpose Recreational Complex, initiated and completed by Senator Bassey Albert in Uyo.


Senator Lawan said despite belonging to different political platforms, he was happy to attest to the good leadership attributes of the state Governor.

"Governor Udom Emmanuel has placed the interest of the nation as a top priority, and he is a partner of development in the country."

The Senate President described the Multi-purpose Recreational Complex as a project with dual capacity that will provide physical fitness and mental development, and called on the people of the state to take advantage of it numerous advantages.

Senator Lawan also extolled the leadership qualities of Senator Bassey Albert as a pace setter, a man of vision and a patriotic leader who puts the interest of his constituents first.

He recalled a bill co-sponsored by Senator Bassey Albert to amend the deep offshore and Inland Basin Production Sharing Contract which became a law, adding that his performance in the senate demonstrates exemplary attributes of a passionate leader.

"I am pleased to be here, for me this is homecoming. We are here to thank God for what our colleague Senator Bassey Albert Akpan has achieved here for the people of his senatorial district.

"This multipurpose complex is not only for sports, but for education and learning as well, what we have here is both physical fitness and mental development.

"I want to add that the people of this senatorial district and the State should take advantage of it.

“For us in the senate it is our constituency first, because you voted for us, and you voted for Sen. Bassey Albert and I am so proud of him”.


Governor Udom Emmanuel in his remarks joined Senator Bassey Albert in thanking God for making the projects executed by Senator Bassey Albert come to fruition to the benefit of Akwa Ibom people, adding that the multipurpose Recreational Complex will serve as an alternative for tourists to relax in the state.

The governor who described the project as befitting the purpose prayed God for peace, tranquility and development and urged the people to take advantage of the project and also safeguard it for posterity.

“I want to thank God for the multipurpose recreational complex has been dedicated to God and I want to join my voice in saying that this place shall be for peace, tranquility and development of our people’’.

The Senator Representing Akwa Ibom North-East, Senator Bassey Albert, in his thanksgiving and appreciation to God reflected on God’s mercies upon his life, stating that he is a man God has shown mercy throughout his life.

Senator Albert stated that the project was designed to meet the needs of the people in the state, adding that 30 pioneer students will be presented certificates from the ICT center, among others benefits to be derived from the multi-purpose complex.

‘’There is nothing as good as thanking God in the presence of the congregation of believers, to thank the only God that has been there for you from the beginning and most especially if you find a man that God has helped.

"I am one man that God has helped. Where you are going to commission today seats on 3-hectares of land with a standard football field, ICT center to drill people on digital proficiency and we will present certificates to first 30 graduands who benefited from the International Certified Training’’, the Senator noted.

GOV EMMANUEL WANTS FORMER ASPIRANTS TO SUPPORT EKITI PDP FLAGBEARER

Aspirants in the just concluded gubernatorial primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State have been admonished to marry their differences and work together for the victory of the party in the state.

Akwa Ibom State Governor and head of the 5-man PDP primary election committee in Ekiti State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, gave the admonition while fielding questions with Government House correspondents at the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, upon his return from the assignment.

He thanked the National Chairman and the National Working Committee of PDP for an opportunity to serve the party, describing it as a privilege he cannot take for granted.

Expressing satisfaction with the integrity and conduct of the primary election, Governor Emmanuel described the exercise as transparent, fair and credible.

He called on all participants in the contest to acknowledge the supremacy of the party and pull forces together to grab victory in the impending general election as one party.

"I think personally, I'm satisfied that the process was credible and I also believe almost 100% of the people that watched it will give us credit that it was a very credible, transparent, free and fair election. My advice is, let all of them go back and work together.

"We have only one seat and only one person can occupy that seat. If after all what the party did at the NWC to accommodate all aspirants, the people then spoke and said this is the person we want to bear the flag of the party, I think all others should just join hands and work together.

"Party is supreme, let the party win then they can all sit down and talk".

Mr. Emmanuel described as false and speculative, insinuations of unfair treatment and disenfranchisement of some aspirants, maintaining that the process was void of malpractices and created no room for expression of ill behaviours that would have given grounds to discredit the exercise.

According to him, such insinuations were indications of pre-perceived defeat. He maintained that the committee had an authentic list from the National Working Committee which it followed religiously, stressing that no single person voted wfen he was not accredited and that there was none accredited that was not allowed to vote.

"I've heard a whole lot; how some aspirants even before the process started, went to the press.

"I think they knew the outcome before we went into the election.

"Some of them came to make trouble but by the time they saw that there was no room for such trouble they knew there's no way they could have made it", Emmanuel stated.

"All the aspirants gave us a very excellent mark for all the processes, from accreditation to voting, to sorting, to counting, even to declaration of result. Even after that we gave them opportunity to speak of they were satisfied. We also had to make sure one of the international TV stations beamed it live so everybody could see the processes" he added.

The Akwa Ibom Governor therefore cautioned the public to be cautious of politicians who promote violence as means to grab power and sued for peaceful politicking towards the 2023 polls.

"As we go into 2023, people will give peace a chance. If you want to serve the people, you can't serve the people with a gun. Whoever carries a gun to serve is not going to serve the people but himself.

"If you want to serve the people and you don't want peace, there is an undertone we don't know. I think we need to unravel that and question your real intensions."

The Ekiti PDP Guber primaries which was keenly contested by twelve apirants had Hon. Bisi Kolawale emerging as winner with 671, edging out his immediate runner up, Segun Oni, who scored 330.

Bisi Kolawale is a former member of the National Assembly 2007-2011, and also served as Environment Commissioner in former Governor Ayo Fayose's administration.

BREKETE FAMILY MEDIA CREW ARRIVES AKWA IBOM TO ASSESS GOV EMMANUEL'S PROJECTS

It was Day One of the visit by the Brekete Family to Uyo. Brekete Family is a reality radio and television programme focused on human rights. It airs on radio and cable television, and streams online through social media platforms and Human Rights Radio 101.1 in Abuja. Their arrival in the state is on the heels of Governor Udom Emmanuel's recent three hours interview session on the breakfast family show on Friday, January 7,2022.

Led on the visit to Akwa Ibom by Mr Ehis Agbon, they maintained that they want to see for themselves the development strides of this administration as earlier highlighted on their programme by His Excellency, the state chief executive, Mr Udom Emmanuel. This is to ensure that their constituents, the ordinary citizens can be properly informed.

"Because e get some people where feel say all the things Governor been talk on our programme, na political talk where politicians de like talk. We wan see them with our eyes make we fit tell ordinary citizens of Nigeria say, the things the Akwa Ibom Governor talk for our programme, na so we take go see them for our cro-cro eyes."

Received and led on the projects tour by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Ekerete Udoh , the team yesterday saw the ongoing Maintenance Repairs and Overhaul facility, the taxiway and the ongoing new international terminal building, all at the Victor Attah International Airport, before proceeding to see the green house farm around the Airport gate.

Their last port of call yesterday was the Infectious Diseases Control Center and PCR Laboratory and the remodeled General Hospital at Ituk Mbang, Uruan.

