Awesome! Akwa Ibom to the world!

Anambra State Government in collaboration with Descendants Fortune Ltd presents Anambra Christmas Village 2024 Logo Competition.

Calling artists, designers, and creative minds! This is your moment to shine!

Join the Anambra Christmas village logo competition.

Theme: People, SOLUtions, and the Magic of Christmas

Submission Deadline: Friday, September 13, 2024.
Winners will be announced on Monday, September 16, 2024.

How to Enter:

- Design a logo that embodies the excitement and charm of the Anambra Christmas Village in line with the theme.

- Submit your design in a high-resolution format to anambrachristmasvillage@gmail.com

- Include your name, contact details, and a brief description of your design concept.

Amazing Prizes to be Won!

🏆 1st Place: ₦250,000 + Your logo will be the face of the Anambra Christmas Village 2024!
🎁 2nd Place: ₦150,000
✨ 3rd Place: ₦100,000

Open to all Anambrarians at home and in the Diaspora.

Terms and conditions apply.

For more information, visit www.anambrachristmasvillage.com

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this festive celebration! Show us your creativity and help make this year’s Anambra Christmas Village unforgettable!

#AnambraChristmasVillage

More photos

...doles out Millions of Naira worth of cash and empowerment items

In fulfillment of his campaign promise of regularly interfacing with his constituents, the member representing Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rep Emmanuel Ukpong-udo today staged the fifth phase of Empowerment during a Constituency Briefing. The event which took place at the Methodist Central School, Ikot Odu Ndiya in Ikono LGA had in attendance the political class, the traditional institutional, the clergy, party faithful, women and youth groups as well as teeming supporters of the Federal Lawmaker.

Setting the tone for the event, the Chairman of the Occasion, and head of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Service Commission, Barr. Goddy Umoh, said this was the first time an empowerment of this magnitude was held in the annals of Ikono/Ini. He stressed that on the basis of his superior performance, Rep Ukpong-udo was deserving of a second term in office. He commended Ukpong-udo for his gargantuan strides in 32 months, reiterating that he had made the constituency, the party and the the State at large very proud.

In his address, Rep Emmanuel Ukpong-udo thanked Ikono/Ini people for their support as far, stating that the event was a grassroot and localised event occasioned by the need to render an account of his stewardship to the people. He reiterated that he was committed to ensuring that a life touching project is situated in every ward in the constituency before his first term elapses. The lawmaker admonished the beneficiaries of the empowerment items to make maximal use of them while suing for patience from those yet to benefit. He disclosed that a bigger empowerment event was billed for the fourth and last quarter of the year.

Several goodwill messages poured in for Rep Ukpong-udo from well meaning stakeholders and constituents. These included the Deputy Chapter Chairman, Isantim Ernest Bassey; the Chaiman of Ikono Ward Elders Council, Sir Mike Ene; the Director General, Mkpoikana-Abasi Campaign Organisation, Barr. Edet Inyangidima as well as the Clan Head of Ndiya, Etebom Godswill Udoisang.
Others who spoke glowingly of their Representative were the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Petroleum Matters, Sir Victor Etefia; the Chairman of Ini Local Government Area, Elder Israel Idaisin and his Ikono Local Government Area counterpart, Hon. Nyaknno Okoibu, the immediate past member of the 8th National Assembly, Rt Hon Iboro Ekanem as well as a host of others.
The speakers at the event all eulogized Ukpong-Udo for his unprecedented performance, describing him as a model of effective representation worthy of emulation. They prayed God to bless and strengthen him to do more for the constituency.

Items given out by Rep Ukpong-udo to a cross-section of the people included 22 vehicles, 5 Mini buses, 50 Motorcycles, 5 tricycles and 40 Industrial sewing machines. Ukpong-udo also disbursed N10million in business grants.

When we entered the University of Uyo, the first time this man came to the class, he announced, "I am Prof. Friday Okon, the most Wicked lecturer in this university. Students don't pass my course and I promise you, you will fail my course".

No sooner had he finished speaking these words than he walked up to a student who was giggling while he talked, told him to stand up and called him a useless fool.

We didn't only feel threatened, but we knew this certainly was the most Wicked lecturer. His actions matched his words.

Fast forwards to the first semester results, no result in the department had more As as his course, that same course he had told us no one passes.

We knew this man was just a bunch of kindness posing as a threat. Prof Okon does not just know all his students by name, he'll insult you for calling him just to hear from him, insult you for not calling him during the holiday and beat you in class for laughing even when he's said something funny.

You're never an intelligent student except a visitor comes while you're in his office then he'll introduce you to such a visitor as one of his best students.

Prof. Okon, alongside, Mr. Kufre ensured I completed my final year project on time. Anytime I go to the department, he'll call me off and ask me if I'm done, when I tell him no, he'll beat me up and call me a "useless fool with empty brain".

When I finally finished my project and submitted same, he asked me if I was done, I told him yes, and he told me that's, "how mad people do things, always wanting to be rushed". I requested for a picture with him and Mr. Kufre and he gladly obliged.

Today he made my fondness for him grow stronger, Prof. Okon despite his flaws and disposition towards shouting at, and beating up his students, has a very humane and soft part. He wasn't just there to see some of his students off, as they move for NYSC camps, but he also obliged to take pictures with them today at AKTC park, with smiles and prayers for success and protection.

He came to the park to bid us farewell, took pictures with us and still called us fools. Prof. Okon is such a lovely man who wants us to see him as a threat. But we have seen the mask and we have unmasked him. He's our favourite Wicked lecturer. �

I hope the Lord bless this man a lot.

By Loveday Mcjolly

https://noisemakerng.ng/2022/02/23/meet-prof-friday-okon-the-most-wicked-lecturer-in-the-department-of-english-university-of-uyo/

COMMUNIQUE BY ONNA STAKEHOLDERS CALLING FOR EPHRAIM INYANG-EYEN’S RESIGNATION FROM THE STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL ON 20TH FEBRUARY 2022

We have read stories and watched viral videos circulating in the social media, showing Mr. Ephraim Inyang-Eyen, the Chief of Staff, COS, to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State making malicious accusations, misleading comments, and patently false statements against the person and office of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State.

While addressing a section of ONNA people, in one of the videos, Mr. Inyang-Eyen can be clearly heard maligning the Governor in particular and the Government in general, in a futile attempt to clumsily explain away his tenure as the Commissioner for Works, a position he held for almost six years. He also made several other mundane, and ludicrous remarks then threw invectives at the Governor in a meeting about his long-shot bid for the Eket Senatorial seat.

