GOV TAMBUWAL TO INAUGURATE 100M³ MEDICAL GAS PLANT, ROADS, OTHERS IN AKWA IBOM TODAY

A Medical Gas and Vacuum Plant, acknowledged as the largest in the country, and more internal roads projects are billed for inauguration today as part of activities to mark the Sixth Anniversary of Mr Udom Emmanuel as Governor of Akwa Ibom State.

The medical gas and vaccum plant is situated within the premises of the Infectious Diseases Control Centre which also houses the International Molecular Laboratory Isolation Center in Ituk Mbang,Uruan Local Government Area.

According to the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, a former Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives and Governor of Sokoto state, Rt. Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal is expected as special guest to commission these projects today.

The One hundred metric cube (100m³) of pure Oxygen per hour Oxygen Cylinder Refilling Station has the capacity of refilling 30 cylinders per day.

It also has a 12 by 2 automatic oxygen cylinder8 manifold. It is also built to perform critical care needs for patients in a post- Covid world.

Meanwhile, residents and business operators around the Mechanic Village in Afaha Offot, and Akpasak Estate along the Airport Road, all within Uyo Metropolis, are also expected to roll out the drums and welcome the top government functionaries to their respective localities.

The occasion is the commissioning of more internal roads executed by Governor Emmanuel to ease free flow of traffic and business activities in the state capital.

The roads include the 2.3km Mechanic Village- Udoeyen Road, the Sir Mendo, Edem George and Streets as well as the Akpasak Estate access road measuring One kilometre.

The Sokoto State Governor is also expected to commission the residence of the Chairman, State Council of Chiefs along Wellington Bassey Way, Uyo.

Yesterday, Governor Emmanuel inaugurated some internal roads within Ewet Housing Estate Extension (1) and also commissioned another road at Ikot Akpabin in Ibesikpo Asutan local government area.

According to an official release by the state government, the two Airbuses earlier expected to be unveiled today have been postponed to a later date due to the extended time required for international crew preparations under the Covid19 protocols.

The release also announces that there is no restriction of movements during the monthly sanitation exercise in the state today.


Media Unit
Govt House,Uyo
29/05/21

Wife Of Akwa lbom State Commissioner For Environment Advocates Stiffer Penalty, justice On Killer Of Iniobong Umoren



The wife of the Akwa lbom State commissioner for Environment and Solid Minerals, Noble Lady Regina Charles Udoh, has called on security agencies to ensure strict adherence to the rule of law on the murderers of late Iniobong Umoren. Mrs. Udoh made this charge in Uyo, the state capital yesterday while addressing a group of journalists on the issue.

She said there was need for the fully implementation of a girl-child right in the state given random molestation, abuse and rape cases even when the wife of Akwa lbom State Governor, Her Excellency, Dr Martha Udom Emmanuel had ensured the amendment of the girl-child right law against molestation, rape, violence against women and other related matters .

Noble Lady Regina Udoh who frawned at a situation where women, or girl-child are always victims of circumstances, called on the legislatures to enact a law that will ensure restrictions of assault on women even to the married women with stiffer penalty, adding that gone are days women used to be treated with ignominy.

The wife of the Environment and solid Minerals helmsman also expressed sadness over the death of Iniubong Umoren. She advised job seekers to always be careful and watchful to avoid such dilemma.

She condoles with the family of the deceased on the untimely demise of their love one, and stated hat the visitation of the state government to the family of the deceased, was a true demonstration of the present administration of His Excellency Governor Udom Emmanuel's sensitivity on the plight of Akwa lbom people.

Mrs. Udoh while thanking the state government for rising against the ugly incident, also commended the wife of the Governor, Her Excellency Dr. Martha Udom Emmanuel for her wisdom in advocating stiffer penalty for rapist which was passed into law in 2018.

" I thank the first Lady of Akwa Ibom State Dr. Martha Udom Emmanuel for giving her support to Akwa lbom women to have that right of place even to the extent of enacting the girl-child right law for gender equality. I want to also advise Akwa lbom people to always alert security agencies on any practice or movement suspected to be illegal. She further advised every girl-child to be security conscious as well as alerting their relation on movement."

“FOR WITH GOD, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE”, BEING THE FULL TEXT OF A PRESS STATEMENT PRESENTED BY PRIMATE OF THE AFRICAN CHURCH, HIS EMINENCE, DR. EMMANUEL UDOFIA, DURING THE BIENNIAL CONFERENCE HELD AT ST STEPEHEN’S CATHEDRAL; 25, WELLINGTON BASSEY WAY, UYO AKWA IBOM STATE, ON THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021



We thank God immensely for his overwhelming providence made available to us all without bias. The Love of God is no doubt the reason for our continuous resilience against all odds, threats and life’s challenges.


As a church, we attribute our journey so far to God’s unfailing hands and owe Him our reverence for keeping us in one fitful piece through the storms of our Christian race. We recall that God never promised that the race would be problem-free, but He did promise to be with us even till the end of time (Matt 16:18-19).

We recall the issues which almost tore the church into shreds in 2019, the crisis which sprang from them and how God made it possible for us to overcome them. Obviously, His words have not failed hence, our unreserved gratitude to Him and the Conference theme: “For with God, all things are possible”.

For purposes of posterity, let me again empahsise that God is the owner of the church, and He provided a manual for the operations of the church. The African Church, founded in 1901, is an institution founded by God. There is a Constitution, a codified document that describes and defines expectations, functions, requirements and everything about the institutions of the church. The church has experienced dynamism that constantly shaped her metamorphosis over the years. There are three documents that guide the church – The Bible, The Constitution, and The Book of Common Prayer and Liturgy.

It should be noted that the Constitution of The African Church has been reviewed five times: - in October, 1960; May, 1979; February, 1992; May, 1998; and, May, 2014. Every review captures the expectations of the church for improvements that cures the defects of the initial documents. Section 12.1 of the 2014 Constitution of the church specifies, inter alia, that: “The Highest and Supreme Organ in and for The African Church shall be the Conference.” This provision settles the question of which organ of the church is the supreme authority of the church.

At the 113th Conference which midwifed the 2014 Constitution, it was specifically stated, that; 7.03 (i) “Qualifying age for the Primate was retained at 50 years, Archbishop 45 years. They are to serve for 10 years or retire at the age of 60 years (whichever comes first). However, the incumbent Primate will retire at the age of 65 years as provided in the current Constitution.” See page 12 of the 113th Conference Report.

Marrying it with the provisions of the Constitution of the church, the truth clearly stands out that my tenure as the incumbent Primate of the church is fifteen (15) years, or the attainment of 65 years, whichever comes first. These are sacred facts that are unambiguous, and thus, cannot be twisted or denied.

I pray that what we are facing today in the church should lead us to true repentance and; show true love for one another as taught in the world of God, so that none of us will be left out during Rapture (when the son of God shall come for his own) in Jesus name


STATE OF THE NATION
The unending dramatic stage which Nigeria has turned out to be is not only baffling but appalling and distasteful. It is both saddening and sickening that the sacrificial labour of our past heroes has become a anthem to be recited only when the need arises, while the painstaking efforts for unity, togetherness and love are left without regard. Of a truth, Nigeria has retrogressed perhaps to an irredeemable extent where prayer and a total change of attitude and action in the positive, seems to be the only viable panacea.


Let me start with the gruesome murder of the young graduate, Iniubong Umoren whose unfortunate story has spread like wildfire. It is disheartening that a promising girl-child with so much life, energy and the will to contribute to the state and national workforce for a more productive economy had her life sniffed out for nothing but evil, penchant and ungodly deeds. I condemn this totally and join the voice of thousands of women to ask that full justice prevails without any form of cover-up. Our women should be protected, loved and cared for; and not victimized. While sending my heartfelt condolences to the family, I call on the Government of Akwa Ibom State to handle the case with kid gloves.

INSECURITY

It is no longer news that we have been noted globally and rated as the country with the worse case of insurgency, kidnap and victimization in the history of West Africa and our school children abduction story makes our matter even worse than has been recorded in recent times. Even more, the spate of military killings, farmer-herdsmen clashes resulting in the gruesome deaths of our productive population; religious intolerance leading to unending cold murder of Christian leaders in the northeast have all risen to the roof of our necks with unbearable painful distaste especially as our leaders continue to keep a deafening silence.

It was this silence which led to the staging of the #EndSARS protest last year against the brutality of the Police which sadly led to the death of innocent Nigerians whose only crime was the demand for a fair Nigeria. We recall painfully that the agitation which was later hijacked by hoodlums led to the death of one of our beloved members from Uyo Central Diocese who was returning from a meeting of the Church, Hon. Iniobong Lyons whom we're still grieving yet, we have not moved even an inch from where we were; our graduates are still littering the streets in search of menial jobs, men of the force are still victimizing those they are supposed to protect and governance has only turned worse. Recently, the tables seem to have turned; Police Stations are now being burnt down, officers murdered without a care while vandalism takes the centre stage. We now live in perpetual fear of the unknown as no one knows what would happen next. Our government must be awake to ensure that the labours of our heroes past are not in vain.

