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I want to begin this brief piece by making a recourse to the caution of Winston Churchill (1874-1965), a British statesman and Prime Minister, that, “you will never get to the end of the journey if you stop to shy a stone at every dog that barks.” The sage was alluding to the fact that human beings ought to be focused and avoid actions which tend to distracts them from attaining their goals.
Recently, some pundits and revisionists, who are bankrolled by certain politicians from Uyo Senatorial District, have “inflamed” the political atmosphere in the state over the consultations made by the National Coordinator of Maintain Peace Movement, Emmanuel Enoidem, regarding his ambition to contest the senatorial seat for ISD.
These traducers of Enoidem, erroneously hinge their arguments on the fact that Chris Ekpenyong, the incumbent Senator has over a year and five months to complete his tenure; therefore Enoidem’s consultation is rather too early and demeans the office and emotions of Ekpenyong.
The second strand of argument purveyed by a group, I refer to as, ‘merchants of lies’ is that Enoidem’s position as National Coordinator of Maintain Peace Movement is at cross -purpose with his ambition to run for the senatorial seat of Ikot Ekpene. This lame, illogic and ad hominem argument is allegedly purveyed by some media handlers of a certain governorship aspirant from Uyo Senatorial District, who believe Enoidem’s loyalty to Governor Emmanuel is a threat to the gubernatorial ambition of their principal.
Both arguments hold no water and smack of the hoax of the Greek Trojan Horse of April 24, 1184- which Ancient Greece deployed to attack Troy. Rather, the question that begs for an answer, at this critical point is, why are Enoidem’s traducers more interested in the politics of ISD than those of Uyo and Eket Senatorial Districts where they come from? Why is Enoidem’s position as the MPM Coordinator causing unnecessary ripples and insomnia to supporters of two gubernatorial aspirants from Uyo Senatorial District? These questions, among other compelling deconstruction, give further clarification to Gil Courtemanche’s thought, that, “propaganda is as powerful as heroin; it surreptitiously dissolves all capacity to think.”
First, It must be noted that the petitions by these ‘merchants of lies’ against Enoidem is NOT about him. It is inextricably intertwined with the succession agenda of Governor Emmanuel, which in the conjecture and estimation of these ‘merchants of lies’, has to FAIL. In their considered opinion, any aspirant, EXCEPT, the one ordained by the Governor, should emerge as the gubernatorial standard bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party in 2023.
Secondly, the recent calumnious campaign against Enoidem is not in any way related to his endorsement by stakeholders of ISD. Factually, the endorsement has continued to enjoy acceptability by majority of people in ISD. The reason for this is that the event had in attendance, most of the major political potentates of the area. Besides, endorsements and consultations are known democratic practices, which no democrat should see as an affront, because, it doesn’t reduce anyone’s tenure. On the contrary, it helps in leadership recruitment by affording electorates an opportunity to evaluate the credentials, character and pedigree of would- be leaders.
Above all, Barrister Enoidem is not consulting stakeholders in his capacity as National Coordinator of MPM. Before the advent MPM, he had aspired to the senate to the knowledge of every right thinking member of rhe Akwa ibom state political community. This,therefore, reduces the ‘consultation argument’ by his traducers to a figment of the imagination of idle minds.
Thirdly, and above all, the ‘merchants of lies’ want Emmanuel Enoidem brought down, by all means, having realized he has uncompromising integrity, character and a consistent history in elections matters- which makes him an asset for the consummation of the Governor’s succession plan. Thus, they are jittery at Enoidem’s position as Cordinator of MPM, his wealth of political reach/ machinery and operational art- which he would certainly deploy with alacrity, to ensure the Governor has a worthy successor.
In conclusion, permit me to say that, It takes but one person, one moment, one conviction to start a ripple of change. Enoidem is a victim of a win-win political horse trading, characterized by the shrewdest bargaining by contending forces. He “must be brought down”, for the Governor’s succession agenda to fail and for “them” to be Governor of Akwa Ibom State at all cost in 2023. This is, certainly, not an option for Governor Emmanuel and every force of good, Also, for Emmanuel Enoidem, there’s no stopping to shy a stone at barking dogs!
Uwemedimoh Umanah, PhD, a Development scholar, writes in from Abak.
Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem , the National Coordinator of Maintain Peace Movement (MPM) has come under huge criticism lately, in view of his interest/endorsement in the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District ticket for 2023. Those who have followed the series of backlash against him would agree that the media generally has been awash with varying degrees of hate speeches, name-calling, defamations and allegations against the former People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Legal Adviser.
According to multiple sources, those fueling the ugly trend are some governorship aspirants and other aspirants in his senatorial district who feel frightened by his interest and wide acceptance by his senatorial district. As such, political toddlers and those who would simply pass for nonentities have all jumped into making unverified comments on the revered personality of a man whose shoe lace they cannot untie.
For the records, the name ‘Emmanuel Enoidem’ reverbrates authority like the biblical staff of Moses. Enoidem’s personality does not just ring a bell but begins and ends a sitting of any class of people within and outside his senatorial district. Over the years, Emmanuel Enoidem has earned the unflinching respect of every known political figure in Akwa Ibom State, many of whom he single-handedly raised to “God”. His long line of mentees – strip of any form of bias – include persons who have been to the Government House and back; the Federal and State Houses as well as the Red Chambers and returned, not to mention Commissioners, SSAs and SAs. Little wonder he sits unopposed at the helm of affairs of two exalted seats – the MPM and the PDP which he has dutifully served from the days of yore.
While many have questioned Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem’s interest in the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District election, it is imperative to state that the man in question never lobbied, bribed or made himself the National Coordinator of the MPM. He could have not have turned down the request to deliver a task as delicate as maintaining peace having been found worthy. Similarly, the election he is vying for is his personal interest and in no way hinders his MPM duties which will exist beyond 2023 so, why the fuss?
Related to this is the fact that the bye-laws of the MPM does not forbid anyone from holding a political office at all. Otherwise, the State Working Committee Members, Local Government Coordinators and Senators in the Movement would not have been included. It therefore put to death all controversies and insinuations regarding this topic. Enoidem is no less human than other contestants for the ISD race and is not too big for it either. We should learn to be objective in our judgments rather than becloud our thoughts with cheap jealousy.
Meanwhile, these agitations are obviously schemes by opponents to cow the incoming senator away, knowing the weight of his influence but nothing of such will hold sway. The Enoidem we know does not toy with his decisions but goes all out for them. Enoidem is going for the race and will win. Anyone afraid of him should not bother wasting their time and resources contesting against him – those fears will prevail.
A tech hub in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, FutureLabs has received a seed capital of N2 million for equipment upgrade and training.
Barr. Onofiok Luke, member representing Etinan/Nsit Ubium/Nsit Ibom federal constituency, made the donation on Tuesday 11th January during the first anniversary of the company.
Barr. Luke who was the keynote speaker at the maiden anniversary of the tech hub said the donation is to assist the hub get more equipment and train more young Akwa Ibom people who are living in rural communities in the State.
He noted that knowledge of ICT and access to the internet as well as usage was still low among the youths living outside the State capital.
He said more young people who live in the outskirt of the State capital must be given opportunity to acquire ICT skills in order to close the gulf in access and knowledge of digital technology between youths living in the state capital and those in rural areas.
Speaking on the topic “The role of policy in National Development: Startups as case study”, Barr. Luke said the state government must be intentional about development of tech ecosystem in the state, increasing access to broadband internet services and connecting more youths to opportunities in the tech sector.
He emphasised the need for basic and proficiency trainings on ICT for youths and the full integration of ICT education into the school curriculum.
Barr. Luke posited that the goal of the future for Akwa Ibom State should include completing the Ibom Science Park and building an Institute of Telecommunication Engineering where Akwa Ibom youths can be trained to provide engineering solutions to needs in the telecom sector, which he said has the potential of employing a great number of young people strolling the street without jobs.
While urging youths in ICT in the state to come up with contributions that will enrich the National Institute of Technology Development Agency Bill currently before the National Assembly, Luke suggested that part of their advocacy should include stronger copyright protection for tech products.
EXCERPTS OF THE MEETING OF THE STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL OF THE AKWA IBOM STATE GOVERNMENT HELD ON THURSDAY, 30TH DECEMBER,2021 AT THE EXCO CHAMBERS OF THE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE
The meeting commenced at 11am with the rendering of the National and State anthems, after which HE the Deputy Governor, Mr. Moses Ekpo offered the opening prayers.