For quite some time, we have been concerned that Mr. Inyang-Eyen has practically abandoned his duties as the COS to run errands for a gubernatorial aspirant.
We are shocked that the COS to the Governor, does not attend most state events, and when he manages to attend one, he comes in late, with his retinue of security guards, causing major distractions and displaying shameless lack of respect for protocols.
This audacious and shocking behaviour came to an embarrassing climax recently, at a function when the Governor publicly rebuked him by asking whether he’s still a member of his cabinet and performing and responsibilities of the Chief of Staff.

Mr. Inyang-eyen should have learned by now that serving in a government as an appointee of the Governor is a different ball game; it demands civility and the highest level of loyalty and circumspection.
While Mr. Inyang-Eyen has the right to aspire for any political office, he is not entitled to insulting and deliberately manufacturing falsehood against the Governor and the Government while still in the employ of the State. Enough!

We recall his crisis-ridden and turbulent tenure as the Commissioner of Works and the resulting image and public relations nightmare his indiscretions and rascality had created for the government. That Ministry today is performing optimally without noise and unnecessary braggadocio. Projects are being expeditiously completed.

Even at his present position as the COS, a role that is supposed to be strategic and crucial to the Governor’s Completion Agenda, his performance, or more appropriately, the lack of it, is riddled with controversy and avoidable inter-personal relationship issues.

In view of these incontrovertible facts, conservatively stated above, we declare as follows:

(1) That Mr. Ephraim Inyang-Eyen is an embarrassment to ONNA people who are known to be respectful to constituted authority and dedicated in service.
(2) That Mr. Inyang-eyen must tender a public apology to the Governor, the Government of Akwa Ibom State, and indeed the ONNA people. He must also circulate the said apology across the media platforms.
(3) That Mr. Inyang-eyen should immediately resign his appointment given his decidedly disloyal actions.
(4) That failure to heed these perfectly simple demands, we will be left with no other option than to petition the Governor for his immediate sack.
(5) That we hereby re-affirm our absolute loyalty and confidence in the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, our Son, His Excellency, Mr. Udom Emmanuel.
(6) That we re-affirm totally our support for the Governor’s Completion Agenda, including the support the preferred aspirant, Pastor Umo Eno, in the forthcoming Gubernatorial primaries and the 2023 general elections

God bless ONNA
God bless Governor Udom Emmanuel
God bless Akwa Ibom State


Signed:

It is going to be a new beginning, a new chapter. We are about to welcome new opportunities and excellent moments that will change our lives forever.

The business will no longer be as usual. Who we know will no longer matter.

Merit and substance will be the order of the day, and what we bring to the table will pay our bills.

The new chapter will allow us to get out of our comfort zone and start life over.

It is time to end our ties with the distant past and embrace a new and optimistic future.

A peek into this fresh chapter of life will help us forget our disappointments and accept the new perspectives and changes that hold exciting possibilities for our future.

In this new chapter, we will dare to look beyond old politics and have the audacity to ask for something better, especially now that there is so much to do.

We will need to take necessary actions that will help us realize our dreams and achieve our goals because, with Umo Eno, a new chapter opens for everyone in Akwa Ibom.

#UmoEno2023 #TeamUmoEno

Employees who are highly motivated become an asset to an organization, and they often drive the success of such an organization.

With motivation being intangible, difficult to measure and extremely difficult to control, it could be very easy to facilitate if done right!

Congratulations to staff of Ibom Icon Hotel who were decorated on Friday with Icon Gold Star Award and Icon Departmental Excellence Awards respectively.

Kudos to the new management of Ibom Icon Hotel for creating an amazing work environment that enable employees to achieve organizational goals without stress.

Truly, #IbomIconHotel leads on employees motivation and this is quite commendable!

#WetinhappenPR

Alan Rosenthal in a publication on the effectiveness of the legislature queried what state legislature in the 21st century should be; listing effectiveness and the ability to stay above influences that challenge their authorities, by staying true to the fundamental processes of representative democracy and legislative systems as key ingredients of viable legislation. Globally the question of who a good legislator is, has remained largely unanswered as constituencies have their peculiarity, but in establishing a common ground, every representation must first be visible, and for the right reasons.

There probably exists a hall of fame for great legislators, leaving us the option of hazarding a listing of constituencies that have over time been blessed with peopled representation, at least we have evolved to the realization that great feats when repeated becomes a culture. Not quite many parts of Nigeria can boast of legislators who in quick succession take to sustaining the steam, but Nsit Ubium State constituency in Akwa Ibom State comes most handy with the gift of men who sufficiently justify their mandates.

Sticking this convo to the fabric of representation they enjoy from their representatives in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly since the return of the fourth republic, no politically savvy mind would forget Rt. Hon. Aniefiok Thompson, Rt. Hon. Dan Akpan and Rt. Hon Onofiok Luke as men who in their time gave Nsit Ubium a permanent front seat in the hallowed chambers of the state legislature; producing a Deputy Speaker and Speaker in the process within twenty of the last twenty-three years. These feats are no passing affirmation that there exists in this constituency a benchmark required of a legislator.

Conscious of the calibre of representatives they paraded in the second to sixth assembly, the seventh could arguably not have been different, except that the people also queued up to rewrite history, when they produced for our clime the first beneficiary of the Muhammadu Buhari administration's not too young to run, as 25 year old Barr. Otobong Bob in 2019 took over the batons to continue the project of keeping Nsit Ubium on the front burners. This emergence may have been widely heralded as signalling a moment in the sun for young people, but not so much was expected, especially as he at the inauguration of the seventh assembly reported to duty with an age deficit.

Did the difference in age deter his ability to bring his A-game to the basket of legislative engagements? The answer, just like Onofiok Luke who joined the fifth assembly as the youngest would be a resounding No! In about three months shy of three years, this scion of Sen. Effiong Bob dynasty who was Deputy Speaker of the first Akwa Ibom Assembly, has proven that fortune goes beyond having one's kernels cracked by the gods, to knowing what to make from the kernels. He has sustained the delightsome verve of representation in the area, even to the consternation of the pessimistic lot, who could have counted his age as a disadvantage.

Think him as one who rode on the father's back to his sunny day and you would not be making any mistake, until you attribute his achievements and sterling performance in public service to the old block, then you would have to explain why other hundredths of kids from politically exposed backgrounds are yet to hazard anything worth writing about. In discussing his hold and reach, Otobong Bob must be commended for daring to be different and allowing his age count for the state on several positive scores, conscious that people far older than him are still neck-deep in exuberant tendencies. He has done the younger generation proud to be acknowledged as an ambassador of sort, who despite landing the fortune of being in the limelight, has carefully managed himself to stay above scandals and vices prevalent among his peers.