EDUCATION

Our education system has rather than improved, declined alarmingly in quality, moral instruction and result. It is saddening that the education offered in our schools and institutions cannot prepare our graduates in character and learning as required to function appropriately in respective offices.

AGRICULTURE

As a result of the occasional clashes between farmers and herdsmen, the farm produce gotten from the northeast has reduced thus, causing an increment in the prices of the little available once. Invariably, the final consumer is left with no option but to buy at whatever price they are given. This is why 2 cups of garri is being sold for N200 and Rice, N180; not to mention food items like yam, tomatoes, potato, onion and etc. Let me commend Governor Udom Emmanuel for his strides in the Agricultural sector which has boosted the activities of farmers in the state. I’ll however advocate that more should be done to quell the high cost of locally produced consumables in the State.

POVERTY

For a society where the need to purchase is greater than the means to purchase, it only points to the fact that the average Nigerian does not care about balancing his/her diet with the basic nutrients required but is more concerned about satisfying his/her hunger. As such, our people eat, fall sick and die of malnourishment and hunger.

HEALTH

Our health facilities are also a total failure else, our ruling elites would not run outside the shores of our country to seek medical attention when they can use the facilities they have so “improved” back home. Many health facilities around us are neither manageable nor functional due to poor funding. Our education system had long sagged and our legal system has become a commodity for the highest bidder.

EMPOWERMENT

We hear of this daily yet have felt it. Although there are testimonies of these empowerments, the question is, how is it done to ensure an even distribution? These are all questions begging for answers. Let me also commend the Governor of Akwa Ibom State for his conscious efforts at ensuring that youths of the State are empowered from time to time with intellectual skills and trainings for self-dependence and economic growth; while calling on the Federal Government to be more concise, fair and transparent with empowerment processes.

RECOMMENDATIONS

While we pray for a better Nigeria which we have always done, our leaders should for once come to the consciousness that they were elected or appointed by people who expect some sort of responsible action from them.

Nigeria is currently in dire need of security so our school, community, churches and borders should be fortified. It is high time government laid its feet firm against our antagonists and those who steal our joy and peace by raiding our communities, killing our men of valour and displacing us. Nigeria should be made to be a safe heaven for peaceful coexistence, development and harmony.

I strongly recommend the establishment of remedial security agencies and vigilante groups in each community/state, as exemplified by the Western and Eastern States of Nigeria. This is to prevent the daily invasion of our communities by "unknown" assailants and gunmen some of whom are disguised as men of the Police Force or the Nigerian Army. It's high time we stopped leaving our security in the hands of strangers rather, the people protecting our communities and borders should be those we know and can trust.

Our lives should be made to matter as enshrined in our constitution. Our youths must be listened to, aided and guided to shine their lights beyond boundaries. Our leaders must come to that point where they can also see that there is more to governance than politics and power. Things must be made to work and not faked to work else, we will remain in this gloom God forbid, forever.
But we will begin to chart the course of a new Nigeria when we heed these advices.

CONCLUSION

Gentlemen of the Press, members of the Church, friends and fellow Nigerians; the times are apparently unfriendly. As such, I urge you all to take security as your personal business. We must be vigilant and conscious of happenings around us, while ensuring to stay away from vices, ungodly deeds and unnecessary arguments even on social media with those we think we know. This is because the heart of man has become more sinister than ever.

We must not forget that heaven only helps those who help themselves so, we must take time to avoid certain “mistakes”.

Finally, there is no better time to activate our prayer life than this. Inasmuch as we have been praying before now, we must never relent in interceding for our State and Nation; our leaders across levels and our youths.
I share in the belief of a better Nigeria and I know that all of this will pass away. With God, all things shall be possible.

Thank You!
His Eminence, Dr Emmanuel Josiah Udofia
Primate of the African Church

ATI ANNANG FOUNDATION CONDEMNS THE GRUESOME MURDER OF MISS INIUBONG UMOREN

Ati Annang Foundation is sorely grieved over the reckless assault and gruesome murder of Miss Iniubong Umoren, 26 years old, a young and very fresh graduate of the University of Uyo from Oruk Anam Local Government Area, by one Mr. Uduak Frank Akpan, while responding to a purported job interview.

As a socio-cultural organisation, an umbrella group for Annang sons and daughters, it pains and hurts us deeply at the news and reality of the gruesome acts that led to the very untimely demise of our dear daughter and sister, a very promising seed of Annang land.

We, hereby, condemn, in strong terms, this outrageous, dastardly, barbaric and inhuman act orchestrated by heartless and mindless persons.

We thank all who kept vigil and those who worked technically and intellectually to ensure the arrest of the perpetrator of this heinous crime. Without the commitment and perseverance from all of you, the accosting of the barbaric monster would not have been possible.

We thank the Government and its relevant agencies for identifying with the family of the deceased, and for the assurance to leave no stone unturned.

Furthermore, it should be noted that such crime is not without accomplices, as such, every one involved in this heinous act, no matter how highly placed, should be made to face the full wrath of the law.While appreciating the police for their proactive steps in the arrest and interrogation of the culprit, we urge the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State, to be just in the full administration of justice to the culprit and all persons involved, and to ensure a holistic application of prescribed punishment.

We identify with the family of the deceased, the good people of Oruk Anam Local Government Area and Akwa Ibom State, as we mourn in this time of pain and deep hurt, and pray God to comfort and strengthen us all in this moment of indescribable pain, and grant the fortitude to bear this very painful loss.May the Lord grant her soul rest eternally.


Signed

Dr Gloria Wilson Inyang
Secretary General
Ati Annang Foundation

❌❌❌ AKSG SET TO ORGANISE FIRST-EVER WORKSHOP ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH STANDARDS

Akwa Ibom State Government (AKSG) through the Ministry of Environment is set to organize a first of its kind sensitization workshop for food and beverages operators in the state.

The Commissioner for Environment, Sir Charles Udoh disclosed this to journalists in his office yesterday. He said the idea of the workshop arose from the growing public concerns and complaints about the quality of environmental and health status of hotels, restaurants and eateries in the state.

The workshop which is organized in collaboration with the Nigerian Environmental Society (NES) will focus on food safety, environmental health and operational standards/requirements. At the end of the workshop, participants are expected to be well acquainted with global best practices in environmental health standards as well as specific requirements for Akwa Ibom State.

The Honorable Minister of Environment; Dr. Mohammad Mahmood Abubakar is expected to declare the workshop open.

The one-day programme which will attract over 400 participants drawn from food and beverages sector, will hold on Tuesday March, 30, 2021 at Watbridge Hotels and Suites, Uyo.

MEDIA UNIT
MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT
AKWA IBOM STATE

#MyEntrepreneurialGoal
#MAStoryPrize
#AkwaIbomtotheWorld

https://meflynanwana.com/how-to-make-money-from-vegetable-and-fruit-farming/

HOW TO MAKE MONEY FROM VEGETABLE FARMING AND FRUIT FARMING IN NIGERIA : THE SUCCESS STORY OF UDOKA INWANG

How to make money from vegetable and fruit farming in Nigeria is simple but you must give it the hours, to make it a reality. Udoka Inwang is the co-founder of Agribloom, an agribusiness enterprise. He is a business developer with over three years of experience working with over 30 start-ups across Nigeria to successfully help, ideate, build prototypes, launch and secure fundings. He is a 2018 Mandela Washington Fellow, a Tony Elumelu Entrepreneur and British Council business acceleration Bootcamp winner. Udoka is a graduate of Electronics and communication engineering from the University College Ghana and holds an MSc degree in Information and Communication Engineering.

Udoka Inwang is a Vegetable and Fruit Farmer and his story will inspire you to go into agriculture.

According to him, he ventured into agriculture while consulting for a Cameroonian farmer. He took interest in vegetable farming when he saw the number of jobs that can be created in the sector and began thinking of how to make money from vegetable and fruit farming in Nigeria. After a market survey, Udoka seeing the market void and volumes of tomato and other vegetable crops that were brought into the Southern part of Nigeria became alarmed and decided to produce the vegetables in Akwa Ibom state to get the products closer to the local market thereby reducing the post-harvest losses incurred during transportation and filling the void.