The Permanent Secretary Engr Effiong Efiakedoho and management staff and consultants in the Ministry of Special Duties, as well as the Commissioner for Health, Prof Augustine Umoh and the Consultant in the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Emmanuel Akpan, were on hand to give more insights to the respective projects.



#CompletionAgenda
#GovUdomIsWorking

In Akwa Ibom State we have leaders with genuine Intentions to serve, Uyo lawmaker is an Angel in human form..

A'IBOM STATE LAWMAKER DOLES OUT PROJECT ALLOWANCE TO VARSITY FINAL YEAR STUDENTS..

The Member Representing Uyo State Constituency, Hon. Anietie Eka, on Thursday, doled out over half a million Naira, as project allowance to final year students from Uyo extraction.

At a brief presentation ceremony held at the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Complex, Uyo, the Lawmaker said the gesture was part of approaches by his office aimed at boosting educational development in the Constituency.

While urging the students to strive for excellence by making good use of the allowance, Hon. Eka opined that the gesture would go a long way in complementing Governor Udom Emmanuel's educational drive, explaining that other institutions shall be captured in subsequent editions of the programme.

"This final year project allowance is part of the programmes we have outlined to boost education in Uyo to support students.

"We are doing this to complement the Governor's educational policies and I'm sure this will encourage you to aim higher. We are looking at University of Uyo now, we will move to other institutions subsequently", he said.

The Assemblyman also urged the students to abstain from cultism, thuggery, examination malpractice, alcohol and other social vices capable of ruining their future.

"Let me congratulate you all for being selected for this gesture. I understand that times are hard, so part of why we're doing this is to assist your parents and sponsors.

"Please use it judiciously and abstain from cultism and anything that will thwart your future. We will continue to support you and other Uyo students from time to time", Hon. Eka added.

Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Inimfon Ekpenyong, a final year Law student, University of Uyo, from Etoi Clan, thanked Hon. Anietie Eka for his philanthropic gesture which she noted would assist them in tidying up their final year projects.

While praising the Uyo Representative on his various strides since assumption of office in 2019, the student appreciated the former Governor's Aide for placing priority on the welfare of his people, describing the project allowance as a great motivation and timely assistance.

Over 25 students drawn from the various clans in Uyo State Constituency were selected for the final year project allowance.

WAPI old students association elects new leadership

Sir Charles Udoh, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Environment and Solid Minerals, has emerged the pioneer president of West Africa Peoples’ Institute Calabar Old Student Association (WAPIOSA) Worldwide.

In a keenly contested election, Sir Charles Udoh was elected new President with other Exco members to run the affairs of the association from 2021 to 2024 .

The Chairman of the electoral committee Barr. Ekong Koofreh said it was the first time the association conducted a proper election where members were duly elected into executive positions.

In his acceptance note after the election, Sir Charles Udoh thanked members for earning their trust and confidence to lead the association.

He pledged, together with his EXCO members, to serve the interest of the association at all times.
 
‘”I am deeply honoured and grateful to have been voted as the President of WAPIOSA WORLDWIDE; I do not take it for granted.

" Thank you for the trust and confidence. I am humbled.I will not go further without a special thank you to Rev. Ubong Ph.D for being the glue that God used to bind us together.

"I am wholly committed to all of us building valuable lifelong relationships with one another.

"Let me say that while my campaign team worked tirelessly for my Presidency, I want to assure everyone that it is a presidency for the whole house. We are bound together, not only by the common denominator - WAPI, but by the passion to give back to our alma mater, the passion to hold one another’s hands up the ladder of life.

"I want to assure all the sets and groups that I will promote every action within my reach so that the WAPIOSA can play a central role in advancing towards the betterment of our alma mater."

He added that his immediate task will be to embark on fence mending mission by bring together all splinter groups and appealed to WAPIANS wherever they may be to bury hatchet

“I offer an open-door presidency and I will keep that promise. In addition, today I reiterate my commitment to acting as an impartial, objective and open facilitator. In addition to being a professional-in-politics, I am also a banker and a fine artist who started his career as a trainer and management consultant.

"As such, I am fully aware that no view is useful if we do not see, and no words have value if we do not listen. I will be ready to listen to all representatives and to work for them and with them."

Other members of the Exco includes: Mr, Godwin B. Edem-Vice President, Dr. Asuquo Ene-Secretary General, Mrs. Doris F. Ekpenyong-Assistant Secretary , Mrs. Felicity Obi-Treasurer, Pastor Ubong Thompson-Financial Secretary, Mrs. Ekpa Mensah-Welfare , Mr. Bassey Edim Otop-Publicity Secretary and Mrs. Gloria Ewa elected as Provost.


West African People’s Institute (WAPI); Nigeria’s first private secondary school, founded in 1938 by a renounced Nigerian Nationalist ,Prof Eyo Ita and “Dedicated to West African Youth”.

The vision of the school as promulgated by Prof. Eyo Ita was to train youths to gain technical skills to become self-reliant, reasons for setting up workshops and printing press. 

The 83-year-old institution located at Diamond Hill in Calabar, Cross River state has produced notable Nigerians who have distinguished themselves and occupied vantage positions in their chosen careers including the Current Obong of Calabar.

Be Alive to Your Civic Duty, Governor's Wife Tells Akwa Ibom Women

Wife of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Her Excellency, Dr Mrs. Martha Emmanuel has called on women to take active part in the ongoing INEC Voters Registration Exercise and the e-registration and revalidation exercise of the People’s Democratic Party.

The governor’s wife made the call Thursday, during the Monthly Women Prayer Summit which held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Uyo.

She said both registrations would help them exercise their franchise in the next general elections; hence they should take full advantage of the processes so they can choose their next leaders come 2023.

Dr. Emmanuel added that the ongoing PDP electronic registration exercise has put paid to the rigorous procedure occasioned by the hitherto analog method, stating that it is easy, reliable and convenient to all party faithful.

Speaking on the theme of the prayer meeting, “Fear Not”, Dr. Emmanuel said as Christians, it was expedient for the women to always rely on God’s word for their safety, stating that fear is as a result of an unpleasant emotions.

She further urged the women to embrace Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and savior, averring that life without him is empty and futile.

The first Lady also thanked God Almighty for his marvelous love for the state, saying that the prayer meetings over the years have been a fertile platform through which many lives have been changed and ideas birthed.

While leading in a special worship and thanksgiving session, Dr. Emmanuel specially thanked God for the lives of members of the Prayer team, stating that he will continue to preserve and keep them and their families from the eyes of the wicked.

In her brief but copious exhortation, Deaconess Ime Ette preaching on the theme; ‘Fear Not’ with texts from Jeremiah 29 vs. 11 and Psalm 27 vs. 11, espoused that fear is of the devil; hence no Christian should embrace it.

She charged the congregants to covet the presence of God in their daily living as it is the best covering that a child of God must have.

As part of the meeting, special intercessory prayers were offered for the nation, state, the governor and his family.