Getting to superintend the over the house committee on business, rules and ethics was quite instructive of the fact that the leadership of the seventh assembly understood capacity when one came by. From his engagement on that beat, one can safely agree that he belongs to an order that is concerned with institutional integrity, which he has covertly and overtly signposted in his dealings as the starboy of the seventh Akwa Ibom Assembly, considering the calibre of men who have sat on committees of such coordinate functions in legislative houses in our clime.

With sponsorship of four startegic bills, including the bill for a law to establish the Akwa Ibom State Security Trust Fund, a bill for a law to provide for the preservation, protection and restoration of historical properties and cultural heritage sites in Akwa Ibom State, the bill for a law to establish Akwa Ibom State office of the public defender and a bill to regulate rights and obligations under tenancy and the relationship between the landlord and tenant, including procedure for the recovery of premises and for connected purposes, Bob has also co-sponsored about twenty-two bills in addition to moving five sensitive motions, such as the one that sought to stem the tide of quackery in the Akwa Ibom health sector.

The energy that saw him crisscross the over eighty polling units prior to the 2019 polls was not lost on the electioneering, in giving his people value for their votes, Bob has been adequately reaching out through renovation of school blocks, acquisition of school desks, water projects in Ikot Akpan Abia Ubium, Ikot Ekpene Udo and Nung Obong, as well as numerous social interventions like employment, empowerment and support to constituents for healthcare, education and businesses, not forgetting that he stepped in as an emergency stop gap for his people in the dark days of covid-19 scourge, through sensitization, provision of none pharmaceutical preventive gears and the activation of an emergency team to coordinate incidence response.

As he looks to completing his current legislative outing, Bob in a recent media interaction said he is committed to pursuing ideas and programmes that will see to the strategic empowerment of his people, support the proactive bid to provide legislative backing to the flagship AkwaGIS programme of the state government through a bill for a law to regulate land administration, Akwa Ibom State geographic information services and other matters connected thereto, which is in the works. He again at that interaction committed to supporting the Aniekan Bassey leadership of the seventh assembly in furtherance of their caste at giving the state and her people leadership that is inclusive and result-oriented.

In tune with Henry Wadsworth, who posited that "the height by great men were not attained by sudden flight, but they, while their companions slept were toiling upward in the night." Otobong Bob, an alumnus of Brooke House College, University of Buckingham and University of Warwick, all in the United Kingdom as well as the Nigerian Law school, knew a future was underway when diligence and assertion would be the legal tender, as he surrendered to the mentorship of Alex Izinyon, SAN and Obla SAN to scoop every knowledge his passion for service required. Today he is not only ticking the right boxes but is unrelenting at etching his name on the hearts of time and people.

He may not be an everyday street baller, but he is well built with features that allow him freely interact with people across all of life's social spectrum; this finds expression in the massive acceptance that greeted his recent elevation as the Nsit Ubium Local Government Coordinator of what currently passes for one of Akwa Ibom's biggest political movement, the Maintain Peace Movement. Going by the goodwill he enjoys and the structural bent of Nsit Ubium politics, the possibility of staying beyond 2023 in the state legislature is as good as done, and this for his constituents and league of young people across the State holds a tremendous promise that better days are here.

Conclusively, continuing in the grace and might that have seen him walk shoulder high in public service, the quest for replacement of some ageing options with energetic and contemporary leadership alternatives has never found more emphasizes than mirroring the gains of what the younger Bob has brought to the table of leadership. Intrinsically, it is unassailable that with Otobong Bob lies greater possibilities for more young people to be admitted to leadership roles upon which the trajectory of development in our clime would be realigned to meet the yearnings of the present century, while drawing lessons from the past. Of the truth, a generation in recent times has not been better pioneered.

Samuel Ayara writes from Ibong Otoro in Abak LGA.

Coach Kennedy Boboye has parted ways with reigning NPFL champions Akwa United after a run of poor results in the current Nigeria Professional Football League season.

Boboye walked away after Akwa United's goalless draw at home against Heartland FC on matchday 12 in Uyo - their third successive draw at home in six matches.

Boboye who took over from Coach John Obuh in December 2019, led Akwa United to their first NPFL title last season but has failed to replicate that form after twelve rounds of matches this season in which his side has managed four victories, five draws and three defeats, leaving the club 8th on the log with 17 points from 12 games.

The club wishes Coach Boboye well in his future endeavors.

Mfon Patrick
Media Manager
Akwa United FC

Journalists in Akwa Ibom State under the aegies of Eket Federal Constituency Media Professionals, EFCMP have raised alarm over alleged plot by those it refers to as blood tasty desperate power seekers to truncate the prevailing peace being enjoyed in the State.

Recall that the Punch, Nation, Sun Newspapers and some other national dailies had on Thursday 10th february, 2022 carried a news story of threats by a militant group that goes with the name, 'Unyekisong Akwa Ibom' threatening to unleash violence on the state should the Governor fail to withdraw support for Pastor Umo Eno, one of the aspiring Governorship aspirants.

In a statement jointly endorsed on-behalf of the Eket Media Professionals by the Chairman, Jerry Edoho, Secretary, Mfon Bassey and the Publicity Secretary, Edet Edet, the EFCMP wants the police to launch an investigation into the threat with a view to bringing those behind the threats and their sponsors to book.

The group warns that any attempt to disrupt the peace of the state would be strongly resisted by Akwa Ibom people.

The open letter addressed to the IGP reads in part:

"There is no doubt from the content of the threats as captured in that publication, that ‘Unyekisong Akwa Ibom’ and other incubating structures envisaged in this political season is already known to be a political tool that is being wielded by desperate and selfish persons, who think the 2023 gubernatorial seat is the exclusive right of their Federal Constituency.

"Those threats impinge on the collective knowledge of acceptability of the Governor’s preferred choice of successor in Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, across all strata of Akwa Ibom people hence, the reason we issue this swift response.

"The sudden proposition of anarchy on Akwa Ibom to satisfy some selfish power mongers, is archaic, barbaric and calls for an intense security measure to avert this angst on a state with the peace trademark.

"It is an acceptable fact that for the past years, Akwa Ibom people have enjoyed a new narrative of peace and security and the burden of thoughts of reneging into such chaotic system is unthinkable, devastating and unimaginable.