Vegetable farming is a money-spinner. Udoka says that if you spend a minimum of 2 million Naira on a one-hectare tomato farm during the rainy season, you will get over 1200 Cameroonian baskets of tomato going for a minimum of N5000 per basket between August and October, also going for a maximum of N7000 per basket. So you can get a net profit of 5 million naira from a 2 million investment. The profit margin for watermelon and cabbage farm is even higher!

Udoka says that the starting capital of Agribloom was 2 million naira because they started on two hectares of land planting Tomato and pepper. The funds were raised using the farmcrowdy model and by selling out equity shares.

The highpoints for Agribloom was contributing and enabling volumes of produce for domestic consumption in Akwa Ibom State between April to June 2020 during the lockdown that affected the quantities that do come in from other zones. Also within 9 months, Agribloom has gainfully employed 40 permanent staff and over 30 temporary staff, and currently, Agribloom has four farms: two in Ekeya, Okobo Lga and two at Idu-Uruan.

Agribloom is registered as a cooperative and the founders are working on getting a limited liability registration. The business has a top management structure consisting of the CEO, CTO, CFO, CMO and CSO. There are also farm managers, compliance officers and farm technicians, all with assigned roles and responsibilities.

Udoka is optimistic that Agribloom will produce more if Angel Investors or corporate organizations can enable scalability on a 20 hectares worth of farmland to cultivate and provide access to farm inputs like tractor, bulldozer and fertilizers.

Udoka advises anyone who is thinking about how to make money from vegetable and fruit farming in Nigeria to think of sustainable structures for long term running of their vegetable and fruit farms. He advocates for partnership with other farmers.

What else are you waiting for? The multi-million Naira Vegetable Farming sector is worth exploring!

#EntrepreneurFirstClass

GOVERNOR EMMANUEL PLEDGES MORE COMMITMENT TO REVAMP HEALTH SECTOR

...Donates medical equipment to Leprosy Hospital


Governor Udom Emmanuel has pledged to commit more resources towards revamping the health sector in the state.

The Governor disclosed this at the special service to commemorate the World Leprosy Day 2021 celebration at Qua Iboe Church Leprosy Hospital , Ekpene Obom, Etinan Local Government Area.

The Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Environment, Sir Charles Udoh said since 2015 the state has committed enough resources in renovating and revitalizing the health sector, promised to do more including the Qua Iboe Leprosy Hospital.


"Since 2015 , this administration has achieved a total turnaround in the health sector. The free healthcare policy of government has been sustained with massive infrastructure across the state".

The Governor thanked the management and staff for the smooth running of the facility and the community for sustaining the peace in the area.

Governor Emmanuel made donation of medical equipment to aid the management and student in running the hospital

Also speaking , the Medical Superintendent of the Hospital, Dr. Jeremiah Inyang Okoro used the occasion to thank His Excellency , Governor Emmanuel and his wife for his support through the provision of hospital infrastructure and monthly package to People Affected with Leprosy in the hospital .

He advocated for more public enlightenment in order to end stigmatization which he said is inline with this year's theme.


World Leprosy day is observed internationally every year on the last Sunday of January. It was first marked in 1954 to increase public awareness on the plight of People Affected with Leprosy.

This year's theme: "Beat Leprosy, End Stigma" featured special presentations by stateholders, songs and dance by patients and nurses

Dignitaries who graced the occasion included the SSA to the Governor on Health , Deaconess Dorothy Okoro,who was the chairman on the occasion , Commissioner for Health, represented by Dr. Etuk Antia, Chairman of Hospital Management Board, Elder Dr. Okon Emah , representative of General Superintendent/Chairman of Council , Area Superintendent , Etinan Area Conference, Qua Iboe Church, Rev. Dr. Godwin Ekong, Chairman of Trustee, Qua Iboe Church ,Abak Road, Elder Barrister Asang Udo amongst other dignitaries.

Participants of the 3rd batch of the My Entrepreneurship Goals Programme (MEGP) today embarked on a company tour as part of their course outline, to expose participants to the dynamics of the day to day running of a company.


The company tour saw the participants visit the Jubilee syringe manufacturing industries, Onna Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State where participants were exposed to practical dynamics of business operations.

The participants were led to the Jubilee Syringe Manufacturing Company by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Brand Marketing, Mr. Ime Uwah and the Special Assistant to the Governor on Entrepreneurship development, Mrs Meflyn Anwana.

At the company, the Products manager, Mr Faruk Shazad who took the Entrepreneurs on a guided tour of the facility said the company has a capacity of producing a million syringes per day. According to him, the company has plans to produce other medical consumables next year.

The Managing director of company, Mr. Akin Oyediran who interacted with the participants by answering series of questions on the success and challenges of the company commended the trainees for the exhibition of interest in doing business for themselves.
He challenged them to develop a business plan and review same weekly if they must succeed in their endeavors.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Marketing and Brand Management, Mr. Ime Uwah expressed delight that the Enterpreneurs have been able to see what they have been trained throughout the duration of the program in practice. He thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel for providing an enabling environment for businesses to thrive in the State and saluted the management of the company for receiving the Enterpreneurs on a facility visit.

Six finalists of the My Entrepreneurship Goals Programme (MEGP) today pitched their businesses for a chance to win up to 1 million Naira in business grants at the MEGP MSME Pitch Deck 2020 which held today.

Three contestants in each of the two categories (Early Start-up & Existing Business) made virtual presentations of the viability of their businesses to potential investors via Stream Yard, an online teleconferencing platform.

Winners of the pitch competition will be announced on Friday 18th December at the MEGP Batch III Certificate Presentation Dinner which will be held at Emerald Event Centre.

The MEGP MSME Pitch Deck 2020 was set up to provide financial assistance to qualified alumni of Batch I & Batch II of MEGP with outstanding business setup/expansion plans to help grow their business.

Activities marking the certification of the 200 participants of batch III of the MEGP will come to a crescendo on Friday, 18th December 2020 with the graduation dinner, holding at Emerald Events Centre, Edet Akpan Avenue, Uyo, by 5pm. At the event, the winners of the MEGP MSME Pitch Deck 2020 will be announced and prizes presented.

Breaking News:

Impressed with the sincere and deliberate steps taken by Governor Udom Emmanuel and commitment shown, the Federal Executive Council has granted final approval for the take off of Ibom Deep Seaport Project in Akwa Ibom State.

....details loading

#UdomisWorking
#AkwaIbomFirst

AKISIEC to conduct fresh election in Ward 11, Esit-Eket, Saturday

by Mfonobong Ukpong

Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission, AKISIEC is to conduct a fresh election into the Councillorship seat in Ward 11, Esit-Eket local government area on Saturday 7th November, 2020.

This follows the cancelation of the exercise by the electoral body as a result of some irregularities from the process of collation to the actual conduct of the election.

Featuring on a live radio interview, Monday on Comfort FM, Chairman of the commission, Elder Aniedi Ikoiwak explained that by taking over the conduct of elections from the Supervisor Presiding Officer the candidate of NRM ended up conducting the election for himself during the just concluded Saturday election.

The AKISIEC boss noted that the commission would not be a party to any electoral process that is not inline with the electoral law.

DE JOSEPH SUMMIT 2020: VITAL UPDATE ON EVENT STRUCTURE AND ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS

Our Dear hopeful participants, we find it apposite to share the proposed structure for our summit with you to further prepare your minds for what shall be served at the summit. Please peruse the event structure as attached below.

PLEASE NOTE that we are prepared to start the summit at 10 am prompt as advertised. Consequently please, participants should arrive the venue between 8:30 am to 9 am, all verification and entry procedures shall be concluded by 9:40 am and our doors shall close by 9:45 am and shall open only to the resource persons or already accredited participants who may be excused to answer natures call - we wish nature doesn't call at all for the hours we intend to spend at the summit.

Please participants must come with their phones or the device they got our invitation with - whether as a text message or an mail. Entry into the hall shall follow a two step verification process of presentation of the invitation message and a confirmation of name on our list of accredited participants.


Please there will be no need coming if you have not received your invitation message. The event will be live streamed on several online platforms - the links will be available tomorrow for this purpose, those who couldn't register will therefore be able to join us through the online routes. Our world today is apparently more virtual than "physical", I trust there will be no challenges joining us online.

NOTE FURTHER, that the event is not a casual event and for the purposes of our documentations, we will plead with participants to appear comfortable and in their best apparels. Such that would allow your brains to be active and indeed also allow others minds to be focused on the event content.

As a committee, we thank all those who registered, we thank all those who have partnered with us to make the event successful, at the stage of planning and we seek your cooperation, especially by early arrivals, to make the event itself a success.


Thank you and see you in 2 days at De Joseph Summit, 2020 at The Ibom Tropicanna Entertainment Centre, Uyo Akwa Ibom State.