28th October, 2021

Nsukka And Governor Udom’s Grand Vision

- By Udeme Nana,Ph.D

Earlier this month, precisely on Thursday, 7th October, this writer joined the entourage of Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State to the University of Nigeria, where the Governor delivered the 2021 Founder’s Day Lecture. The other great ‘Lion’ in the delegation was Nigeria’s former Ambassador to Russia, Chief Assam Assam who had also served Akwa Ibom State as the Attorney – General and Commissioner for Justice. The Founder’s Day was to mark the spectacular contributions of the great statesman, the late Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe to the establishment of the University of Nigeria. The legendary University exists as a counterpoise against the current agitation by some Igbo youths to cut ties with a country for which the great Zik of Africa, their iconic son, who set it up, lived and died.

One does not know why the Governor of Akwa Ibom State was picked as this year’s visiting guest speaker on such an auspicious occasion. As one journeyed through the meandering road towards Nsukka and into the lush greens of that citadel of learning, one wondered if the Vice Chancellor and his team had known that the celebrated Zik of Africa was, in the 1920’s, a mentee of the late Chief Nyong Essien, a respected Akwa Ibom titan, who was the pioneer Chairman of the Eastern Nigeria Council of Chiefs and the Nsom of Uruan in the Ibibio heartland of Akwa Ibom State. There is a possibility that the Governor was properly briefed because he was accompanied by his Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Frank Archibong on the trip.

One imagined the organizers had remembered that the first Head of Government, then known as Leader of Government Business, in the Eastern region was another distinguished Akwa Ibom indigene and a leading intellectual of that era , the late Professor Eyo Ita from Ibeno. Yes, there are memories of Ibanga Udo Akpabio who had served as Secretary – General of the defunct Ibibio state Union and a Minister in the Eastern regional Government who moved the motion for the establishment of the University. Even the symbol of the Institution, the Lion which stands in a menacing poise at the erstwhile main entrance into the University reflects the contribution of another AkwaIbomite as it was chiseled professionally by an Akwa Ibom sculptor, Dr. Uko Akpaide who, incidentally, taught my father when today’s old men were struggling boys in elementary school. Akwa Ibom is also one of the catchment areas of the University, a circumstance which gives advantage to applicants for admission into the school from the state. It would be nice, in addition, to have indigenes of the state enjoy such favourable consideration in employment opportunities. After all, Akwa Ibom was part of the oil – palm belt, the golden goose at that time, which exploitation generated resources to fund the building of the University. So much for some of the vital links between Akwa Ibom and the first indigenous University in Nigeria.

Governor Udom Emmanuel seized the moment to present a case study on how he has changed the narrative of development through infrastructure and Industrialisation in Akwa Ibom, ‘that was once a civil service state’.

According to the Governor, who held the audience spell bound in his characteristic oratory : “ shortly after I was sworn in, fully conscious of where we were going, I set up a Technical Committee on Foreign Direct Investment and charged them to go all out and sell our state, our areas of comparative advantage and ensure that through Industrialisation, we would expand the opportunities of growth for our people “

The Governor, having been properly robed in the requisite academic gown temporarily turned professorial and taught his captive students that ‘the key drivers of Industrialisation were the quality of infrastructure on ground and of course, peace and security since investors will not go to a place that is unsafe and insecure” This explains his ‘Maintain Peace Movement’. It was telling that the Secretary – General of the Group, Prince Enobong Uwah was in the flight. Does anyone out there still have issues with Governor Emmanuel’s deep concern for a peaceful environment?

No doubt, there is a correlation between a peaceful and more secure environment and influx of investors into any location. Any wonder then that Uyo, the state capital, once a sleepy city, is no longer a dull place as it welcomes and hosts business people who fly in to stay, cut deals and savour the hospitable location and its array of delicious cuisines.

Another sector which the present government has changed the narrative is Aviation through Ibom Air even though critics continue to ask questions about the ownership structure of the Airline. Nevertheless, in the words of Mr. Udom Emmanuel “Ibom Air, has become a national sensation, flying the colours of Akwa Ibom within the Nigerian Aviation space and dominating it, a mere two years after its maiden commercial flight’

Indeed, Ibom Air, one of the flagship success stories of Governor Emmanuel operates from the only airport in Nigeria, arguably, with specifications where two aeroplanes can take off at the same time. It is important to underscore that the airline is just one aspect of the business operations plan of the Airport. The Airport in Uyo is a potentially Maintain, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) hub with prospects for job creation, more investments and ancillary businesses. Ultimately, the entire environment around the Airport would become a city with profitable services around it.

The Governor used the podium at Nsukka to repeat his grand vision which a lot of politicians in his state do not seem to see. He noted “ as I always say, it is good for a 21st century leader, to have a broad vision and the requisite exposure to international best practices. What do I mean by that?

He stated ‘your vision is a product of your exposure, what you have seen elsewhere, how those things work and how they can be applied in your local environment to the benefit of the people is a lived experience and not a learned one” Have those throwing mud at ‘Fathers of Faith’ and blackmailing the Governor’s immediate family and other religious leaders concerning the Governor’s succession plan heard that? Which leader would accomplish so much and not want such accomplishments and legacies sustained through a deliberate succession agenda?

Since most Akwa Ibom politicians were not at Nsukka to hear the Governor twice on his mindset about his succession, it would suffice to re – echo Governor Udom Emmanuel’s loud and clear pronouncement on the occasion of the 6th Anniversary of his Administration on the issue, ‘let me now ask you my dear Akwa Ibomites : Do you want a successor who will cancel out all the great strides in industrialization we have started? The peace we currently enjoy and return us to the years when violence and kidnapping reigned and sowed fear in the hearts and minds of the people? Do you want a successor who will come with anger towards all we have done, as opposed to continuing with the great works we have started? Do you want a leader whose approach to testing his popularity would be to drive in a long convoy to “Ibom Plaza” and throw money at the hapless people, watching them scramble for the money and the people would say that’s “Ano owo Mkpo”! Is that the kind of a successor you want? Is that the kind of empowerment our people deserve? Someone who will bring out the worst in our youths rather than challenge them to seize the future and unleash their potentials? Do you want a successor who will relegate God to the background and assume an all-knowing power? Or do you desire a successor with a known e-mail address that the International business community recognises? Do you want a leader who will fritter away our commonwealth in search of cheap popularity or one who would utilize the resources and continue investing in projects with enduring value? Do you want a successor who would see Government as a cabal where our commonwealth would be shared among a privileged few or do you desire a leader who would continue to unleash the entrepreneurial spirit of our people, a successor who understands the economic dynamics that shape our globalized space and would utilize those skills to advance our well-being? These are questions you have to provide answers, and the answers you provide would determine the type of a successor you deserve.

‘Mark my words, we will not return to the type of leadership that is big on noise and small in the execution of the big picture items. We will never go backward on the peace in our land, the steady and focused developments we have started. The line in our State anthem has made this faith manifestly clear: Forward ever and backward never!’

On that occasion, he had also declared :

‘My dear Akwa Ibomites, if what you are desiring is a successor who will not have the capacity and the discipline to build a State where you and your children will live in peace and strive to excel, if you are desiring a successor who will turn back the clock of our developmental strides, if you are desiring a successor who will bring out the worst in our youths as opposed to galvanizing their energies and challenging them to be the best they can be, if you are desiring a leader who would not efficiently utilize the resources of this State on projects that have redeeming value then I am sorry to disappoint you, God will not give us such a successor.’