The meeting was presided by HE the Governor as Chairman-In-Council and had in attendance HE the Deputy Governor, Secretary to the State Government, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Head of the Civil Service, Honourable Commissioners and Special Adviser.
OPENING REMARKS The Governor welcomed members from the Christmas break and reminded that Government cannot afford to go on vacation, as government must work round the clock. He reviewed the security situation in the state and briefed Council on the steps taken to beef up security throughout the end of year and new year season. He reiterated his charge to members to double their efforts in quality service delivery of all projects and policies under their care.
The minutes of the last meeting were read and adopted.
EXCO frowned at the current spate of street trading within the metropolis, even on trunk A roads. The attendant risks and the ongoing defacing of the city caused by this menace were discussed extensively. It was agreed that the Ministries of Environment & Solid Minerals and Transportation, Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency and Security Agencies should take immediate steps to curb the menace.
HEALTH SECTOR REPORT The HC-Health was invited to present a status update on the COVID-19 pandemic. He presented the current status of the pandemic in the nation and state, advising that enlightenment and enforcement of the COVID Protocol be increased to curtail the spread of the virus. He also presented a report on the enforcement of standards for Medical Laboratory Services in the state. He reported that the task force is at work and has apprehended defaulters and closing their facilities.
WASSCE RESULT PERFORMANCE FROM 2019-2021 HC-Education presented a report of the performance of candidates who took the West African Senior School Certificate Examination in the state from 2019-2021. The report showed that the total number of those who took the examination in the years under review were 54,171, 52,207 and 51,771 respectively. The percentage of candidates who passed with credits in 5 subjects or more, including -English Language and Mathematics were 58.55(2019), 68.05(2020), 78.90(2021). The report was received and deliberated exhaustively. While the HC-Education was commended for the upward performance of the candidates, she was charged to improve the performance in the future examinations.
APICO STATUS UPDATE
The report of the status update on the Akwa Ibom Property and Investments Company was presented by the Managing Director, Barr. Patrick Udomfang, showing the current status of the company and suggesting ways of repositioning the company for optimum performance. His report was deliberated and the company was charged to take necessary steps to make the company run profitably. EXCO directed that effective next year, the company will have to generate resources to handle their liabilities . To this end, the MD was charged to reorganise the company for greater productivity.
POWER FOR ALL UPDATE The HC-Power and Petroleum Development presented the update on the Power for all target of the government. He reported that the state had attained 92 percent coverage of all the gazetted villages, in addition to the network optimisation gains. EXCO deliberated the report and directed that the Commissioner should address the Press soon, so as to enlighten the public on the details of the power target.
Motion for adjournment was moved and seconded, while the closing prayer was said by HC-Youths and Sports, Sir Monday Ebong Uko, bringing the meeting to a close at 4:30pm. The national anthem was rendered.
Signed:
Comrade Ini Ememobong Honourable Commissioner for Information & Strategy 30122021
REP. IDEM CALLS FOR SUSTAINED PEACE, LOVE AND UNITY IN UKANAFUN
The Member Representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Unyime Idem has advised the people of Ukanafun to sustain the peace, love and unity which has dominated the area in recent times for harmonious coexistence and rapid development.
He gave the advice at the end of the year get-together organised by the Ukanafun Chapter Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party-PDP at the party secretariat in Ikot Akpa Nkuk, Ukanafun.
Addressing an enlarged stakeholders of the PDP, Idem said that Ukanafun under the political leadership of Obong Eno Akpan and the State Chairman of PDP, Elder Aniekan Akpan is toeing the path of oneness and has transformed the fragile unity of the area into a permanent one which resulted in “United Ukanafun”.
The Deputy Chairman, Communications Committee in the House of Representatives pointed out that there is need for elders, woman and youth to exercise patience, steadfastness and loyalty to the party as the area is blessed with elected and appointed political office holders who are poised to ensure that empowerment of people go round.
The Federal Lawmaker who recently empowered 1,500 of his constituents, commended the Ukanafun Chapter Chairman of the PDP, Mr Godwin Ekpe for hosting the get together, describing it as the right step in the right direction.
Also speaking at the event, the State Chairman of PDP, Elder Aniekan Akpan said that Ukanafun Local Government is currently leading in the e-registration of party members and saluted the ward officers for working with the ward registration agents to achieve the results.