Usoro Peters
Chairman, CPC
De Joseph Summit, 2020

DE JOSEPH SUMMIT 2020: INTRODUCING "THE SCALE" AND ITS FIRST GUEST


In the past three year's De Joseph Summit has been focused on generating ideas for state development. We have held conference on the themes; The New Akwa Ibom Project, The 31st Sense and Akwa Ibom Beyond Oil. The objective of those summits were to generate ideas and present them to the government for implementation. In 2019 for instance, The Akwa Ibom Beyond Oil summit focused and produced excellent ideas on education, science and technology and leadership. For instance, the summit suggested a general overhaul of the primary and secondary education curriculum to inculcate creativity and innovation in the minds of the pupils/students, some aspects of science and technology were flagged as veritable alternatives to the oil revenue. Government was encouraged to invest in those areas amongst other suggestions.

Regrettably however, the outcome of those summits have been low, hence our objectives were not met for up to 20%. Whereas we were pleased that the state Government, two weeks after our summit held the Education summit which highlighted some of the things highlighted in our summit and then went ahead to re-start the Ibom Science Park project which also aligned with our summit on Akwa Ibom Beyond Oil, we have decided to re-strategise and fashion our engagements in a way that will make for the achievement of our objectives of being a state think tank that the state would listen to.

Consequently we are introducing an item in our summit this year tagged THE SCALE which is a Public Accountability, Idea Sharing platform. We will have a Public Office Holder mount the scale for a period of 45 minutes. He shall be quizzed on his mandate depending on the office he is occupying, his ideas towards transforming his mandate to realities to make for good governance with developmental yields for the people of Akwa Ibom state, where he has been in the office for a rate-able period of time, he shall be asked what he has done so far and how he intends to do better.


IMPORTANTLY, MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC, PARTICIPANTS WILL BE GIVEN OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE IDEAS WITH THE PUBLIC OFFICE HOLDER THAT ARE RELEVANT TO HIS OFFICE AND SUCH IDEA WILL BE INTERROGATED BY THE PUBLIC OFFICE HOLDER THERE AND THEN AND IF PLAUSIBLE, WILL BE ADOPTED FOR IMPLEMENTATION.

We are optimistic that with this introduction, we will be able to solve one of the major problems that hinders the realization of our summit objectives - WRONG AUDIENCE AND INABILITY TO PUSH THE SUGGESTIONS MADE AT THE SUMMIT TO THE APPROPRIATE AUTHORITIES FOR IMPLEMENTATION. THIS TIME, THE APPROPRIATE AUTHORITY WILL BE PRESENT LIFE AT THE EVENT AND WILL TALK TO THE AUDIENCE AND BE TALKED TO "ONE ON ONE".


The Scale shall feature a Public Office Holder on a Quarterly Basis. For the debut edition of the Scale, we will have;

COMRADE INI EMEMOBONG
HONOURABLE COMMISSIONER, MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND STRATEGY, AKWA IBOM STATE.


1. Do you have questions you'd love to ask him about his ministry and plans for the ministry?

2. Do you have ideas that can assist him in the execution of his task in a manner that will make for the kind of government that you desire as a citizen of Akwa Ibom State?

3. Did you register for the summit?

Then send your questions or ideas to info.desephsocietyng@gmail.com or ekannemorgan@gmail.com.

Thank you.


Usoro Peters
Chairman, CPC
De Joseph Summit, 2020

DE JOSEPH SUMMIT 2020: UNVEILING OF THE FIRST PANELIST.


At this year's Summit, our intention is to provide a perfect blend of every kind of excellence through a careful selection of our resource persons.

From our theme, Facing the Future, we shall further narrow conversations into three sub-themes of politics and governance, business and mental renaissance with lead speakers who shall provide introductory but thorough thoughts on each of these areas.

INTRODUCING THE PANEL: REALITY CHECK

Interestingly however, our panel session shall be the real whisky. Tagged "The Reality Check" The panel shall interrogate and make practical deductions from all the presentations made by the lead speakers and shall draw the line down to the realities as it touches the youths in the areas of business, politics and thought orientations.

Guess who will be on our panel this year? Six solid and excellent personalities, first in their class, best of their kind:

PANELIST ONE AND AN INSIGHT INTO HIS AREA OF FOCUS ON THE PANEL

Borono Bassey shall share thoughts on the political and governance focus of the theme - did he plan to go into politics, what would he say accounts for his sudden rise in the business, can he give his formula or "his past questions" to other aspiring youths who would want to venture into politics, will it work for them, what are his plans for the office, to be like his immediate predecessor or to be better than him, is his political venturing and trajectory a positive "act of God", what is his response to the thoughts that all bright minds in Akwa Ibom are now venturing into politics, does he agree, is it right, has he ever been a thug?

CAN YOU GUESS THE OTHER PANELISTS AND THEIR FOCUS?


Usoro Peters
Chairman, Central Planning Committee

*Dakkada 5th Anniversary Awards*

Meet Our Adjudicators

2. Aniekan Usoroh


A business Administrator/Consultant, a Service delivery strategist, a Communications professional, a Prolific Speaker , Writer and Certified trainer, Aniekan Usoroh is an unrepentant optimist who believes that there is always an opportunity to do the extra to attain excellence. Aniekan’s professional background spans across FMCG, Banking and Finance Sector, Healthcare financing sector, Development sector and Revenue consultancy. An unrepentant optimist who believes that there is always a better way to get things done, He has over 18 years of corporate business ethics and experience.

A firm believer in the future of the nation, Nigeria and is committed to building Champions who will take their place in putting our nation back on track.

Aniekan is the Principal driver of The Pathway of Champions Initiative which focuses on the pursuit of excellence in every area of life and reaches out weekly online via his aniekanusoroh. blog. He is a mentor to many and coach to a lot of high performing individuals and organizations

He is the Director, Strategic Partnerships with the Young Entrepreneur Success Stories conference (#YESS) with a track record of Hosting success stories conference.

He is also the Managing Partner of ENANI Solutions which provides Organization Development strategies to organizations around Nigeria.

He recently served as the Head of the Corporate sector for the Lead Consultants to the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS)

He currently heads Business Development and Strategy for one of the leading HMOS in the Health Insurance/financing sector in Nigeria

Aniekan has certifications in Business Ethics, Development Finance, Revenue Lifecycle Manangement, Citizens Engagement, Project Management and Health Economics from different world-class institutions including the University of Ibadan, The University of Irvine California and the World Bank Institute

He is the convener of The Champions Summit, The Journey to Mastery Masterclass and SpeakXpress.

#DakkadaAt5
#Dakkada

*Dakkada 5th Anniversary Awards*

Meet Our Adjudicators

1. Nature Udoh

Nature Udoh, a serial entrepreneur, best known for creating the ‘’Akwa Ibom Ado Ok” award-winning brand, was born on the 17th April 1975. He grew up in Ikeja Police Barracks, the biggest and toughest Police barracks in Africa. His father, Denis Udoh, worked as a Policeman. His mother, Margaret, was employed as a Nurse. The Udohs family atmosphere was warm and close, and all five children were encouraged to be competitive and strive for excellence.

Nature Udoh was a voracious reader as a child, spending many hours poring over reference books such as the encyclopedia and students companion. Around the age of 11, Nature’s parents began to have concerns about his behavior. He was doing well in school, but he seemed hyperactive and troublesome at times, and his parents worried he might become a rebellious boy.

His parents were strong believers in public education, when Nature turned 6, they enrolled him at Ikeja Primary school where he passed with Distinction. He started his secondary education in 1987 at Omole grammar School, Lagos and was later transferred to Lutheran High school, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom. He blossomed in nearly all his subjects, excelling in math and sciences, but also doing very well in English. He completed his secondary education at St Mary’s science college, Ediene-Abak and gained admission into the University of Uyo to study Computer science.

Nature Udoh believes that Entrepreneurship isn’t just about unique ideas; it’s also about borrowing best practices and perfectly executing them. He work his way from one business to another, not merely sitting back and reaping the rewards of his past successes, but banking on his experience to start new ventures. In 2009 he founded Nature Udoh & The Gang, a brand consulting and print communication firm. He is the Chief Executive Waiter at Discovery Park, the biggest nature-friendly recreational facility in Akwa Ibom which he co-own with his wife. Nature Udoh have established himself in a diversified set of businesses, and his successes as well as his failures provide important lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Youth is the driving force of social change. Youth is believed to possess a strong desire for positive change and the capacity to generate creative ideas. By investing in those attributes, technically, Nature Udoh has contributed to the development of youth and their communities. He has empowered young people by providing them with real capacity building opportunities so that they become effective individuals in their community.

Nature Udoh, the most sort after social media influencer in the south south, Nigeria is an expert in branding, strategic planning, event production and management. His hobbies includes meeting people, reading, listening to Christian and motivationals messages and watching football ( a die-hard Chelsea fan).