He had laid emphasis on the point when he further noted:

‘We have gone too far ahead to retreat backward. So, as you are engaging in prognostications, creating camps of loyalty and getting consumed by who you think my successor would be, always bear these thoughts in your mind’

That sums up Governor Udom Emmanuel’s splendid vision ; well written and laid out, stated clearly in unmistakable terms and spoken boldly within and outside the state-QED

GOVERNOR EMMANUEL HAS TRANSFORMED ORO NATION – CHURCH CLERIC


A senior cleric of the African Church has lauded Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State for his development strides in Oron Federal Constituency, insisting that he has changed the course of history for the Oro people.

Most Rev. Israel Benson a native of Udung Uko local government area of the federal constituency, made this commendation during an interview on Comfort 95.1FM Uyo.

Most Rev. Benson, who is as well the Chairman, Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), praised Governor Emmanuel for responding to the needs of the people of Udung Uko by constructing the “the longest road in that area”.

He observed that it was the first time in the history of the State that government has favoured them with a significant project, while describing the road as an answered prayer to the people.

“I thank the Governor for breaking an age-long history in Udung Uko through the construction of that road which links more than 10 communities thus, giving us a true sense of belonging. God has indeed visited us”, he said.

Among other things, Most Rev. Benson noted the impact of the present administration in Oro Nation to include the 13.5KM Okopedi-Oron road, remodeling of the General Hospital, Iquita as well as the siting of the coconut and vegetable farms in Okobo as well as the network of roads in Oron local government area.

“Another road worthy of mentioning is the 13.5KM Okopedi-Oron road by East-West Road Phase 11, as well as the remodeling, reequipping and digitization of the General Hospital at Iquita.

"The Hospital which now serves the people’s health needs better; courtesy of Governor Emmanuel’s intervention is the most preferred in the area”.

“Furthermore, the present administration has made Oro an agricultural hub and destination for the cultivation and purchase of fruit crops. 10 hectares of land have been dedicated to the cultivation of vegetables like tomato at Ekeya, Okobo”, the clergy man said.

Subsequently, he called on people of the area to maintain the infrastructural projects initiated by the government and show maximum support for the ongoing completion agenda.

GOV EMMANUEL PROPOSES N582.1B BUDGET OF REDEFINING STANDARDS FOR 2022 FISCAL YEAR

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.

PRESS RELEASE

RE: ANYONE SAYING NKPO IBAHA IN GOVERNMENT, IS A THIEF - AN IMAGINARY TALE OF MISCHIEF

The attention of the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Lands and Town Planning, Pastor Umo Eno has been drawn to above mischievous tales credited to him and circulated same on major social media channels. This, to say the least, is jaundiced form of journalism at its peak aimed at impugning the time tested image of the Honourable Commissioner who, those who knows him could attest to not being known for labelling people with uncomplimentary narrative.


Similarly, Pastor Umo Eno is a disciplined clergy who carefully selects his words in line with his calling as a Minister of the Gospel and could not have possibly used such uncomplimentary words.

We hereby clearly state that the Honourable Commissioner was the Special Guest at Ndiya, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area to inaugurate a 42-store market project executed by the Councilor representing Ndiya Ward 2, Pastor Anne Abraham. At the ceremony, he encouraged other councillors and public office holders to emulate the councillor's noble gestures, and went further to make cash donations in support of the project.

After inaugurating the market and purchasing some foodstuffs, Pastor Eno went on to empower some women in the community with cash grants.

The alleged statement, "any public office holder who says nkpo ibaha is a thief", is purely an act of mischief and does exist only in the imagination of its purveyors.

While the Honourable Commissioner advises the public to discountenance the story in its entirety, he has however call on news men to always crosscheck facts and information for accuracy before going to the press .


Signed:
Media Unit,
Office of the Honourable Commissioner,
Ministry of Lands and Water Resources.
24/10/21

A'Ibom Female supervisors consolidate on Feyrep project

...provide succor to helpless woman


The Family Life Empowerment and Youth Re-Orientation Path-Initiative (FEYReP), which is the pet project of the wife of the Governor, Dr. (Mrs) Martha Udom Emmanuel, was initiated to better the lives of women in the State, and empower them in all ramifications. The FEYReP programme since its inception, has maintained momentum in empowering women to provide economic and emotional support to their families, advocating for the prevention of teenage pregnancies, ensuring quality education for the girl child as well as promotion of moral values and economic excellence.

In keeping with Mrs. Emmanuel's policy and lofty dreams for women and the girl child in the State, Akwa Ibom State Female Supervisors and Advisers Forum set out to further interprete and consolidate on the Martha Emmanuel's FEYReP project.

Over the week, Akwa Ibom State female supervisors/Advisers Forum led by the President, Queen Blessing Usen intervened in the case of a hapless/homeless woman in Abak LGA, who has been a victim of serial rape by men that took advantage of her helplessness. The woman has nine children from different men who abandoned her after raping and impregnating her in the process. Currently, she is nursing a set of twins.

Fortunately, the said woman today, benefitted from the magnanimity of the Forum of Female Appointees/Advisers who donated some items like diapers, wrappers, cash, and also provided medical care to the woman. The Forum also promised to provide a conducive accomodation for the woman.
Indeed, Her Excellency, Mrs. Martha Udom Emmanuel's life-touching project is achieving its set goals through the support and gesture of the Akwa Ibom State Female Supervisors/Advisers Forum.

GOV EMMANUEL RELISHES GAINS OF SECURITY RETREAT IN THE US

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.

"It is just for all of us to agree that this is what we want and we will get it. Once we agree that peace is what we want we will get it", he stated.


According to him, "the whole world is trying to come together to chart a course, where we have to go back to how we used to live together. That's the whole idea".

The Governor however sued for patience and the cooperation from citizens and stakeholders in the project, assuring that Nigeria will be better for it.

"It's a process. It's not something we can achieve in one day. Now that we've started the process, we must keep the momentum and everybody must be back to the table to speak and let's see where Nigeria will be tomorrow", Governor Emmanuel maintained.

He thanked the International President of Global Peace Foundation, Mr. Jimmy Fling, Mohammed Camara of Guinea, Bishop Onoha of Nigeria and other contributors at the conference, recounting that all participants 88cknowledging peace as the one word all must strive to establish.

"We are all working towards that and in a nearby future we will achieve that. We really want to find a lasting solution", he affirmed.

Governor Emmanuel also thanked the people of Akwa Ibom State for the opportunity to serve and be portrayed in good light, expressing gratitude for the privilege of being selected as a key influencer to be part of the mission.

*MPM BOAT ARRIVES NDIYA WARD 2, INAUGURATES STEERING COMMITTEE*

The peace advocacy machinery of Governor Udom Emmanuel, Maintain Peace Movement (MPM), on Wednesday made a historical stop over at Ndiya Ward 2 in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area to inaugurate its chapter officials.

Inaugurating the steering committee, leader of MPM in Nsit Ubium and Commissioner for Lands and Water Resources, Pastor Umo Eno, urged the people to sustain the existing peace in the community, which he said, is the purpose of the movement.

He said MPM as a peace advocacy machinery of the state Governor, gears towards sustaining the gains of good governance in order to attract meaningful development into the state.