"The tale of this bloodlust desperate power seekers, purposeless leaders with myopic vision, is synonymous with the tales of the gods of destruction in the Greek mythology.

"It could be recalled that the Greek god of destruction (Perses) was worshipped for the devastation and disorder in the land, and such is the intent of the faceless splinter group named Unyekisong, contracted to bring violence and threatening the life of His Excellency and the peace model State, and such act should be vehemently condemned and discountenanced by every Akwa Ibom sons and daughters.

"Akwa Ibom State cannot be on the erstwhile lane of violence and engraved vicissitude, which retracted the pace of growth and development in our State for some time before His Excellency Governor Udom Emmanuel mounted the saddle of leadership.

"Restoring such days of incivility and barbarism will portray us as people of undiscerning lineage.

"On this note, we make bold to say that the choice of Pastor Umo Bassey Eno as the preferred successor as adopted by the stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party and presented by His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel does not warrant threats from any blood sucking demon.

"We therefore call on the Inspector General of police, Usman Akhali Baba PSC (+), NPM, FDC, who witnessed and testified of the peaceful environment during the recently concluded Police Retreat in Akwa Ibom State, as a matter of urgency, to rise to the occasion and bring every single element behind the issued threat notice, and their sponsors to book.

"No son of Adam has the right to truncate or even attempt to truncate the peaceful coexistence of Akwa Ibom people," they averred.

The media group wanted the perpetrators and their sponsors to be made to face the full wrath of the law.

...

If you don't know what happens down Nwaniba Road every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, now is the time to learn!

Immediately you drive past Ibom Icon Hotel Roundabout is the newest fun spot called Resorts Carabana.

Resorts Carabana has an upscale bar and lounge, an event space, a beach soccer pitch, a nightclub, and a state-of-the-art swimming pool where fun lovers party all night!

The elegant design of this fun center delivers a venue that has something for everyone.
So, how's your Friday night going? Are you still wondering why everyone is going to Nwaniba?

There's a pool party happening tonight, and it will run till Saturday morning!

Now is the time to discover something new in the city of Uyo! Check out #ResortsCarabana tonight, and thank me later!

#IbomNightlife

More photos

It was outpour of emotions this evening as the National Leadership of the Pastor Umo Eno Campaign Organization and that of the Maintain Peace Movement in company of other stakeholders paid a consultative visit to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Mr Udom Emmanuel and wife, Her Excellency, Dr. (Mrs) Martha Udom Emmanuel.

The meeting provided a platform for the stakeholders to formally thank Governor Emmanuel for allowing God to prevail in his succession process, before formally presenting Pastor Umo Eno for his fatherly blessings.

The delegation was led by the Director General of Campaigns, Chief Assam Assam,SAN and Chairman of MPM, Barr Emmanuel Enoidem.

…more details shortly

©️MPM MEDIA NETWORK

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.

Remember him?

He’s SP Felix Ekpoudom, the Division Police Officer, Uruan LGA, Nigeria Police Force, Akwa Ibom State Command.

Do you remember the DPO that celebrated Christmas with suspects from in his station? That’s him. Well it appears this fine gentleman’s milk of kindness will not run dry for a long time.

This time around he has sponsored the medical treatment of a five year old boy, a victim of kerosene explosion whose parents lack the ability to get medical treatment for.

While interrogating the parents, the DPO, SP Ekpoudom observed that they came from a poor home and couldn't take the child for medical treatment. Without hesitation, SP Ekpoudom ordered for the innocent boy to be rushed to University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) for medical intervention so as to save the boy’s life, bills on him.

The young boy has been admitted at UUTH and is responding to treatment while surgical operations will commence this week.

In a country where some policemen are viewed as oppressive, it is necessary to applaud this fine gentleman for his kindness. God bless him.

Source: Ubong Creativity David

As conclusion in a recent paper on Akwa Ibom people, language, culture, politics; the dividing factors and solutions, Aniekan Johnson posited that "our challenges are local so are their solutions, so let us dream collectively, plan futuristic and in the knowledge of our strength by our unique history and culture if our society must be better". These lines got me glossing over our political historicity and the need to reinvent the depth and acclaim of the past in our walk to a sunny day. In that paper, I was hit differently by Johnson's description of history as the most critical capital for sustainable development.

In reflecting on our progress, we must be careful not to jettison viable efforts of the past that have brought us this far. Such conversations would bring to mind events, actions and human assets that braved the times and tides to shine us some luck. At the zenith of these human assets sits the affable, energetic and passionate Sen. Effiong Bob; a name engraved in the heart of our political firmament. With the evolving political milieu and attendant 2023 crossfire, it is time we patterned our political solutions after a peopled and workable module. As with our challenges, our solutions must also be local, whatever our priorities are about age, experience, content and reach; this one-stop lover of Akwa Ibom has all the poise and passion that getting things to work require.

My reverence for Senator Bob stems from the solidity of the touch and impact he has exerted in his space. It is unassailable that he will for long remain a rallying point in leadership discourse in our clime, not for high-end sophistication but pro-people dispositions. When chronicling his engagements, it is easier to find in him a trusted ally inclined to healthy collaborations. He believed in working with people way earlier when individuality was a courted order; left a budding law practice to hearken his people's call to service as Supervisor, a partnership that has spanned more than three decades without any of the parties counting a loss.

If I ever come by a future I would be required to talk about politicians who found fortune in service of their people, I would spare no time in describing Senator Bob who from beginning small did more than treat his people small. Lacing every inch of his way to the top with pricey laurels, it has become both warm and alluring to reflect on what possibility one clawed in ticking the box of political attainments in a leadership adventure that began way earlier, as School prefect, pioneer Secretary of the Land use and Advisory Committee in charge of the old Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area now comprising Obot Akara and Essien Udim, Councillor, Chairman, member of the state legislature, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, as well as a two term Senator of the Federal Republic and an active member of the ECOWAS parliament for eight years.

His scorecard on each leadership rung is already in the open, but deserving of mention is the capacity he exhibited to remain Deputy Speaker of an Assembly that had three Speakers within its lifespan. Whatever was behind his not being consumed in the power play, would readily admit him in the hall of fame of leaders who should be studied with a view to acquitting people in position of authority with the capacity of sustaining their hold and grip. This may not be unconnected with his belief that politics is a game of maneuvering where one only succeeds with God and people sensitivities as often captured in his popular "mbre ikid song".