On his part, the Ukanafun PDP chapter Chairman, Mr Godwin Ekpe appreciated all party stakeholders in the area for their support to the party within the year, adding that such synergy has made the party wax stronger.
Christmas 2021: Agric Boss Splashes Bags of Rice, Wrappers, financial support to over 1000 Ini Women …charges women to maintain peace and continue to support Governor Udom’s Completion Agenda
It was an atmosphere filled with songs of appreciation, dance and merriments, Wednesday, 29th December as the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet distributed Christmas packages to the women of Ini LGA cutting accross the eleven wards and numbering over one thousand.
Speaking at a brief presentation ceremony, Dr. Edet noted that the event was in fulfilment of the promise she made to the women few months ago and to celebrate with them in this season of Christmas and new year.
She encouraged the women to be thankful to God and be worthy ambassadors of their gender, irrespective of where they find themselves. While also advising them to take advantage of the ongoing PDP e-registration and revalidation exercise, she enjoined them to remain steadfast in their support for the administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel up until 2023 and beyond.
The Agriculture boss further eulogized the Governor for giving women their pride of place in his administration.
She also appreciated the wife of the Governor, Mrs. Martha Emmanuel for supporting families through her pet projects.
Words of commendations were received from women stakeholders of the area and beneficiaries of the various items distributed by the Honourable Commissioner.
The event had in attendance women groups, female Councillors, Female Supervisors, MPM Women Ward Coordinators, PDP women leaders, stakeholders and other dignitaries from across Ini LGA.
INI MPM COORDINATING COMMITTEE, ELDERS APPRECIATES GOVERNOR UDOM FOR CHRISTMAS GIFTS
Ini chapter coordinating committee of Maintain Peace Movement (MPM) has appreciated Governor Udom Emmanuel for releasing Christmas gifts to all Local Government Areas in the state, including Ini.
In a brief presentation ceremony on behalf of His Excellency, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, which was held on Tuesday, December 28, the Ini chapter coordinator of MPM and Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet presented the items to the MPM Ward Coordinators and Elders drawn from across the eleven wards of Ini extraction.
Dr. Edet who is also the MPM’s National Director of Special Duties, reminded the gathering of the need to continue to demonstrate unflinching loyalty to Governor Udom Emmanuel and wholeheartedly support his succession plan so that the democracy deliverables which have already been attracted to the area will be sustained.
While appreciating the leadership of MPM, she appealed to them to take the ongoing PDP registration seriously.
Also speaking, the Ini MPM Secretary and Member, Ini state constituency, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ekpenyong who is also the MPM National Director of Intelligence lauded the Governor for distributing Christmas packages to Ini MPM and other groups in the state and promised the continued support of Ini stakeholders to the administration of Governor Udom.
Those who also spoke were Hon. Emmanuel Uma, PDP Chapter Chairman, INI, Hon. Saviour Akpan, PDP state officer, Rev. Richard Edikpo, Barr. Essien Essien, Mr. Effiong Udofia, Elder, Hon. Marcus Akpan, Vice Chairman INI LGC among others.
IDEM PAYS GLOWING TRIBUTE TO LATE LADY COMFORT UMOAKPAN.
The Member Representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives,Unyime Idem says late Lady Comfort Sylvanus UmoAkpan, the Headwoman of Ikpe Ekoi Community, in Essien Udim Local Government Area was a virtuous mother whose sterling qualities impacted positively on the lives of her children and several others under her tulage.
Idem stated this in his message of condolence at the funeral event of lady Comfort Umoakpan, conducted by Methodist Church Nigeria and was held at Saint Thomas’ Catholic school, Ikpe Annang in Essien Udim Local Government Area.
Commiserating with the bereaved family, The Federal Lawmaker described the late woman leader as an epitome of peace, humility, gentility and straightforwardness who was always ready to lend a helping hand to those who came in contact with her and believed in selfless service to humanity.
Idem onbehalf of his family and the people of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency prayed God Almighty to grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss and the soul of lady Comfort Umoakpan eternal rest.
Late Lady Comfort Umoakpan, aged 65, was the mother in-law of Obong Saturday Akpan, Commissioner One, Local Government Service Commission, Former Member for Ukanafun State Constituency at the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, and the political leader of Ward one in Ukanafun Local Government Area.