Pastor Eno enjoined the people of Ndiya Ward 2 who wish to be members of PDP, to avail themselves the opportunity in the ongoing online registration exercise, urging those who are of voting age but have not gotten voter’s card, to visit any INEC registration centre and get their PVCs in order to be qualified to vote candidates of their choice into power during the 2023 elections which will be on a direct-primary basis.

Political Leader of the Ward, Capt. Iniobong Ekong (rtd), who was represented by Dr. Aniefiok Edem, assured MPM of sustenance of the existing peace in the local government and the state at large.

The MPM steering committee for Ndiya Ward 2 has the Councilor representing the ward and Chief Whip of Nsit Ubium 7th Legislative Council, Hon. (Pst.) Anne Abraham, as Coordinator, while Rev. Offong Inyang and Emmanuel Udo are to serve as Deputy Coordinator and Secretary respectively.

Other members of the steering committee include Bassey Mkpongenyong, Hannah Solomon, Samuel Enefiok, Anietie Ekong, Enobong Evans, Ofonmbuk Ebong, Uyoh Isaac Uyoh, and Idongesit Isong Uko, with 52 Advisers.

In her acceptance speech as Coordinator, Hon. (Pst) Anne Abraham stated that the arrival of MPM in Ndiya Ward 2, can simply be described as an improvement to the already existing peace in the community, assuring the team to work with the committee members to ensure a sustainable peaceful coexistence across the four communities of the ward and the state at large.

Nsit Ubium Council Chairman, Hon. (Arc.) Iniobong Orok; and his Vice, Hon. (Mrs.) Ntiense Sampson; Member representing Nsit Ubium at the State House of Assembly, Hon. Otobong Effiong Bob; and Secretary of MPM, Nsit Ubium chapter, Otuekong Emmanuel Iwok, were among other dignitaries at the ward tour.

Community declares one party system as Ndanti Ekuh leads PDP Officers, others to home town

....doles out cash, wrappers, food


It was a sea of heads in the country home of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, Elder Ndanti Ekuh as he led Peoples Democratic Party's officers and other government functionaries to brief his community on the activities of Governor Udom Emmanuel's administration and also feel the pulse of the people of his community on Sunday 17th October, 2021.

Those in the delegation of the Governor's Aide were the Secretary of Uyo Local Government Council, Mr. Ubong Udofia who also hails from the village, the Councilor Representing Ikono II, Hon. (Mrs.) Emeti Aniekan who doubles as the Chief Whip of Uyo Local Government Legislative Council. Others were the PDP Ward Chairman, Mr. Akaninyene Obot, Ward woman and youth Leaders, Mrs. Elizabeth Sunday and Ubong Nelson respectively.

Addressing the people of his community, Elder Ekuh said the visit was a home coming to give a progress report of the State Government to his kinsmen and also interact with them to know the challenges in the village in order to solve them accordingly.

While thanking the Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel for giving him the opportunity to serve in his administration, Ekuh said it's natural that his community should feel the impact of government having gotten sons who are appointees of government at the State and local government levels.

He thanked the village Council for the good leadership they have ensured in the village and urged them to keep maintaining the prevailing peace in the community in consonant with the Governor's peace movement - MPM, stressing that where there is no peace, there can be no development.

Further, Ekuh charged the people of the community to see the ongoing voters registration as an opportunity to acquire power they can use to do and undo, noting that their votes is their power. He emphasized that until the community is harmed with an intimidating voting strength, they will not be relevant in politics both in the state and national level.

Counting the consequences of being in opposition party, the Governor's Aide reminded that even the scripture has warmed about being in opposition and therefore charged the people of Nung Asang Ikono to embrace the Peoples Democratic Party and massively register for the membership of the party which he said is ongoing.

He assured that adequate logistics will be put in place for a door-to-door mobilization of the entire community to register for both the continuous voters card and the PDP membership card while doling out cash and wrappers to the people of the community.

In their separate speeches, members of the delegation thanked the community for coming out enmass on the invitation of their son, stressing that it was a demonstration of the Love and support given to Elder Ekuh, in extension, the State Governor by the people of Nung Asang village and also encouraged them to que behind their sons who are in government in order to enjoy more government blessings and dividends of democracy.

In their part, the people of Nung Asang Ikono thanked the State Governor for appointing Elder Ndanti Ekuh as his Special Assistant on Research and Documentation, stating that the appointment gives the community a sense of belonging in the state.

They poured encomium on Elder Ekuh for not forgetting his village, stating that his gesture was a show of love for his people and prayed God to entrust him with higher responsibility so that he can do more for the village.

Representatives of the village Council, women and youth took turn to narrate some challenges in the village and expressed optimism that the Governor's Aide will draw the attention of the State Government to the challenges, even as they all applauded him for coming down to sit and interact with his people.

While praying God to protect him, the community pledge total support to Govenor Udom Emmanuel's completion agenda and his succession plan as well as the Peoples Democratic Party, saying that the entire community belongs to PDP as no one in the community is interested in any other Political party.

Also in the Governor's Aide's team were the Nollywood star, Mr. Ekere Nkanga, Former Deputy Leader of Uyo Legislative Council, Hon. Anthony Ekong, PDP Ward Publicity Secretary, Mr. Bassey Orok, Mr. Mike Ekot and Mrs. Idara Aniedi.

It could be recalled that Elder Ndanti Ekuh had earlier visited the village Council immediately after his appointment where he received royal blessings from the Chief Edet Jimmy Udofia led Village council.

PRESS RELEASE

THAT UNPRIESTLY VITUPERATION AGAINST AKWA IBOM BY DR SAMUEL UCHE, PRELATE OF METHODIST CHURCH

" I am saying this publicly and I am not mincing words, former governor Akpabio and the incumbent Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, left a very big shoe behind that is still very difficult to fill in Akwa Ibom State."
- Prelate of Methodist Church, Samuel Chukwuemeka Kalu Uche


The above comment credited to the Prelate of the Methodist Church with reference to Akwa Ibom state is beyond mischief, and can rightly be described as blackmail taken too far. Dr Samuel Chukwuemeka Kanu Uche, is quoted as alleging at a programme in one of the branches of his church in Abuja that, "the Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio, " left behind shoes too large for others to wear in Akwa Ibom State."

At first it sounded like a joke or prank by some idle bloggers, especially since the name of the prelate is wrongly presented as Sunday instead of Samuel. But one of the media editors confirmed to us that the news was specially sponsored by a certain Jackson Udom, who is better rooted in his adopted state, Oyo State, than his ancestral home, Etinan in Akwa Ibom. We understand that the said Jackson Udom, who is circulating this news, is indeed a Personal Assistant on Media to the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

We waited to see if the prelate Samuel Uche would react to it, to no avail. Having seen no contrary remarks from the methodist Prelate, we are compelled to believe that he made that wild allegations, possibly to also dig deep into the former Governor's established norm, that what money cannot do (for greedy and selfish Nigerians) more money can do.