Have we ever rewarded ingenuity? The response would be a yelling "yes". It could not have been for nothing sake that he was appointed Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in 1999 at the return of democracy, and by no less a man than the scrupulous Obong Victor Attah. While on that constitutionally recognized state executive council seat, a lot of mileage must have been covered at putting together laws that were required to drive democratic governance in the state, as the military government of the time left lots of considerations that on several counts could not be applied in a civil rule.

Whether he did well on that beat would be better explained in his being drafted to represent Uyo senatorial district at a time men who loved Akwa Ibom State were needed at the center to push the resource control and onshore/offshore oil dichotomy conversation that was threatening to rip the Niger Delta region apart. Alongside patriots who saw the larger picture, Bob in the Senate was not just a cerebral voice, but became an oak the 5th Senate could rely on, which arguably thrusted him to the reckoning of chairing sensitive committees like finance, Senate services, power and solid minerals as well as local/foreign debts, among a chain of landmark interventions Nigeria can retrospect with gratitude.

His exploits up till the last day of his eight year stay in the red chambers were laced with beautiful moments of mature politicking and viable pro-people interventions that came to an abrupt end when his shot at a third term was thwarted despite his cult-like following and massive acceptability. To say it was his district's loss when he could not return to the Senate in 2011 would amount to being uncharitable to Sen. Ita Enang, who succeeded him, but of the truth, a golden era of people representation had been cut short. Those who were not there may have to check up with the Minister of Niger Delta, Chief Godswill Akpabio, to find out what he meant when he referred to Senator Bob as the proverbial "Atama soup" which gets better with time.

When indigenes of Akwa Ibom are counted on the staff and graduates roll of University of Benin, it is to the eternal credit of this Ikot Ekwere Ubium political maverick who latched on the opportunity he had as Pro-chancellor and Chairman Governing Council of the institution to expand the horizon for indigenes of the state to either be admitted as students or employed as staff. The tact with which he managed the unusual influx of Akwa Ibom people to Uniben without raising a brow would easily pass him for an octogenarian; whose patriotism does not look away from merit and balance.

There may not be an accurate chronicling of politically exposed persons who have supported educational development without the mention of Bob, who has led several interventions in the direction of getting the education sector on its feet. Worthy of note is his role at getting Nigerian University teachers back to class in 2013 at the death of ASUU former President, Prof. Festus Iyayi, in a road crash in Kogi, while heading for an ASUU national executive meeting in Kano. This he conceived as a mark of honour for the departed ex-president of the union. In his days at Uniben, Bob also championed an anti corruption crusade to rescue the institution from the claws of mindless perfidy. The 696- bed hostel he got the Barr. Bassey Dan Abia led Niger Delta Development Commission to build will for long be recorded on his credit column to booster the glorious era of his hold at the Ugbowo and Ekehuan campuses of the institution.

If the ultimate measure of a man, according to Martin Luther King, jr, is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands during challenging and controversial moment, then Sen. Effiong Bob had long proved himself a man deserving of the confidence of his people. Not many would forget Onofiok Luke's stormy return to the state house of assembly in 2014, when state actors within the Godswill Akpabio gubernatorial court were up against him. It was Sen. Bob's resilience and daring support for Luke, up to endorsing his nomination forms, that did all the magic, even when several Nsit Ubium critical stakeholders thought differently. Today Nsit Ubium is thick in the comity of state constituencies that have produced Speaker of the state assembly, a feat that may not have been possible if the elderstateman was not firm and definitive at resisting the attempt to arm twist his people.

Every time people have attempted a doubt on his patriotism on account of having his son in the House of Assembly, his defence would remain that in one lifetime he has mentored scores of people to political offices as chairmen, state and Federal legislators as well as sensitive appointments as commissioners and other roles. Such a man should also be leveraged to bend backward to take a look at home, as he cannot be seen as the proverbial carpenter who makes doors for people but have none. He sure could not have refused the call of critical stakeholders to have Barr. Otobong Bob, give the state legislature a shot, as it was also one of the numerous ways of encouraging children of politically exposed persons to lead reputable lives than indulge anti-social vices of hooliganism and drugs that is threatening that rung of the society.

The ability to still stay atop his game, lead an economically productive life and not drift into the path of bullying his political beneficiaries for returns clearly stands him out as a natural leader, who is either contented or sufficiently productive to call his bills. This trait of financial independence is rare for a society that easily looks forward to entitlements; even from the most ridiculous of places. For Bob, it is even more honourable that his name is yet to be mentioned as a leprous finger in any illicit financial deal; this attests to his strength of character and entrepreneurial acumen which have for decades seen him tower as an employer of labour that in many ways have added value to our society.

Without painting a gerontocrat picture of his political hold, we must be careful to preserve the brightest of our lights, conscious that an uninformed shift could completely displace our clime. He stands tall and irrepressible in the Nigerian conversation and wears numerous caps that is giving our clime advantage and impetus; these are values we should strife to make the best of rather than think him a competitor, which brings to mind his recent elevation and recognition as the Political Leader of no less a place than Etinan Federal constituency. While this elevation did not slide without an emphatic mention of the need to consider a credential like his as political leader of Uyo Senatorial District, people of the district should however consider the benefits of his wealth of experience and stability, especially as they look forward to producing Akwa Ibom's next governor.

Intriguing of his leadership credentials are the disarming smiles, unassuming mien and faultless humility that puts him on a pedestal where struggling for recognition or stirring needless controversies got nothing on him. He still finds people at various strata of social construct warm enough to be considered friends and family, a rare attribute of men in his class. Whoever has been around long enough would acknowledge him as a politician who has never deployed his resources or contacts to the detriment of the state at any point. It is unassailable that Senator Effiong Dickson Bob is one of the very few advantaged Akwa Ibom elites that have maintained a crisis free relationship with the trio of Obong Victor Attah, Chief Godswill Akpabio and Governor Udom Emmanuel, even in moments a standoff appeared unavoidable.

We cannot wish away the advancements that could aide our mileage to a sustainable and enduring future, but let our leadership priorities and choices reflect our desires to see the Akwa Ibom project attain viability. With 2023 as the next big issue on the plate of politically conscious people, we must device a means of bringing our best minds and hands on the table where deals would be brokered. This is Sen. Effiong Bob's forte, judging from testimonials of beneficial deals he has in time past struck for the state. It is a truism that men made of his fabric cannot be overlooked in the composition of statesmen on the discourse about our future; if patriotism, maturity, experience and capacity are values to esteem.

A man of conviction and patriotic dispositions, Senator Effiong Bob does not only deserve our respect as he soldier's on with repositioning leadership and service delivery, our state have come full cycle to the point we must get intentional at creating more men in his velve and class, if we must take our rightful space on the table where nigeria is the topic of discussion.