…… Pledges additional 1.6m to petty traders in Okat
Member representing Etinan/ Nsit Ibom/ Nsit Ubium Federal Constituency, Mr Onofiok Luke has donated the sum of One Million Naira (#1m) to Dudu Foundation at its grand launch held in Okat, Onna Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State on Monday.
Luke commended the initiator of the foundation, Edu Offong. He said that her action is noble and should be emulated. He announced an additional 1.6m Naira to petty traders in Okat to help them cope with the economic hardship and difficulty brought about by COVID 19.
The event had in attendance the member representing Ikot Ekpene/ Obot Akara State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Mr Idongesit Ntekpere, traditional rulers and chiefs in Okat, women, youths and others.
As Christians the world over commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ , the Saviour of mankind, The Member Representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Unyime Idem says it will be a disservice to our Lord Jesus Christ, if people do not reflect on the virtues of love, peace and unity that the birth of Christ brought to humanity and seek to live like him.
Rep Idem in his Christmas message to his Constituents said “two thousand years ago, angels heralded the birth of Jesus Christ , our Lord and Savior with the eternal words, ” Glory to God in the highest , and on earth peace, goodwill towards men. “
He therefore called on his people to make the songs of the angels their song and re- commit themselves to giving glory to God for his great love towards them.
Idem , Deputy Chairman Communications Committee in the House of Representatives, explained that the story of Jesus Christ holds several lessons for people, saying that though he was born in the manger , his birth was celebrated in Heaven.
The people’s Representative advised those whose circumstances of birth have been less than ennobling never to give up because heaven may be interested in their future.
While acknowledging the contributions of his Constituents towards a successful outing in 2021, Rep Idem reiterated his Commitment to creating the environment for everyone who may have been impeded by circumstance of birth to rise beyond his or her limitations ,assuring that his representation has opened vaults of opportunity in almost all spheres of life for those who were born in mangers to rise and be what God ordained them to be.
Admitting that Jesus brought peace to earth by his birth, Rep Idem reminded his Constituents that one of the demands of their faith is to live in peace with their neighbors and friends as well as adherents of other Faiths and religions. ” We should have goodwill towards all men in general and our Federal Constituency in particular so that we can weave a new Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency with threads of love.let us use this Celebration to recommit ourselves to the course of making our Constituency the citadel of peace and love.”
He pointed out that Christ’s message of love and hope should aspire his Constituents this Christmas to do their duties to others and see that duty fulfilled In their day to day relationships in order to make the Federal Constituency better.
BEING THE TEXT OF THE CHRISTMAS BROADCAST BY HIS EXCELLENCY, MR. UDOM EMMANUEL, GOVERNOR, AKWA IBOM STATE, GOVERNMENT HOUSE, UYO, DECEMBER 25TH, 2021
Fellow Akwaibomites,
My wife, Her Excellency, Dr. (Mrs.) Martha Udom Emmanuel and I wish you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year in advance!
We are once again enveloped in a mood of festivities, heralding the birth of the Prince of Peace and the Saviour of mankind, our Lord Jesus Christ. This, therefore, is a season of peace, of goodwill, love and giving. This is a season where we should banish all ancient animosities and celebrate our oneness and unity, our development and the strides we are collectively making as a State and as a people. It is a season of joy and thankfulness to God for holding us together as a people and as a State, in spite of the economic difficulties brought about by the Covid -19 pandemic, which unfortunately has now mutated to the Delta and Omicron variants respectively.
It is a season of hope, of our determination to continue to forge ahead and deliver on our campaign promises; to leave this State better than we met her, and to proclaim with certainty that the Akwa Ibom story will not be reversed, that the things which had hitherto defined us negatively as a State and as a people shall be permanently cancelled and erased, and it will be Forward Ever Backward Never!
The season of the Birth of our Lord and Saviour signifies peace and goodwill to mankind, and this peace which we have enjoyed in this State shall be permanent, and any resort or attempts to reverse it and reintroduce the orgy of violence and security challenges that this State had earlier witnessed before now, will, and shall never return.