It’s the height of unfounded generalization by the Pastor Samuel Uche, whose statement implies that Akwa Ibom State under Udom Emmanuel is faring woefully. Nothing could be so untrue. It is on record that Akwa Ibom is among the top 3 viable states in Nigeria occasioned by the Governor’s judicious management of resources. In recent times, there has been series of projects being commissioned and endorsed by series of political chieftains from the country's seat of power, signifying progress and monumental strides. It begs to ask at this point, could a poorly managed state be building and commissioning the magnitude of projects such as the 21 storey Dakkada Tower office complex, the multiplicity of urban roads and even the Uyo- Ikot Ekpene dual carriageway road it met at 20% execution? The answer to this is self- revealing.

Akwa Ibom remains one of the few states in Nigeria that is not owing its workers and pensioners, thanks to the Governor’s financial management capability. The Pastor Uche should be told that goodwill as an asset, isn’t earned through propaganda and character assassination. It was in this respect that Shakespeare cautioned that, “the devil can cite the scripture for his purpose.”


Rev. Uche must know that the yardstick for measuring growth in the global south is the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME). In this regard, isn’t it glaringly clear that Governor Udom Emmanuel is the one “adjusting a tight shoe” for a perfect fit? Put differently, isn’t the current Governor of Akwa Ibom the one re- navigating the trajectory of livelihood through the creation of jobs, wealth and poverty alleviation? What happened to those indices in the past, particularly, before 2015, especially when most parts of the state could not be accessed due to terrorism?

Thus, the economic growth and development, measured by the over 18 industries that this government has attracted to the state in the past six years, the nine remodeled secondary healthcare facilities / General Hospitals, and the developments in the aviation industry, including the Orange Air Magic, Ibom Air and the International Airport Terminal Building, as well as the efforts in comprehensive revolution in education and agriculture, attest to the fact that Akwa Ibom is faring superlatively better than what was obtained before 2015, when the former governor left the saddle.

If perhaps the Pastor Samuel Uche, had a good relationship with his members in Akwa Ibom, he would have been informed that the state that was notorious for unrivaled carnage and politically masterminded kidnap and assassinations, had since 2015, become safe haven where businesses are thriving and development now cuts across all the local government areas simultaneously.

On this note, we have some pertinent large shoes puzzles for the Pastor Uche:

* Are the large shoes the high spate of insecurity in the state that led to the loss of thousands of lives, which reduced the state to a mere killing field?

* Do the large shoes also include the backlog of pensions and gratuities the previous administration never paid throughout the tenure of 2007 to 2015?

* Did Uche calculate the debts left behind from the Stadium complex project, the moribund Tropicana project, and some roads projects, among contents of the large shoes?

* Which part of the large shoes could one find a single dual carriageway or major road project in the entirety of Eket Senatorial District, despite being the treasure base of the state with 12 local government areas?

* Knowing what 200 million naira can achieve in community development projects, does Pastor Uche also know that each of the people the former governor used to bring for his praise singing, carted home such outrageous amounts? Soccer star Pele, got his($300,000), and still refused to honour the invitation to the state. What a large shoe!

As a clergyman, we won't ask Samuel Uche how much he was carted home for this misplaced meaningless swipe, but we are compelled to advise him to focus on the pulpit and the duty of winning souls, instead of being a tool of political blackmails.

We in the Mandate Eyes hereby call on the Pastor Sunday Uche to apologize to Akwa Ibom people, for insulting their integrity with such a veiled and destructive comment. He should desist from making provocative utterances capable of inciting sane people of the now peaceful Akwa Ibom state.


Signed


Uwemedimoh Umanah,PhD
Director of Public Communications,
Mandate Eyes/ Special Assistant to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State.
15/10/21

A'IBOM STATE GOVERNMENT SET TO PARTICIPATE IN A WORLD CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE.

Akwa Ibom State Government is set to participate in a World Climate Change Conference billed for 31st October in Glasgow, Scotland.

The Commissioner for Environment and Solid Minerals, Sir. Charles Udoh made this known Thursday, when the 2021NUJ Press Week Committee paid him a courtesy visit in his office.

Sir. Udoh said that Akwa Ibom State would be part of the Conference to showcase the state's natural resources and attract partnership.

He said that Akwa Ibom state government is undeterred in bringing a permanent solution to its ecological problems, one of which he listed to include the IBB Flood Control Project, the largest flood control project going on in Nigeria.

'' One critical thing about IBB flood control project is that , unlike other flood control systems that we have done in the past, we are doing it with medium long term vision.'' While explaining that, the project will bring an end to the flood at Atiku Abubakar through the ongoing drainage programme at the front of the state secretariat,Idongesit Nkanga , Sir Udoh assured of a free flood environment in no distant date.

He also disclosed that the state government has awarded contract for the construction of the Ikpa Road 's Gully Erosion Site,adding that it encompasses Ikpa Road Vicinity, the Science Park and adjoining areas.

The Commissioner who reiterated that issues on Environment should not be left in the hands of government alone advocated for public education, sensitization and proper attitude on environment to ameliorate the ongoing environmental crisis.

While calling for all hands to be on deck, the Environment Boss added that the Environmental Health Officers on their part are monitoring and also ensuring that eateries and other food outlets imbibe safety and health measures for the overall wellbeing of citizens.

The Commissioner who decried the indiscriminate use of billboards reminded that the ministry is still enforcing the right attitude to advertising by providing sanctions to defaulters .

He thanked the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists for the visit and advised the Union to always pray for leaders at all times promised to support the union to achieve its goals.

Speaking ,the leader of the delegation, Comrade Etorobong Inyang, Chairman of the 2021 NUJ Press Week Committee congratulated the Commissioner for the successful hosting of the first Ever Environment Friendly Awards in the State.,saying that the Commissioner has changed the narrative in the environment sector.

The Chairman Of the Press Week intimated that the Press week is a Week- long event which is expected to commence on 5th December and end on the 10th of the month.

Also speaking, Akwa Ibom State Chairman of Nigerian Union of Journalists, Comrade Amos Etuk thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel for embarking on a gigantic IBB flood control project, saying that when the project is completed the flood problem within the area will be the thing of the past. He added that the Commissioner for Environment and Solid Minerals, Sir. Charles Udoh has brought a new dynamism and ideology into the ministry
A'IBOM STATE GOVERNMENT SET TO PARTICIPATE IN A WORLD CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE.

Akwa Ibom State Government is set to participate in a World Climate Change Conference billed for 31st October in Glasgow, Scotland.

The Commissioner for Environment and Solid Minerals, Sir. Charles Udoh made this known Thursday, when the 2021NUJ Press Week Committee paid him a courtesy visit in his office.

Sir. Udoh said that Akwa Ibom State would be part of the Conference to showcase the state's natural resources and attract partnership.

He said that Akwa Ibom state government is undeterred in bringing a permanent solution to its ecological problems, one of which he listed to include the IBB Flood Control Project, the largest flood control project going on in Nigeria.

'' One critical thing about IBB flood control project is that , unlike other flood control systems that we have done in the past, we are doing it with medium long term vision.'' While explaining that, the project will bring an end to the flood at Atiku Abubakar through the ongoing drainage programme at the front of the state secretariat,Idongesit Nkanga , Sir Udoh assured of a free flood environment in no distant date.