Samuel Ayara writes from Ibong Otoro in Abak LGA.

http://ibomstrokes.com/2022/01/18/effiong-bob-the-capacity-and-experience-akwa-ibom-cannot-ignore/

Gentlemen of the Press, it is a universal concept that the main responsibility of Government is to meet the welfare needs of her citizens. To achieve this, responsible leaders find creative ways of using policies, programmes and projects to cater to the varying needs of her diverse citizenry. These needs are divided into long, medium and short terms and government strives to satisfy them.

This administration piloted by Governor Udom Gabriel Emmanuel at its inception, promised to attract industries and manufacturing concerns to the state. The administration realizing that industrialization was impossible without power supply, chased both goals with equal vigour. This chase birthed the 33KV injection sub station at Nwaniba, which helped step up our power supply to citizens. As a result, electric power became available up to 20 hours each day in some parts of the state, and the electricity in the metropolis was nicknamed ‘#IkangUdom’. Flowing from this huge success, our leader and Governor, Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel was encouraged to make other strategic investments in the power sector. These included the 132 X 33KV, 2x60 MVA transmission substation at Ekim, in addition to the upgrade and optimization of the 132 X 33KV, 3x60 MVA transmission station at Afaha Ube Itam in Uyo metropolis, 33/11KV, 2x15 MVA injection substation at Edet Akpan Ave (aka 4 Lanes), Uyo, and the replacement of damaged and unserviceable transformers, and other power equipment and accessories all over the state. In recognition of the huge investments in this sector, the state was nicknamed ‘The Power State’ by both the Vice President of The Federal Republic of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osibanjo and the then Minister of Power, Mr. Babatunde Fashola SAN. They both unreservedly commended the Governor for his foresight in investing so massively in the power sector. To directionally condense these efforts, the Governor created a Ministry of Power and Petroleum Development to drive the mission and vision of government as they pertain to power on one hand, and of course petroleum on the other.

Not known for resting on his laurels, the Governor gave himself not just a laudable ‘Power for All’ themed goal, but an audacious rollout target date of December 2021. This program and its target had three key foundations, namely:
1. Connection of villages to the national grid,
2. Metering solutions, which involved the provision of prepaid meters, and
3. Network optimization.
These foundations were to serve as catalysts to birth the power revolution, with the potential of providing an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, and lifting many from poverty. We have as an administration worked tirelessly to achieve the goals under each segment.

For clarity, permit me to highlight these foundations individually.

CONNECTION OF VILLAGES TO THE NATIONAL GRID
At the last count, we have attained 94 % in the connection of the 2,274 gazetted villages to the national grid, and believe that we have performed remarkably well in this regards. This feat was attained through the diligence and committed support of our dear Governor, who took particular interest in the power sector. The remaining communities yet to be connected will soon be connected, so they can join the league of communities with public power. To complement this, we tapped into the World Bank/REA Nigeria Electrification Program and investment in renewable energy, and over 25 communities have been earmarked across the state for solar powered mini-grid. Work has already started in Ini local government to build a mini grid that will supply solar powered electricity to the communities there.

METERING SOLUTIONS
The Governor Udom Emmanuel-led administration has achieved applaudable success in providing prepaid meters for installation in key residential clusters. Under the pilot scheme, the Akwa Ibom State Government had earmarked 32,000 units of prepaid meters for installation in homes and businesses, commencing in the metropolitan area of the state. So far, 12,000 units have been distributed and installed. We are also expecting additional units of meters from the Federal Government through the National Mass Metering Programme (NMMP) due to the goodwill and the good relationship our Governor and his lieutenants have maintained with the Government at the center. However, these meters will be provided through PHEDC.

NETWORK OPTIMIZATION:
The efforts of the present administration to optimize the current power network have been geared towards the continuous servicing, repairs, maintenance, and installation of major injection substations, distribution transformers, armored cables, feeder pillars, electric poles, and other capital-intensive power-related infrastructure. The Ministry of Power and Petroleum Development, under Governor Udom Emmanuel’s administration, constantly receives complaints about failed or damaged power systems. In response, the ministry, with the support of the Governor, intervenes through repairs and replacements of power equipment and accessories, as the need arises.
To give a little more detail, the AKSG has:
a.) approved, released and installed over 470 Distribution Transformers all over the 31 LGAs,
b.) constructed over 100km of both 33KV HT networks and 11KV HT networks all over the State,
c.) completed the installations of hundreds of Feeder Pillars, and rehabilitation of over 300 distribution transformer substations.

Our investments in the key power infrastructures like the Ekim Power Station, the Nwaniba Substation and our master stroke feat in the running of dedicated lines to service key institutions like the Ibom Icon Hotel, The Victor Attah International Airport, Ibom Specialist Hospital, and the Dakkada Luxury Estate among others, have become a model to many states and seriously reduced the frustration these institutions experienced as a result of epileptic power supply.

LOOKING AHEAD
A lot of efforts have been made towards linking rural communities to the national grid. To complement these efforts, we’re deploying solar energy for several communities to benefit from the National Solar Programme. We will continue to advocate for more meters to be made available for both private and commercial customers. These undoubtedly will inch us closer to our target of making affordable power available for all citizens of Akwa Ibom State.

Conversely, to whom much is given, much is expected. The citizens also owe themselves the responsibility of protecting the power infrastructure in the vicinity of where they live and where they work. They must ensure prompt payment of consumption charges and meter their subscription, to avoid estimated billing.

Despite all our efforts, the legal structure of our country allocates some critical parts of the power sector outside the reach of the State Government. For example, in our state, no matter what level of investment the State Government makes, PHEDC is critical to the attainment of our power goal. The government has and will continue to engage PHEDC in a bid to push for more power off take and distribution to our people. We are hopeful that in the days ahead, PHEDC will see eye to eye with our state government on the need to increase supply of power to our citizens, while providing good customer service. Be rest assured that while the AKSG is engaging the distribution company PHEDC, we’re also exploring other means of ensuring that our state can have uninterrupted power.

Notably, the desire of Governor Udom Emmanuel is that power should reach the nooks and crannies of the state, and that the source of power should be dependable and constant, so as to cause a drastic reduction in the running cost for businesses and enhance the living standards of our citizens. The essence of this press briefing is to assure you that despite almost achieving our target under the ‘power for all program, we will continue to vigorously pursue the goal of providing dependable power for all.

Gentlemen, I thank you for your time and attention, and hope that you will continue to be our partners.