As we get set to roll out the drums of festivities, let me again reiterate the need for us to follow the simple but effective protocols aimed at curtailing the spread of the Covid- 19 virus. You may have been following in the news the mutation of a new variant called Omicron. At a time the world thought we had turned a corner with this virus, this Omicron variant has returned the world to the starting point. Travel restrictions are being imposed all over the world and some countries have painfully considered another round of lockdowns. Here in Nigeria, and in our State in particular, we have discovered some cases of this Omicron variant and it is incumbent upon us, to do all we can to curtail its spread. The simple protocols of social distancing, regular washing of hands with liquid soaps, the wearing of facemask, use of hand sanitizers etc. plus the robust healthcare facilities we have provided, had helped us a great deal in stemming the spread of this virus when it first appeared on our shores. We should remain committed to doing same with this new variant. We do not intend to impose another round of lock- down. This will however, depend on how we obey the protocols. This is a serious matter and should be treated as such.
As I said during our Christmas Carol event, the Akwa Ibom story must and will continue to be told in enchanting colours and its trajectory of growth and development shall be Forward Ever Backward Never! This motto of progress is what should ring through in our heads and hearts.
Of the thousands of text messages I received congratulating us for holding such a great Christmas Carol, the one that touched me the most, and they all came from prominent Nigerians, was when they congratulated us on the peaceful nature of the event. They couldn’t imagine, in a country where there are security challenges everywhere that almost half a million people could converge in one location, singing praises to the Lord and returning home in peace, with no reported news of death, or attacks of any form.
My dear AkwaIbomites, these are not issues we should take for granted. Our people have found peace amongst themselves. Peace has seen us tap into our creative wells and the entrepreneurial culture is being embraced by our people, especially the youths. We must maintain this peace with every fibre of our beings.
Any one, and I repeat anyone, who, for selfish political purposes, wants to reverse this peace, must, and will be rejected, anyone who aims to grab power through the instrument of violence must be stopped and rejected. And let me even add, anyone who aims at getting power by using violence against his or her people, will end up ruling with violence. May the season of peace which Christmas represents, never see our State go through such politically-motivated years of violence again.
This is not a speech to talk about our achievements, as there will be good enough time in the coming months to continue distilling and projecting, or document what God has used us to achieve collectively for our dear people.
We will however, continue to ensure that issues concerning education, agriculture, health care or the social infrastructure are given the prime attention they deserve. We owe our children the responsibility of preparing them to be competitive in an information technology-driven world; we owe them the right education to make them future employers of labour, as opposed to being job seekers. The new world that is unfolding before us, is one where students learn and imbibe entrepreneurial spirit and skills, aimed at freeing them to explore the world and take a slice of it, through the marketable skills they have acquired.
We remain committed to ensuring that we produce, and at an affordable price, the staple food items for our people, through the robust investments we have made in agriculture.
Our healthcare delivery service remains top in our agenda. We promised to remodel, construct and equip with modern amenities General Hospitals in all the Ten Federal Constituencies. We have successfully done nine; the last in Ikot Abasi is currently on-going.
We promised to provide Power for All by December 2021, which actually means the provision of electricity to the 2,274 gazetted villages that make up this State. As I speak, out of the 2,274 gazetted villages, only 265 villages yet to be connected to the national grid, that’s about 92 percent score in this regard. We hope to connect the remaining 265 villages to the national grid as soon as possible, thus meeting our target in this regard. This is a huge achievement that no State, and I repeat no State can match. This is absolutely the best in the nation and I stand to be corrected. We came to serve; to work diligently and quietly to improve the material and living standards of our people and nothing will distract us from achieving those set goals.
Our infrastructural Renaissance is on the ascendance. Even our naysayers or worst critics will agree with us that all over the State, we are experiencing huge road and other infrastructural expansions. We remain committed to finishing our turn-key projects. Our contractors are out there working at their designated sites, now that we have some respite from the rainy season, and I want to thank them for heeding my directive to remain at site even during this festive season.
Our industrialisation drive remains on course. Part of our Completion Agenda was the promotion of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs), and we are doing just that. Our industrial cluster in Itam today, produces tissue papers made from bamboo fibres. We are producing plastics that are used daily by our people, and the tomatoes purry processing plant is on-going among others. This is in addition to the other industries we have attracted to this State.