He also disclosed that the state government has awarded contract for the construction of the Ikpa Road 's Gully Erosion Site,adding that it encompasses Ikpa Road Vicinity, the Science Park and adjoining areas.

The Commissioner who reiterated that issues on Environment should not be left in the hands of government alone advocated for public education, sensitization and proper attitude on environment to ameliorate the ongoing environmental crisis.

While calling for all hands to be on deck, the Environment Boss added that the Environmental Health Officers on their part are monitoring and also ensuring that eateries and other food outlets imbibe safety and health measures for the overall wellbeing of citizens.

The Commissioner who decried the indiscriminate use of billboards reminded that the ministry is still enforcing the right attitude to advertising by providing sanctions to defaulters .

He thanked the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists for the visit and advised the Union to always pray for leaders at all times promised to support the union to achieve its goals.

Speaking ,the leader of the delegation, Comrade Etorobong Inyang, Chairman of the 2021 NUJ Press Week Committee congratulated the Commissioner for the successful hosting of the first Ever Environment Friendly Awards in the State.,saying that the Commissioner has changed the narrative in the environment sector.

The Chairman Of the Press Week intimated that the Press week is a Week- long event which is expected to commence on 5th December and end on the 10th of the month.

Also speaking, Akwa Ibom State Chairman of Nigerian Union of Journalists, Comrade Amos Etuk thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel for embarking on a gigantic IBB flood control project, saying that when the project is completed the flood problem within the area will be the thing of the past. He added that the Commissioner for Environment and Solid Minerals, Sir. Charles Udoh has brought a new dynamism and ideology into the Ministry.

ITA ENANG IS A RABBLE-ROUSER, MISFIT FOR LEADERSHIP - USDMPF

An Uyo based Media Professional Group, Uyo Senatorial District Media Practitioners Forum (USDMPF) has descended hard on the Senior Special Assistant to President Buhari on Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Ita Enang and described him as a rabble-rouser that should be ignored by Akwa Ibom people.

The group stated this in a strong worded letter of advise signed by the group's head of publicity and Strategic Communication, Pastor Michael Okon following the Senator's recent unguarded outburst on the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr Udom Emmanuel.

Senator Enang who was a guest on the inspiration FM programme "Talk Radio" made some disparaging comments aimed at inciting Akwa Ibom people against the governor which the group urged the people to ignore Enang's blackmail.

According to the statement, "Ita Enang claims that he single-handedly brought the Federal University of Technology to Ikot Abasi LGA is false. The question is; if he was so influential in attracting the Federal University to Akwa Ibom State, how come he failed in all his efforts to take the institution to Ididep, his village in Ibiono Ibom which he always wanted?

This goes to show that Ita Enang did not, and does not know how the Federal University was approved for Akwa Ibom State. He, in his usual manner is trying to score cheap political point. Very typical of a Red Herring Fallacy".

The group maintained that Ita Enang by his remark seems to be aloof on how things work by claiming a lone voice in the wilderness.

The statement added, "Ita Enang should bury his head in shame that despite his "pushings", nothing good has been done. Is Ita Enang trying to announce to the world that he is "Mr. Push and abandon"? Why has nothing been done about the sorry state of the Calabar Itu road which Ita Enang claims he has been " pushing"? This clearly shows that he (Ita Enang) is just an empty vessel in the APC government without any iota of influence to attract development to Akwa Ibom State As rightly said in Proverbs 10:31: "The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom: but the froward tongue shall be cut out", Ita Enang should watch his utterances on Governor Udom Emmanuel, so that he would not end up losing his tongue for vain utterance.



As the 2023 governorship election approaches , the USDMPF and some informed citizens are not surprised that, Senator Enang has returned to his old play book of playing to the gallery and throwing mud at the Governor. Seeking to contest the 2023 Governorship Election, Senator Enang, bereft of any economic development blueprint to present to the people, has resorted to his infamous path of coercion through campaign of calumny.

The forum called on the people of Akwa Ibom State to disregard Ita Enang's outburst being his usual roller coaster of self-delusion trying to link the Governor Udom Emmanuel with his irredeemable and miserable APC defection.

The statement further reads, "USDMPF however wishes to further advise Senator Enang to engage the people of Akwa Ibom State on his economic development agenda for the state as he struggles for the governorship ticket, instead of coercing the incumbent".

They cautioned that the Senator Enang should know that desecration of the high office of the governor which he desperately wants to occupy is not only an abberation but bad politics.

And reminded him that those who seek for equity must go with clean hands, adding that "when he (Ita Enang) served three terms in the House of Representatives and sought a second term in the Senate, he never thought of the propriety of micro-zoning he is championing today and how other components of the Federal Constituency or the Senatorial District respectively had felt".

GOV EMMANUEL BREATHES LIFE INTO 117 YEAR OLD AKWA IBOM HOSPITAL

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

DEFECTION SPECULATION: INTEGRITY GROUP CARPETS ITA ENANG FOR CHILDISH RANT AGAINST GOV EMMANUEL

A key interest support group in Akwa Ibom State says the "infantile and logically obtuse outburst by Senator Ita Enang," in a radio interview last weekend should be dismissed as a mere rant of an attention seeker.

The group, Akwa Ibom Integrity Alliance in a statement in Uyo endorsed by its convener, Mr Faith Mboho, described the president's aide as a man known to suffer from seemingly incurable disease of the diarrhoea of the mouth.

This, they maintain, often leads Senator Enang to childishly peddle falsehood, such as the speculation that Governor Udom Emmanuel was defecting to APC simply because he brought Vice President Osinbajo and Senate President Ahmad Lawan to inaugurate some of his projects.

"Let us state here unequivocally, that Governor Udom Emmanuel, WILL NEVER JOIN THE APC, he has never entertained such thoughts and will never even deign such, a nanosecond consideration."

They described Governor Emmanuel as "a major Stakeholder of the Peoples Democratic Party, a loyal party man and a key member in the vanguard to position the PDP as the alternative to what has befallen Nigeria in the last six plus years of Ita Enang’s party rule."

"The group insisted that Governor Emmanuel's stellar performance, accounts for the desperate attempt to a move to APC.

"We understand the desire and desperation for Ita Enang’s party to have a Five Star Governor, in the mould of Governor Emmanuel, whose performance has drawn commendations from key members of Ita Enang’s party, be associated with them, but sorry to disappoint you, Senator, Governor Udom Emmanuel is not going anywhere, he remains a PDP member for life".

To them, "it is sad and unfortunate that Senator Ita Enang would base his outlandish claims on the fact that Governor Emmanuel invited both the Vice President and the Senate President, both of the APC to help commission projects in the state as the reason for his fantasy- filled defection talk.

"Perhaps Ita Enang needs to be informed that Governor Udom Emmanuel has nationalist credentials and bonafides, and above all, sees himself as a professional in politics as opposed to being purely a professional politician", they concluded.

SENATE PRESDIENT DESCRIBES GOV EMMANUEL AS SYMBOL OF PEACE,PROGRESS AND UNITY,

...INAUGURATES 25KM UYO-IKOT EKPENE DUALISED ROAD

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Media Unit,
Govt House, Uyo
Akwa Ibom State
05/10/21

ANTICIPATE VALENTINE IN SEPTEMBER

The word or name Valentine which is "contextually" synonymous with love and affection is often associated with the month of February. Specifically, February 14 is marked world over, across religious and ethnic lines as "the lover's day". Though the underpinning explanation and myth for this celebration vary, it is the case that everyone knows that date as the day when lovers celebrate.