Text of Press Statement for POWER FOR ALL PROGRAM; OUR JOURNEY SO FAR
By Dr. John J. Etim
Hon. Commissioner for Power & Petroleum Development, Akwa Ibom State, held on Thursday, January 13, 2022 at the Conference Room of Ministry of Power & Petroleum Development, Uyo.

Akwa Ibom son, Josiah Bassey, has been nominated for the 2022 GRAMMYs Awards. The Recording Academy announced nominations for 86 categories recently, and Josiah was nominated for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song.

This award is given to the artist(s) and songwriter(s) (for new compositions) for the best contemporary Christian music single or track, (including pop, rap/hip-hop, Latin, or rock.)

Josiah, who started his music career in Uyo before settling in New York City, USA, is rated among Kirk Franklin, Chandler Moore, CeCe Winans; Dwan Hill, Kyle Lee, Elevation Worship and Maverick City Music, Naomi Raine, and Chris Brown etc., in this category.

Josiah is nominated for a song titled Hold Us Together (Hope Mix), written by him, H.E.R., Tauren Wells and Dernst Emile.

All the way from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, Josiah Bassey has become an international artist.

There Shall Be A Performance in 2022!

#AkwaIbomsGotTalent

iFlex is a global e-commerce platform and social network for businesses and independent professionals.

The App was launched at Ibom Christmas Village on Saturday, January 1, 2022.

The iFlex Mobile App presents users with an opportunity to enjoy the overall benefit of our local emojis, business listing, cooking lessons, language tutor, and e-commerce.

The App integrates a social platform with a section where users can learn about our local dialects. They can also learn about our local dishes too!

Advertising your business or brand will become super easy with iflex. Our tourism potentials and tourist destinations will also be showcased on the app.

Performing the official launch of the App, the Honorable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Akwa Ibom State, Rt. Hon. Orman Esin, said searching for products, making purchases, and getting items delivered will be a great experience on the iFlex app.

He added that it will get even more wonderful with the after-sales service and product support!

The app so far has over 1000 downloads, with a redesigned User Interface and widgets redesigned to provide more utility throughout your day.

To download the iFlex app, click https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=iflex.app.v3&hl=en&gl=US

#iFlexApp
#iFlex
#WetinhappenPR

iFlex is a global e-commerce platform and social network for businesses and independent professionals.

The App was launched at Ibom Christmas Village on Saturday, January 1, 2022.

The iFlex Mobile App presents users with an opportunity to enjoy the overall benefit of our local emojis, business listing, cooking lessons, language tutor, and e-commerce.

The App integrates a social platform with a section where users can learn about our local dialects. They can also learn about our local dishes too!

Advertising your business or brand will become super easy with iflex. Our tourism potentials and tourist destinations will also be showcased on the app.

Performing the official launch of the App, the Honorable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Akwa Ibom State, Rt. Hon. Orman Esin, said searching for products, making purchases, and getting items delivered will be a great experience on the iFlex app.

He added that it will get even more wonderful with the after-sales service and product support!

The app so far has over 1000 downloads, with a redesigned User Interface and widgets redesigned to provide more utility throughout your day.

To download the iFlex app, click https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=iflex.app.v3&hl=en&gl=US

#iFlexApp
#iFlex
#WetinhappenPR

More

The Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival made its debut in the year 2008 when it was then known as the Akwa Ibom Christmas Carol Night. In 2011, the event made global history when it featured an unprecedented 9,999-member choir. That gave the event the epithet, “9999 Carol Night”.

The Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival is an annual non-denominational Christian celebration where thousands of voices are raised in worship to God. This festival brings together a host of worshippers and features a large group of carol singers and some of the best local and international gospel artistes of our time.

This year's edition was held at Ibom Hall Grounds, IBB Avenue, Uyo.

Check out these photos!

#AKCAROLSFEST2021 brings together a host of worshippers and features a large group of carol singers and some of the best local and international gospel artistes of our time.

The Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival made its debut in the year 2008 when it was then known as the Akwa Ibom Christmas Carol Night. In 2011, the event made global history when it featured an unprecedented 9,999-member choir. That gave the event the epithet, “9999 Carol Night”.

On December 13, 2014, the event set a new World Record in a gathering that featured 25,272 carols singers. Till date, it is the largest group of Carols Singers in the world and was officially certified and cited in the Guinness World Records.

The Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival has since grown in magnitude to become a highly anticipated festival of Christian songs, dance and worship.

Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival is recognized by worshipers around the world and has featured top local and international gospel sensations like Don Moen, Ron Kenoly, Bob Fitts, Donnie McClurkin, Sinach, Nathaniel Bassey, Eben, Aity Dennis, Bongos Ikwue, the Harmonious Chorale and great Ministers of God’s word from around the world.

The 2021 edition is happening live at Ibom Hall Grounds, IBB Avenue, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

You can also Stream on:
https://www.akcarolsfest.com/livestream
https://www.facebook.com/akcarolsfest
https://www.youtube.com/AkwaIbomStateGovernment

#TheReturn

Bishop T. D. Jakes has arrived Uyo ahead of tonight's Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival 2021, happening at Ibom Hall Grounds, IBB Avenue, Uyo.

He is the bishop of The Potter's House, a non-denominational American megachurch. Bishop Jakes will be ministering tonight at the event.

The Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival is an annual non-denominational Christian celebration where thousands of voices are raised in worship to God.

Livestream of this event is available at:
https://www.akcarolsfest.com/livestream
https://www.facebook.com/akcarolsfest
https://www.youtube.com/AkwaIbomStateGovernment

Follow the conversation on social media with hastags #AKCAROLSFEST2021 #TheReturn

Lifestyle is re-defined here! Laundry Lounge is a state-of-the-art, upscale lounge located in the posh Ewet Housing district of Uyo! There's so much to discover about this place!

First of all, Laundry Lounge is a hub for classic lovers of style whose interest is lounging unperturbed in a cozy environment with the perfect ambiance for a blend of business and pleasure.

The Laundry Lifestyle offers you an opportunity to step away from all the hustle and bustle that life brings and enter into a thrilling world-class lounge experience.

The premiere of Laundry Lounge holds this Saturday, December 18, 2021, at 7 pm.

Among notable guests expected to grace this occasion is Ini Edo and Linda Osifo, top Nollywood actresses and entrepreneurs.

Visit Laundry Lounge at Plot 2B, Unit D, Ewet Housing Estate, Uyo.

It is time to step up your game as the big league is waiting to receive you!