He’s a good husband to Mfon Udoh and a proud father of EsseAbasi, AbasiAmami, AbasiAyaya, UfanAbasi and AsianAbasi.

#DakkadaAt5
#Dakkada

Dakkada 5th Anniversary Business & Leadership Awards: five exceptional finalists to receive cash prizes of 500,000 Naira each.

Courage Mbon

All is now set for the much anticipated Dakkada 5th Anniversary Business & Leadership Awards, an award aimed at recognizing, motivating and encouraging young persons who have shown outstanding achievements in various fields cutting across entrepreneurship, careers, community service among other areas endeavour.

The awards, organized to mark the 5th Anniversary of the Dakkada Initiative, a re-orientation drive of His Excellency Gov. Udom Emmanuel, is put together by the Directorate of Marketing & Brand Management, Governor’s Office, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Giving insight into the awards event, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Marketing & Brand Management, Mr. Ime Uwah said the event, would see five winners taking home a whooping N500,000
each, and that awardees would be selected from award categories of Entrepreneurship, Professionalism, Community Service, Advocacy, Creativity and Innovation.

Uwah noted that the nominees must be Akwa Ibomites between the ages of 18 to 40 years old, who have been productively engaged in the respective award categories for more than a year. Nominations can be made either by the nominees themselves or a third party. According to the Governor's Aide, the event which is billed to hold online via Webinar on the 23rd September 2020 would have nominees and the general public in attendance.

To support the Governor’s vision in encouraging excellence amongst the Youths, the various awards according to their categories, are sponsored by Her Excellency, Dr. Mrs. Martha Udom Emmanuel, for Advocacy, Ministry of Local
Government & Chieftaincy Affairs, for Community Service, Hensek Integrated Services, for Creativity & Innovation, Eni Group Limited, for Entrepreneurship and HTG Limited, for Professionalism.

To nominate, click on www.dakkada.ng/awards

DE JOSEPH SUMMIT 2019: JUST A BITE

In 2019 as we considered our theme, Akwa Ibom Beyond Oil, Mrs Isa emphasised the place of developing a functional curriculum for or in the quest towards graduating students, youths who would become problem solvers and not job seekers without more.

LISTEN TO HER THOUGHTS ON HARD SKILLS - ANALYTICAL REASONING BELOW AND HOW IT BECOMES USEFUL IN REALITY.

The 2020 edition of the summit is almost here, intending participants should make efforts to register at ~

http:///dejosephsummit2020 ~

Registration closes on September 20, 2020 and only registered participants shall be admitted into the hall, "BASED ON LOGISTICS."

Signed


Usoro Peters
Chairman, CPC
De Joseph Summit' 2020

Dakkada Cottage Industries Limited Opens soon.

The Akwa Ibom State owned Dakkada Cottage Industries, a conglomerate of factories producing household products is opening in a matter of days.
The model industries which has already been completed is presently being test run and will be inaugurated soon.

The Dakkada Cottage Industries Limited is another evidence that the completion Agenda is on course.

#Dakkada
#CompletionAgenda
#PromiseKept
#DakkadaCottageIndustries

DE JOSEPH SUMMIT 2020: INTRODUCING THE EVENT STRUCTURE

De Joseph Summit is a purely intellectual event and would readily pass for a boring talk (borrowing Kemfon Decade's lexicon). However to the intellectuals, those who understand that reasoning and critical thinking should precede any meaningful engagement in life, the Summit is arguably the most anticipated gathering of young minds in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. This year's event is structured as follows:

1. The Timing

The event is structured to last for a maximum of 4 hours from start to finish. The start time has been scheduled for 10 am and should without fail end at 2 pm. We are a time conscious society and we will do all that can be done to ensure that the event commences at 10 am. We had some challenges in this regard last year; our venue was used by some high school department for a social gathering and it affected our start time. We have carefully considered that setback in the choice of our venue for this year and we have an uncompromised access to our venue, a night before the event.

PARTICIPANTS ARE COMPULSORILY EXPECTED TO BE SEATED BEFORE 9:30 AM AS OUR DOORS WILL BE CLOSED AT 10 AM AND SHALL OPEN ONLY TO THE RESOURCE PERSONS.

Keep in mind that we shall only admit registered participants who shall be duly notified before the event date.

2. The Theme and Sub-Themes

The theme of the event is Facing the Future. This theme is inspired by the prevailing happenings in our world, actuated by the Covid 19 pandemic; the pandemic revealed inter alia that we may not all be prepared for some situations of life, businesses suffered, rich men died at home with their money as they could not travel, people lived without ice cream and luxury, states could not manage their cases and the world? it didn't stop. No one really knows tomorrow, but it is pertinent we prepare to face it, regardless of how it comes.

In our focus, the theme shall be broken down into three sub-themes of politics and governance, business, investment and entrepreneurship and finally mental and spiritual check.

These sub areas have therefore necessitated that we have three speakers, experts in the respective areas who shall lead pragmatic discussions on how to face the future, politically; engage in politics with value, engage in politics as a youth beyond facebook and thuggery, engage in politics for effective reward, how to build sustaining political structure and strategies as a youth, how to engage the future in our businesses; what kinds of investment to venture into, how to run a business brand effectively online and offline, how to move beyond survival to living as a youth in the Nigerian Economy and then also, how to think and react in preparation for the future - the mental and spiritual check.

Each of this segments will follow each other without breaks and each speaker will speak for 30 minutes and will take questions where there is any for about 5 minutes max.

We will begin with the business slant and the proceed to the mental check and land on the political front.

3. The Social Break

Immediately after the last speaker, we shall have a social break where we will share refreshments and then be thrilled by two solo performances. Participants will be allowed to stretch on around their seats. This will last for 10 minutes.


4. The Panel

This panel comprises six of Akwa Ibom's best minds. There were carefully selected to balance the sub-theme areas of business, politics and mental check. There shall bring in very practical approaches to embellish the presentation of the lead speakers.

It is in this segment that we will highlight the challenges, opportunities, prospects and drawbacks (of) for an Akwa Ibom youth living, doing business, participating in politics in Akwa Ibom State. This segment shall last for about 45 minutes.

5. The Scale

This segment is the newest introduction into the catalogue of creative fruits of De Joseph Society Nigeria and will be having its debut guest at the summit.

The Scale is a public accountability, mind sharing and shaping platform for public office holders. The public office holder shall be on the stand to enlighten the people on his or her policies, actions, plans, agenda towards the realisation of the mandate of his office. The personality shall also recieve first hand ideas from Josephites on the mandate of his office.

This platform will not only afford the public an opportunity to learn the policies and actions of the Public Office holder on the stand but will also open up conversations for a better delivery by the public officer.

This will also solve one perennial problem that we have faced as a society; the continuous generation of ideas without the ability to pass it on to the authorities that can implement them. With The Scale, the appropriate authority will be in sight to hear the suggestions of the Josephites on whatever issue he or she would raise.

This segment shall last for 50 minutes

6. Presentation of Certificate of Participation, Awards and Certificates of Good Conducts for Early arrivals and intentional participation.

The certificate of participation shall be presented at the exit point at the close of event. Everyone will be expected to leave in the order as shall be directed by the protocol team. The awards shall be presented by the speakers, one to each and the certificate of good conduct for early arrivals shall be given at the end of the summit too to deserving participants.

7. Time Check

From the foregoing breakdown of the event and the time allotted for each segment, the event has been planned to run out within 3 hours 45 minutes. We assure that instead of an increase, there can be an decrease in this time schedule.

Pictures and other media routines would be taken after the event and that is solely at the discretion of the participants, how long they spend on that will not be on us.

WATCH OUT FOR THE UPDATE ON THE SPEAKERS, PANELISTS AND THE GUEST ON THE SCALE IN THE COMING DAYS. KINDLY REGISTER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, REGISTRATION MAY CLOSE SOONER THAN EARLIER PROPOSED.

Signed

Usoro Peters
Chairman, Central Planning Committee

Gov’s Aide Attacked for being Non-Indigene


...Etoro Umoh fingered!


The Special Assistant to Governor Udom Emmanuel on Mobilisation, Mr Felix Ekuri was on Saturday, August 1, attacked by hoodlums suspected to have been hired by one Etoro Umoh.

The attack was launched on the victim during the commissioning of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) permanent secretariat in Uyo, the State capital.

At the commissioning, it was gathered that the kingpin, Etoro Umoh tried to block the Governor's convoy from accessing the event venue. He was however resisted by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Mobilisation, Felix Ekuri.