Whereas the forgoing is the status quo, new things happen every day. This year, there is an innovation - TO CELEBRATE VALENTINE IN SEPTEMBER.

Too many people are out of love but there is hope that all those in need of love will find LOVE AGAIN this September.

Full details of this love birthing event shall drop tomorrow, September 9, 2021. You desire to find love, to Love Again or be Loved Again? - wake up on this page tomorrow.

#LoveAgain
#ValentineinSeptember

ANIEKAN AKPAN EMERGES AKWA IBOM PDP'S NEW CHAIRMAN

A former state House of Assembly member, Elder Aniekan Akpan has emerged the new chairman of Akwa Ibom State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party.

He emerged during a Special State Congress of the Party at the Nest of Champions,Uyo.

The state leader of the party, Governor Udom Emmanuel, accompanied by his wife Martha, led other delegates to the special Congress.

Aniekan Akpan hails from Ikot Oku Usung, Ukanafun Local Government Area, and is a retired professional teacher and school administrator.

His political profile commenced with his appointment as member, Caretaker Committee, National Republican Convention (NRC) - 1992

He served as Secretary, Ukanafun Local Government Council - 2000 - 2002, and was later elected executive Chairman, Ukanafun Local Government Council from 2008 - 2011.

He served as Member, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly from 2011 - 2015, before being appointed as the state Commissioner for Education in 2015.

Elder Akpan, an elder of Qua Iboe Church of Nigeria served as a Commissioner l, in the Local Government Service Commission from 2019 before he resigned few months ago to indicate interest in the party plum job.

As the 7th Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Elder Aniekan Akpan is expected to serve out the remain years of Obong Udo Ekpenyong's tenure which was truncated following his as sudden death earlier this year.

DR. GLORY EDET RECEIVES AGRIC INNOVATION AWARD

The Honorable Commissioner for Agriculture, Akwa Ibom State, Dr. Glory Edet, was on Saturday, June 26, 2021, honored with the prestigious Agric Innovation Award at the just concluded Ibom Conference 2021 held at Discovery Park Uyo.

Dr. Edet was honored for contributing her quota to the achievement of Governor Udom Emmanuel's Completion Agenda by developing innovative and sustainable solutions that have led to social, environmental, and economic benefits in the agriculture and agro-industry sectors in Akwa Ibom.

Represented by Mr. Ernest Awakessien, a Greenhouse Supervisor in the Ministry, Dr. Edet said the event was timely, considering the premium placed on agriculture and food sufficiency in Akwa Ibom by Governor Udom Emmanuel-led administration.

She hinted that the government has so far distributed farm inputs worth millions of Naira to farmers to boost the cultivation of cash crops in the state.

The Commissioner expressed pleasure over her recognition at the event, saying that the award is a call to do more to support Governor Udom Emmanuel's Completion Agenda.

Recall that Dr. Edet, a former University lecturer, has raised a bar in the Agriculture Sector of the State since her appointment and subsequent posting to the Ministry of Agriculture as the Commissioner.

Recently, the Ministry has distributed over 100,000 oil palm seedlings, 700,000 cocoa seedlings, knapsack sprayers, agrochemicals, and cash support to farmers, among others.

Meanwhile, #IbomCORNference2021 had as its theme "Inspiring Agro-CORNcern Among Akwa Ibom Youths."

The event, which will be annual, was organized to harness and showcase opportunities in agribusiness, agro-entrepreneurship, and innovation.

GOVERNOR EMMANUEL INAUGURATES 28 INTERNAL ROADS IN UYO, 2.1 KM in IBESIKPO

The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel Friday inaugurated 28 internal roads totaling 17.1 Kilometers in Uyo metropolis, with a promise to construct more roads to boost economic activities and security in the State.

At Ewet Housing Extension, Osong Ama in Uyo, Governor Emmanuel stressed the need to open up the state capital for industrial development and economic growth, while creating the right environment to attract investors.

"Tomorrow we will touch other parts of Uyo as well in commissioning, every year this is what we will be doing as we take other trunk roads, we try to put in a whole lot within Uyo metropolis so that it will be easy for economic activities.

"Even in terms of security network, it will be a lot easier, we need to expand the town, everyone will not cluster in the town. The easiest way of opening up any community is construction of roads.

"People keep asking what we will be doing with 21 storey smart building, let me use this platform to explain, if you don't bring in people your economy cannot grow this is to attract people to come and help you”, he stated.

The governor expressed satisfaction over the quality of road construction done by HENSEK Construction Company and other companies handling the road projects, adding that the project has opened the entire Ewet Housing Extension and other roads, encouraging new businesses in the area.

The roads inaugurated yesterday include; 19 internal roads in Ewet Housing Extension (Phase 1) 6.2KM, Multiple Grace School Road 1.5KM, Clement Isok Street, Nkan Avenue 1.4KM, Heartland School Road 1KM, Sylvanus Annette Cresent 1KM, Essien Inyang Street 0.6km, Pastor Simon Umoren Lane 0.6km.

In a related development Governor Udom Emmanuel moved to inaugurate a 2.1km internal roads in Ikot Akpabin, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government and approved an additional 1km road to be constructed in Ikot Akpabin.

Governor Emmanuel noted that the road projects are fulfillments of his promise to touch the rural communities through development and empowerment programmes encapsulated in the Completion Agenda of his administration to benefit the rural communities and stimulate the economy in the rural areas.

“One of the pillars of our Completion Agenda has been to touch the rural and riverine areas in our administration.

"Very soon we will come back to Ibesikpo there are other longer streets we are constructing measuring 14km.

Presenting an overview of the road projects inaugurated, the Commissioner of Works and Fire Service, Prof. Eno Ibanga, expressed appreciation to Governor Udom Emmanuel for intervening in the poor state of internal roads in Uyo, and assured government of the quality of roads which would last up to 15 years.

Prof. Ibanga explained that the Governor has transformed Ikot Akpabin from a rural community into a city making life more comfortable to the people.

In their separate goodwill messages, the Member Representing Uyo State Constituency, Hon.Anietie Ekah, and Member Representing Ibesikpo Asutan State Constituency, Hon. Aniekan Uko, commended Governor Udom Emmanuel's industrialization drive which they noted has positioned the state in the comity of nation.

Also making remarks the Chairman of Uyo Local Government, Dr. Uwemedimo Udoh, and his counterpart from Ibesikpo Asutan, Hon. Akon Michael, described the projects as historic, commending Governor Udom Emmanuel for his people-oriented projects which have encouraged economic growth and a facelift to their respective communities.

Also making some remarks, the Paramount Ruler of Uyo Local Government, Edidem Sylvanus Okon, and the Paramount Ruler of Ibesikpo Asutan, Edidem Clement Ekpenyong both thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel for fulfilling his promise to the people, adding that his administration has identified with the rural communities across the State.


Media Unit
Govt House, Uyo
29/05/21