Attendance at this event is by invitation.

Link up and get set for the #LaundryLifestyle.

#LaundryLoungeUyo
#WetinhappenPR

A healthcare facility is currently looking for candidates to fill the following position:

POSITION - SALES & MARKETING OFFICER

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
• Grow patient number of clinic.
• Build new partnership with hospitals for referrals.
• Organise presentations at prospect companies.
• Establish new retainership with companies.
• Organise door 2 door marketing campaigns.
• Develop proposals, letters and presentations.
• Conduct market research to identify opportunities
• Develop effective marketing strategy and campaigns
• Organize and attend marketing activities to raise awareness on the company’s services.
• Execute advertising and promotional campaigns through various media
• Liaise with clients and stakeholders.

REQUIREMENTS
• HND / BSc in Marketing, Business Administration or any other relevant field
• Relevant experience in a hospital / healthcare sector is required.
• Solid knowledge of marketing techniques and principles
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skill

POSITION - CLIENT RELATIONS OFFICER

RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Serve as the first contact to customers.
2. Meet the needs of customers and give appropriate guide.
3. To maintain a friendly and courteous demeanour at all times.
4. Ensure patients are promptly reminded of their review and glasses’ due dates.
5. Act as point of contact for complaints and escalate client’s bookings as appropriate.
6. Study competition to find new ways to increase and retain customers.
7. Set sales targets and work diligently to meet them.

REQUIREMENTS
1. Candidate must possess HND / B.Sc. from a reputable Institution
2. Must be proficient in English (oral and written).
3. Candidate must have completed NYSC.
4. Must have excellent knowledge of the use of Microsoft Office Packages (Excel and Word).
5. Excellent phone etiquette and ability to multi-task.
6. Must be smart, creative, good communicator and administratively efficient.
7. Ability to pay attention to details.
8. Good customer service orientation.
9. A Bi-lingual skill is an advantage.

Interested and qualified candidates should forward their CV containing a recent passport photograph to: recruitment20207@gmail.com using the position and location as subject of email. Deadline is two weeks from date of advertisement.

#JobsinAkwaIbom #MedicalJobsinAkwaIbom

Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria, CIPM, is an umbrella association for practitioners of Human Resource Management in Nigeria, established in 1968 and chartered by Act No. 58 of 1992.

The Founding Chairman of CIPM, Akwa Ibom State Branch, Elder (Obong) Dr. Effiong O. Eno,
FCIPM, lived and worked in Lagos for a great part of his career and was an active member of IPM as the Institute was then called.

His professional colleagues and friends
encouraged him to start an IPM Branch in Akwa Ibom State after his retirement in 1991 which he later received a letter from the Director of Membership encouraging him to do same.

The Institute started with about five people between 1994– 1996.

Otunba Solomon Oladunni, FCIPM, Chairman of the Council and National President at the time, officially inaugurated the Branch in 1996.

The Branch had considerable support from Cross River State Branch and a large number of people turned up for the Branch inauguration.

The Institute did not have an official Secretariat till 1997 when the Branch Secretariat was moved to Udo Umana Street, Uyo, but till then, meetings were held at Mobil Filling Station, 152 Oron Road, Uyo, and offices of different members of the Institute.

Rev. Dr. Otuekong Ukut, FCIPM was the first Secretary of the Branch, and it is worthy to note that Senator Helen U. J. Esuene was a very strong financial, moral and professional support to the Institute.

Past Chairmen of the Branch included;

Late Elder Anietie Johnson, MCIPM (2000 – 2002)
Rev. Dr. Otuekong Ukut, FCIPM (2002 - 2004)
Mr. Ekanabasi Ubong, MCIPM (2004 - 2006)
Mr. Etekamba Umoren, MCIPM (2008 - 2013) Mr. Iniabasi Ubong, FCIPM (2014 - 2016)
Mr. Hogan Bassey, MCIPM (2017 – 2019)
Mr. Francis Etim, MCIPM (2019 – 2021)

In July 2021, under the current leadership of Mr. Anthony Isonguyo, MCIPM, another significant milestone was recorded when a more befitting second official Secretariat of the Branch was inaugurated at 59 Edet Akpan Avenue (Four-Lane), Uyo after 24 years at the previous one.

Apex body for practitioners of Human Resource Management in Nigeria, Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria, CIPM, Akwa Ibom State Branch, is set for her 25th Anniversary Lecture and Dinner Award Night.

The event fixed for Friday, December 10, 2021, will hold at Ibom Icon Hotel & Golf Resort, Uyo.

The Institute, through continuous innovation, strives to positively transform, develop, and sustain professional excellence in the Human Resource profession.

DDP Galaxy Entertainment, owners of DDP Galaxy TV is set to splash Five Hundred Thousand Naira on football jogglers in Akwa Ibom State.

This was made known on Tuesday at a Press briefing held at DDP Galaxy Entertainment Office, Mbierebe Obio, Uyo.

Speaking at the event, the CEO of DDP Galaxy Entertainment, Sir Obioma Onyeama a.k.a Osunmanu, said DDP is in Akwa Ibom to discover and nurture talents to greatness in line with the Dakkada Philosophy of His Excellency, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, Governor of Akwa Ibom State.

He expressed the readiness of DDP Galaxy to partner relevant stakeholders in the state to create a platform for talented individuals in the entertainment and sports sector.

Sir Onyema hinted that a partnership between DDP Galaxy Entertainment, Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Guinness World Record Holder on Ball Joggling & Balancing, Harrison Chinedu, has given birth to Ibom Football Joggling Competition 2021.

He said the competition precedes a record breaking attempt in 2022 by the Guinness World Record Holder on Ball Joggling & Balancing, Harrison Chinedu, to balance the ball on his head while taking-off 33 t-shirts.

Announcing a cash prize of N250,000 for the winner, N150,000 for first runner up and N100,000 for second runner up, Sir Onyema said this is DDP's way of encouraging sport talents across the state.

The DDP Boss said the competition is open to football jogglers in Akwa Ibom irrespective of their gender or age.

Preliminary selection holds on Saturday, December 11, 2021 by 4pm at Ibom Christmas Village while the grand finale holds on Sunday, December 12, 2021 by 4pm at the same venue.

Registration for this competition is free and forms are available at the Information Center of Ibom Christmas Village.

Interested jogglers can call 08034001374 for more details.

#DDPGalaxyTV
#DDPGalaxyEntertainment
#IbomFootballJogglingCompetition
#IbomChristmasCelebration2021
#IbomChristmasVillage2021
#WetinhappenPR