The antagonist again made a pass at the aide after the Governor had taken his seat, and attacked him with weapons, with his team of regrouped boys. According to an eyewitness, a member of the ‘Only God’ protocol squad was thoroughly beaten and bruised.

In a related development, one Imaikop Linus, a delegate from Ibiono Ibom, has accused the same Governor’s aide, Felix Ekuri, of attacking him at the Nest of Champions, venue for the inauguration of the State PDP executive which took place on Thursday, July 30.
Ekuri who debunked the claim when asked reported that nothing of such happened. “But I can recall vividly that a man was slapped by the men of the DSS attached to Government House. When I noticed anomalies at the entrance from a distance, I walked straight to the point and on reaching there a certain man I don't think I've met started shouting at me; that I witnessed him manhandled by the DSS without protecting him", he said.

Speaking to this reporter on Telephone, an eye witness to the two scenes, Comrade Godwin Edet confirmed Ekuri’s testimony and expressed shock at why some persons would resort to envy and persecution of others. He further described the allegations as an expression of hatred for the aide’s elevation.

The leadership of Governor Emmanuel has been an all-inclusive one with no segregation in race, tribe or gender. The State leader appoints those he knows will be of help to his Completion Agenda bid.

Akwa Ibom State Government has distributed 500,000 cocoa seedlings and other agro-based farming inputs to Cocoa farmers in the state.

The exercise which marks the flag-off of this year's Cocoa planting season is in line with the determination of the State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel to boost Agriculture towards ensuring food security and sufficiency for the people of the state.

The Commmissioner for Agriculture and Women Affairs, Dr. Glory Edet, made the presentation today, Tuesday 16th June, 2020 on behalf of Governor Udom Emmanuel at the Odoro Ikpe, Ini LGA Cocoa nursery farm.

Dr. Glory Edet who said Governor Udom Emmanuel was poised at ensuring abundance in Cocoa production in the state disclosed that, Akwa Ibom has the best variety of Cocoa in Nigeria coupled with arable land favorable for cocoa production which is a major cash crop in the country and indeed globally.

She said as a measure towards boostjng Cocoa production in the state, the Governor has flagged - off the cocoa seedling distribution in this month of June, which is the best planting season for cocoa adding that agro chemicals are also distributed to the farmers to ward of pests while fertilizers and sprayers have also been provided to the cocoa farmers to increase their yeilds.

At the event were Stakeholders in the Agricultural sector of the state and Cocoa farming in particular including: the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. John Markson, the Director of Agriculture, Mr. Emmanuel Akpan the Supervisor for Agriculture in Ini LGA, Prince Mike Ekanem and the State Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, ALFAN, Otoinwang Bassey Inyang who presented a goodwill message.

In their seperate reactions, the Village head of Ikpe Ikot Nkon, Eteidung Ndueso Bassey Udowo, and two cocoa farmers, Chief Monday Solomon Udoh from Ikoi Eben Obon and Mrs. Uduak Aniekan Akpan from Odoro Ikpe, all of Ini LGA, expressed appreciation to Governor Udom Emmanuel for his love and interest in Cocoa farmers as demonstrated in the provision of free improved cocoa seedlings and farming inputs to them.

In a related development, the President of Ekemini Co-operative Cassava farm in Odoro Ikpe, Ini LGA, Elder ObongAnwan Idara Ekpe, has expressed gratitude to Governor Udom Emmanuel on behalf of the women of the Ekemini Cooperative Society for the provision of improved cassava cuttings and other farming inputs for the women to boost their cassava cultivation.

ObongAnwan Idara Ekpe who led the State Government Information Team this morning round the 18 hectares of Cassava plantation cultivated by the Ekemini Cooperative Cassava farmers said, the State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has proved himself as a promise keeping Governor by providing all the inputs he promised farmers in the state towards giving them a means of livelihood through farming and also ensuring availability of food for the teeming people of Ini LGA and indeed Akwa Ibom State.

The State Government Information Management Team led by the Director of Information, Akparawa James Edet and the Secretary of the team, Mr. Aniekeme Finbarr, had in attendance, the Director of Public Relations, Ministry of Information, Mrs. Grace Akpan, SA, ICT, Mr. Solomon Eyo, SA Research and Documentation, Mr. Essien Ndueso, SA Media, Revd Richard Peters, Asst Director, Ikot Ekpene zone of Ministry of Information, Mr. Aniekan Ukpong and the Assistant Chief Information Officer, Mr Idris Mabadeje.

#GovUdomisWorking!!!

The Akwa Ibom State Government is to open the 21 Storey smart building for business by the end of this year.

This was made known by the Commissioner for Special Duties, Rt. Hon. Okpolupm Etteh while conducting the State Government Information Management Team led by the Commissioner for Information on a facility tour of the 21 storey building at the Central Business District of Uyo, Wednesday.

Rt. Hon Etteh said work has almost been completed in the interior component of the complex which has office spaces in almost all the floors, with some measuring 600 Sq meters, others 300 Sq meters as well as 150 Sq meters for various categories of corporate organisations and business outfits.

The Special Duties Boss said, "this Intelligence building which is completely ICT complaint has a Vsat on the roof which makes the entire complex connected to the internet", adding that "as you can see, all the floors and all the fixtures including lighting, smoke detectors, lift, chillers, water sprinklers and sewage evacuation are all fully automated."

Etteh who expatiated the five year free tenancy deal the government is offering, however said any company given the facility, must show proof that it can rent the facility, adding that it is not for just any company without recognised financial capability.

He said with three 800 KVA standby generators and two transformers to link the complex to the national grid through the Ibom Tropicana axis of the city, the 21 storey architectural masterpiece is operated with energy serving control mechanism and a 24 hour power supply.

Reiterating that work on the tallest building in the South/South region of Nigeria is at 85 percent completion, Rt. Hon Etteh said, already five high brow international companies have indicated interest to occupy parts of the office spaces while government is soon to advertise for interested banks and caterers to occupy the seven spaces alloted for banks and the restaurants within the building.

The Commissioner said being a smart building, access into the premises would be automated as all visitors can only gain entry with coded access cards linked directly to the floors indicated by the visitors while bomb bearers will also be activated for added safety and security within the premises.

Rt. Hon Etteh said a drivers' bay, is soon to be constructed within the premises which is completely under CCTV surveillance and has provisions for a - 500 capacity parking lot and a helipad, which would soon be constructed.

"With a well treated domestic water supply machine in place, a censor control, with all floors provided with kitchenettes coupled with a sit- out eatry within the complex, everything has been put in place to ensure the comfort of all end users of the complex."

On sustainable and maintenance of the Complex beyond the life of the present administration, Rt. Hon Etteh said, "government is to engage the services of a Maintenance Contractor with an annual retainership agreement such as is done in other high brow public utilities of government like the Four Point by Sheraton and the Nest of Champions, to ensure proper maintenance of the facility."

Speaking on local content in the facility, the Commissioner said, professionals from the Ministry of Special Duties including Engineers, Architects and Estate Valuers are regularly being trained by the expatriates working on the facility with the aim of achieving technology transfer and skills necessary to boost operations of the Intelligence office complex.

At the moment, external work is gaining momentum, the security post as well as the entry and exit points of the complex also nearly completed.

The Commissioner who was accompanied on the tour by the Permanent Secretary, Engr Richard Ekpe, the Site Engr. Dougukan and Project consultant, Arc Ekanwan Alale, commended the Government Information Management Team for embarking on the on-the - spot assessment tour of the 21 storey smart building emphasizing that it will enable the team feed the public on facts about the functionality and stage of work at the complex.

The facility tour of government projects continues as the Akwa Ibom State Government Information Management Team led by the Commissioner for Information, Sir Charles Udoh heighten momentum on awareness creation on the giant strides of Governor Udom Emmanuel in the past 5 years of his administration.

#UdomisWorking
The Akwa Ibom State Government is to open the 21 Storey smart building for business by the end of this year.

This was made known by the Commissioner for Special Duties, Rt. Hon. Okpolupm Etteh while conducting the State Government Information Management Team led by the Commissioner for Information on a facility tour of the 21 storey building at the Central Business District of Uyo, Wednesday.

Rt. Hon Etteh said work has almost been completed in the interior component of the complex which has office spaces in almost all the floors, with some measuring 600 Sq meters, others 300 Sq meters as well as 150 Sq meters for various categories of corporate organisations and business outfits.

The Special Duties Boss said, "this Intelligence building which is completely ICT complaint has a Vsat on the roof which makes the entire complex connected to the internet", adding that "as you can see, all the floors and all the fixtures including lighting, smoke detectors, lift, chillers, water sprinklers and sewage evacuation are all fully automated."

Etteh who expatiated the five year free tenancy deal the government is offering, however said any company given the facility, must show proof that it can rent the facility, adding that it is not for just any company without recognised financial capability.

He said with three 800 KVA standby generators and two transformers to link the complex to the national grid through the Ibom Tropicana axis of the city, the 21 storey architectural masterpiece is operated with energy serving control mechanism and a 24 hour power supply.

Reiterating that work on the tallest building in the South/South region of Nigeria is at 85 percent completion, Rt. Hon Etteh said, already five high brow international companies have indicated interest to occupy parts of the office spaces while government is soon to advertise for interested banks and caterers to occupy the seven spaces alloted for banks and the restaurants within the building.

The Commissioner said being a smart building, access into the premises would be automated as all visitors can only gain entry with coded access cards linked directly to the floors indicated by the visitors while bomb bearers will also be activated for added safety and security within the premises.

Rt. Hon Etteh said a drivers' bay, is soon to be constructed within the premises which is completely under CCTV surveillance and has provisions for a - 500 capacity parking lot and a helipad, which would soon be constructed.

"With a well treated domestic water supply machine in place, a censor control, with all floors provided with kitchenettes coupled with a sit- out eatry within the complex, everything has been put in place to ensure the comfort of all end users of the complex."

On sustainable and maintenance of the Complex beyond the life of the present administration, Rt. Hon Etteh said, "government is to engage the services of a Maintenance Contractor with an annual retainership agreement such as is done in other high brow public utilities of government like the Four Point by Sheraton and the Nest of Champions, to ensure proper maintenance of the facility."

Speaking on local content in the facility, the Commissioner said, professionals from the Ministry of Special Duties including Engineers, Architects and Estate Valuers are regularly being trained by the expatriates working on the facility with the aim of achieving technology transfer and skills necessary to boost operations of the Intelligence office complex.

At the moment, external work is gaining momentum, the security post as well as the entry and exit points of the complex also nearly completed.

The Commissioner who was accompanied on the tour by the Permanent Secretary, Engr Richard Ekpe, the Site Engr. Dougukan and Project consultant, Arc Ekanwan Alale, commended the Government Information Management Team for embarking on the on-the - spot assessment tour of the 21 storey smart building emphasizing that it will enable the team feed the public on facts about the functionality and stage of work at the complex.

The facility tour of government projects continues as the Akwa Ibom State Government Information Management Team led by the Commissioner for Information, Sir Charles Udoh heighten momentum on awareness creation on the giant strides of Governor Udom Emmanuel in the past 5 years of his administration.

#UdomisWorking
The Akwa Ibom State Government is to open the 21 Storey smart building for business by the end of this year.

This was made known by the Commissioner for Special Duties, Rt. Hon. Okpolupm Etteh while conducting the State Government Information Management Team led by the Commissioner for Information on a facility tour of the 21 storey building at the Central Business District of Uyo, Wednesday.

Rt. Hon Etteh said work has almost been completed in the interior component of the complex which has office spaces in almost all the floors, with some measuring 600 Sq meters, others 300 Sq meters as well as 150 Sq meters for various categories of corporate organisations and business outfits.

The Special Duties Boss said, "this Intelligence building which is completely ICT complaint has a Vsat on the roof which makes the entire complex connected to the internet", adding that "as you can see, all the floors and all the fixtures including lighting, smoke detectors, lift, chillers, water sprinklers and sewage evacuation are all fully automated."

Etteh who expatiated the five year free tenancy deal the government is offering, however said any company given the facility, must show proof that it can rent the facility, adding that it is not for just any company without recognised financial capability.

He said with three 800 KVA standby generators and two transformers to link the complex to the national grid through the Ibom Tropicana axis of the city, the 21 storey architectural masterpiece is operated with energy serving control mechanism and a 24 hour power supply.

Reiterating that work on the tallest building in the South/South region of Nigeria is at 85 percent completion, Rt. Hon Etteh said, already five high brow international companies have indicated interest to occupy parts of the office spaces while government is soon to advertise for interested banks and caterers to occupy the seven spaces alloted for banks and the restaurants within the building.

The Commissioner said being a smart building, access into the premises would be automated as all visitors can only gain entry with coded access cards linked directly to the floors indicated by the visitors while bomb bearers will also be activated for added safety and security within the premises.

Rt. Hon Etteh said a drivers' bay, is soon to be constructed within the premises which is completely under CCTV surveillance and has provisions for a - 500 capacity parking lot and a helipad, which would soon be constructed.

"With a well treated domestic water supply machine in place, a censor control, with all floors provided with kitchenettes coupled with a sit- out eatry within the complex, everything has been put in place to ensure the comfort of all end users of the complex."

On sustainable and maintenance of the Complex beyond the life of the present administration, Rt. Hon Etteh said, "government is to engage the services of a Maintenance Contractor with an annual retainership agreement such as is done in other high brow public utilities of government like the Four Point by Sheraton and the Nest of Champions, to ensure proper maintenance of the facility."

Speaking on local content in the facility, the Commissioner said, professionals from the Ministry of Special Duties including Engineers, Architects and Estate Valuers are regularly being trained by the expatriates working on the facility with the aim of achieving technology transfer and skills necessary to boost operations of the Intelligence office complex.

At the moment, external work is gaining momentum, the security post as well as the entry and exit points of the complex also nearly completed.

The Commissioner who was accompanied on the tour by the Permanent Secretary, Engr Richard Ekpe, the Site Engr. Dougukan and Project consultant, Arc Ekanwan Alale, commended the Government Information Management Team for embarking on the on-the - spot assessment tour of the 21 storey smart building emphasizing that it will enable the team feed the public on facts about the functionality and stage of work at the complex.

The facility tour of government projects continues as the Akwa Ibom State Government Information Management Team led by the Commissioner for Information, Sir Charles Udoh heighten momentum on awareness creation on the giant strides of Governor Udom Emmanuel in the past 5 years of his administration.

#UdomisWorking

-The Ibom Specialist Hospital (ISH) was established in 2015 by the previous administration to provide advanced specialty services to patients from Akwa Ibom region and other parts of Nigeria.

-The total amount of money disbursed for the ISH from the state fund was N41billion whereas, the structure put up is worth just N7billion. The remaining N34billion have remained unaccounted for till date.

-The multi-specialty hospital which “is a five-storey edifice with an underground block that connects to the administrative block and mortuary” was supposed to have a tunnel linking buildings within the Hospital premises and a guest house where relatives of patients can stay for the duration of their Ward’s treatment. This justifies the huge amount of money allocated which has obviously been stomached.

-The ISH became non-operational, an eyesore and subsequently, an abandoned project prior to the close of the previous administration.

-The present administration inherited the ISH with a completed ground floor, frontal view and the exteriors while the first floor was leaking with water emanating from the floor. Moreso, the Governor Udom Emmanuel-led administration inherited the ISH without a roof, theatre or dialysis machine except for few beds, one CT scan machine and one MRI machine.

-Some of the said “640 CT Scanners, digital mammography, endoscopy surgery, highly sophisticated intensive care units and medical gas plants” acquired by the past administration were no where to be found when the present administration took over the place. The Health Commissioner who listed out the missing equipment had shown the list to the former Governor Akpabio who had promised to ensure their recovery and return, but to no avail. The Udom Emmanuel government was left with no choice but to procure these missing equipment and newer ones to equip the hospital to become functional and of standard as it is now.
Till date, the state is still trying her best to update the hospital with standard equipment from available sources.

-The present world-class theatres, best-in-class dialysis machines, radiography machine, emergency theatre, electric blanket and blood warmer, well-equipped intensive care units, brand new 500KVA generator and ambulance were procured courtesy of the Governor Udom Emmanuel-led administration plus a completed standard roofing worth over N50m.

-The Specialty Hospital’s COVID-19 unit has been earmarked the best in the country due to its sophistication provided by the present administration.

-The ISH would be one of the forgotten projects in the state without the intervention of the Governor Udom Emmanuel-led administration.
Udom is working!

Uyo State Lawmaker Rt. Hon. Anietie Eka uses Hummer 2 to distribute palliative to it's constituent, this is due to the ongoing lockdown in Akwa Ibom to curtail the spread of the novel COVID-19 pandemic...

RELOCATE THE DUMP SITE ALONG UYO VILLAGE ROAD - Hon (Barr) Otobong Bob

The member representing Nsit Ubium State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon (Barr) Otobong E. Bob, has called for the relocation of the dump site along Uyo Village Road in view of the health hazard it poses to residents of Uyo metropolis.

In a motion brought before the House today, Thursday January 23, 2020, the Chairman of the House Committee on Rules, Business, Ethics and Privileges noted that global best practices and environmental experts recommend that landfills/dump sites should be located far away from city centres and residential areas and that dump sites should be lined and walled to prevent leakage into the soil, sources of water and air.

Hon (Barr) Bob in the motion brought pursuant to Order 111 Rule 1 of the Standing Orders of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Sixth Edition informed his colleagues that the dump site in reference violated all the above mentioned requirements.

He pointed out that all categories of waste are dumped at the site without control adding that these include organic, solid, semi solid, decomposed matter hospital waste and more.

The Nsit Ubium representative said that the site oozes out putrid stench which pollutes the air around its environs including Government House, Uyo Local Government Council Secretariat, the Judiciary Headquarters, High Courts in the neighborhood, the 'A' Division of the Nigerian Police Force and other such facilities within Wellington Bassey Way and the adjoining streets.

He observed that rain water washes the dump site down into the stream, a source of drinking water flowing down from the ravine to Nduetong village and surrounding communities.

Hon (Barr) Otobong Bob posited that the dump site is a nuisance, an eyesore, a social embarrassment and defiles the aesthetics of the state capital.

He submitted that there is the need to engage the services of experts to manage wastes in partnership with the agency established for that purpose in line with global best practices, a situation which could turn waste to economic gain and income/employment generating venture.

Hon (Barr) Bob prayed the state Governor to order the immediate removal and relocation of the dump site from Uyo Village Road and that the Akwa Ibom State Government should engage the services of waste management experts to manage waste in Uyo and other urban centres in the state in partnership with the state government under a memorandum of understanding and under the supervision of a relevant body set up for that purpose.

The Speaker referred the motion to the House Committee on Environment and Natural Resources and to report back in one month.

US PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP HAS BEEN IMPEACHED :

The US president has been impeached by the House of Representatives, becoming only the third US president to suffer the great dishonor and bringing him a step closer to being removed from office.

Two articles of impeachment were passed over his behaviour in the Ukraine scandal - one for abuse of power and the other for obstruction of Congress.

Not a single Republican voted for either article - a fact the White House seized on to portray the Democrats’ impeachment drive as motivated by political bias.
Mr Trump was not in Washington for the vote

The issue will now pass to the Senate, the other body that makes up the US Congress, which will hold a trial on whether to convict and remove Mr Trump from office next month.

But given the Republicans - Mr Trump’s party - hold the Senate majority and two thirds of senators would need to vote for removal it is very unlikely to happen.

Even so, impeachment creates a permanent black mark on Mr Trump’s political legacy that he shares with only two past presidents - Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton.

Addressing cheering supporters at a rally in Battle Creek, Michigan, as the House delivered its historic verdict, Mr Trump was dismissive and defiant.

"They've been trying to impeach me from day one," Trump said.
"After three years of sinister witch hunts, hoaxes, scams, tonight, House Democrats are trying to nullify the ballots of tens of millions of patriotic. He lamented.

"ATTENTION ATTENTION ATTENTION"

There's an ongoing controversy on social media regarding a post with the tag "Another Lagos Returnee".

It has been brought to our notice that Senator Effiong Bob's social media account has been hacked by fraudsters which resulted in the said write-up found on his page.

The post which is believed to have been orchestrated by politically unstable and hungry fraudsters is aimed at indicting the personality of Senator Effiong Bob, and scoring cheap political points ahead of the 2023 elections in the state.

Specifically, the piece authored by Gideon Ekere on "Lekki and home grown politicians" has been the tool twisted by the culprits against the Senator.

It is pertinent to note that Senator Effiong Bob has no issue with anyone contesting an election - it is the fundamental right of every member of the Uyo senatorial district to do so if, eligible.

The general public is hereby informed to disregard the munched post made to tarnish the image of the Senator by the mudslingers as the senator will under no
circumstance make such proclamations on the internet space.

OVER 150 TEACHERS IN AKWA IBOM STATE SECONDARY SCHOOLS TO FACE TOUGH TIMES

...as Education monitoring Team intensifies spot- checks in Schools

In her avowed commitment to ensuring that her free and compulsory Education for primary and Secondary School Children in the State is qualitative enough, the Akwa Ibom State Government under the leadership of Governor Udom Emmanuel has again, frowned at Teachers with poor attitude to work, while promising to end loitering in Schools. Consequently, over 150 Teachers culpable of lateness and absenteeism have been recommended for sanctions.

However, the Governor's office Education monitoring team led by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Education Monitoring - Mrs Idongesit Etiebet, restated the Governor's commitment to education on Tuesday, November 26, 2019, while addressing Teachers and Students during an on-the-spot Check to Schools in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital.

The Team which also consisted of the representative of the Education Commissioner - Barr Mrs Attih, NAPTAN Chairman - Elder Ataide and Governor's Aide on Research and development - SA Essien Ndueso, paid unscheduled visits to Cornelia Cornelley College - Afaha Oku, Offot Ukwa Secondary School and Primary School Mbierebe Obio where they monitored school resumption time, conduct of Morning devotion as well as review records and Movement books.

In every school visited, the monitoring team which arrives notorious schools before 7.30am, takes part in the early morning devotion and counsels Students and pupils on the need to shun Cultism and other social vices capable of destroying their future. Though a greater percentage of Students as observed by the monitoring team arrive school late, all Students who arrived school after 8.00am promised to turn a new live through the undertakings administered to all victims of lateness.

Meanwhile, the team which also discovered some irregularities in the record and movement books for Teachers, frowned at Principals and Head Teachers who create room for lateness and absenteeism without sanctions. Etiebet who presided over brief meetings held with Teachers, called on them to be role models, stressing that the responsibilities of Teachers are not just to teach in classes, but to be role models outside the class rooms and the society at large. The Governor's Aide while reiterating the Governor's interest in the education sector, also disclosed that the Governor has zero - tolerance for unprofessionalism. Etiebet charged principals to submit names of Teachers who arrived school after 8.00am to her office, for onward submission to the Governor's desk for sanctions. As at the time of filing this report, more than 150 names of Teachers were pencilled down for sanctions.

Recall that in the last one month, several Schools have been visited by state Government's education monitoring team in about 10 Local government areas. While a total number of 71 Students were recently placed on indefinite suspension by the State Government for gross misconduct. From information gathered, the spot- Check promises to be a continuum.

Emma Akpabio

FEYReP Intensifies Campaign against Teenage Pregnancy

In continuation of its advocacy/sensitization campaign for teenage girls in secondary schools across the state against premarital sexual relationships and teenage pregnancy, the Family Empowerment and Youth Reorientation Path-initiative (FEYReP), Friday, visited Cornelia Connelly College, Afaha Oku, Uyo.

Leading the team was the wife of the State Governor and founder of FEYReP, Her Excellency, Dr. (Mrs.) Martha Udom Emmanuel.

The campaign tagged "Girls Uphold Your Dignity", afforded the school girls the opportunity to hear first-hand from the governor's wife who graduated from the institution about 33 years ago.

Dr. Emmanuel while interacting with the girls on the topic: "Consequences of premarital sex", admonished the students against indulging in sexual escapades early in life.

She said abstinence remains the only option for them at this early stage in life, stating that "sex was ordained by God for mature people in marriage."

The First Lady, who cautioned the students against engaging in unruly behaviour that could be detrimental to their future, added that as young girls they were expected to subdue inordinate feelings whenever it arise.

"Don’t succumb to peer-pressure. Be self-conscious and have self-control over your feelings. The power to suppress it is within you," she remarked.

While advising the female students to be cautious of sexual predators in their respective areas and report to authorities in case of any abuse, the governor's wife encouraged them to study hard and be focused in life, as these were the prerequisite for a successful life.

Earlier, the principal of the college, Mrs. Grace Ekwere in her welcome address, thanked the governor's wife for visiting her alma-mata, saying they were honoured to have her in their presence.

She saluted the interest of the First Lady in raising the girl-child in the right way and stated that her coming to the school will motivate the students to maintain a high moral standard.

Also speaking, the coordinator of FEYReP, Mrs. Ime Ephraim Inyang while addressing the students, said the campaign is shifting the paradigm by advocating for complete abstinence from premarital sex.

Inyang reiterated the need for the girl-child to uphold her dignity, stating it was pertinent they concentrate on their studies.

Resource persons, Mrs. Aniebiet Akpan, who spoke on the topic “The girl-child and personal hygiene”, Pastor Utibe Eno who spoke on “Drug abuse and cultism,” and Barr. Sylvia Joshua who spoke on the topic "Rape: domestic violence and the consequences", advised the female students to stay away from drugs and cultism, ensure a healthy living by keeping their body and surroundings clean and as well avoid friends with negative influence.

They all encouraged the girls to take pride in being a girl child and added that they were beautifully and wonderfully made by God for wonderful works.

There was a question and answer segment where the governor's wife gladly responded to various questions raised by the students.

(C)Koko Udonquak
15th November, 2019