My dear Akwaibomites, I have heard some people make rather ill-informed comments to the effect that these industries we have attracted are not owned by the State Government. Fellow Akwaibomites, it is not the duty of any state government to establish or wholly own industries. The main job of a State Government is to create the enabling environment for investors to come to such a state and invest, and to engender Public Private Partnerships (PPP). It however, takes a leader who understands and have established enduring contacts within the corporate world to convince and bring these investors to the state, which thankfully we have done in the last six plus years and still remain committed to doing. I urge us to do a little research before we begin to attack and condemn.
Some people have also taken to the social media to talk about serious issues such as pension and gratuities armed with little knowledge of the subject matter or outrightly misinforming the public. My dear Akwaibomites, as I speak to you, we have paid our pensioners up to date. I repeat we have paid up to date all our pensioners. The Office of Accountant-General regularly publishes this information, yet people, out of mischief and sheer blackmail, are still pushing the lie that we are owing our pensioners.
The issue of gratuity is a national problem. We are a mere subnational and even other higher layers of government are struggling with the issue of the payment of gratuities. In spite of this, we have painstakingly continued to pay gratuities and remain committed to doing so. Part of what I did, within my first few months in office was to settle a backlog of such, between 2002 to 2011, and ever since, in spite of the paucity of funds, we have endeavoured to pay gratuities. People must not loose sense of the fact that we operate a three-tier Government structure: Federal, State and Local Government. Primary Education and Primary Health Care are under the Third Tier of Government and in spite of this we have regularly intervened in the payment of salaries and other benefits. I understand the political season is upon us, and thus the need by some people to score cheap political points, but we should not mislead our people with patent falsehood.
We thank God for the growth of Ibom Air and our overall dedication to our pioneering effort in the Nigerian aviation industry. We are looking forward to receiving our 10 brand new Airbuses in the nearest future, and then expand our routes to the West and Central African regions respectively.
Let me use this opportunity to applaud our very resourceful youths for helping maintain the peace in this State. My dear youths, let me again assure you that what we are putting on ground, the sustainable growth paradigm we are bringing to bear, will create in a few years a new Akwa Ibom you will all be proud to be associated with.
My dear youths of Akwa Abasi Ibom State, growth and personal development is not about someone handing you a hand-out, it is about providing a hand for you to stand up and remain standing. Growth and development is not about someone giving you a teaspoon of water to quench your thirst when you are surrounded by an ocean of opportunities. Growth is not about someone using you to cause mayhem and violence, putting your life on the line in the process, while the person who sent you goes home to spend quality time with his family. Growth is not about someone asking you to hurt your brothers and sisters to feather his or her political nest, only to abandon you soon after he must have achieved his or her purpose. Growth is about using your God-given gifts to add value to yourself, and this is what we have been doing, and we thank you for buying into our vision. Let this season of peace continue to imbue in you, peace that is abundant and unceasing and it will continue to be well with you.
To the political class, I urge you to always remember that politics will come and politics will go, but the soul and spirit of Akwa Abasi Ibom people will remain undilutedly committed to our unity and brotherhood. Let us therefore, eschew bitterness and hatred from our body-politic. All Power belong to God Almighty and He gives such to whom He has qualified. God does not choose a man that is qualified; but he qualifies a man that He chooses.
Finally, as I said during the Christmas Carol, let this season be one of love and of giving. Reach out to those who need help. Give them a reason to be cheerful and hopeful, share in the blessings God has given you and help spread the Christmas cheers and joy. May the Birth of the Prince of Peace usher in peace unlimited in our dear State, as we optimistically look forward to a more prosperous and fruitful New Year enveloped in peace, oneness and shared vision of growth and development. Once again, I wish all of us Akwa Ibomites, a Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year in advance!
DEPUTY SPEAKER, IDRIS WASE TO LEAD MAJORITY LEADER, 40 OTHER FEDERAL LAWMAKERS TO REP. IDEM’S EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMME TODAY
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Idris Wase will be leading the Majority Leader Alhassan Doguwa and forty other federal lawmakers to the 2021 Constituency briefing and Empowerment of 1,500 beneficiaries by the member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Rep. Unyime Idem.
The event scheduled to take place on Monday 20th December by 10am at the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Empowerment Centre will also witness the commissioning of a 1000 seater Agric Development Centre in Ukanafun as well as the commissioning of a state of the art Skills acquisition centre in Oruk Anam local government area.
According to a release signed by Rep. Idem, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel and the wife, Dr (Mrs) Martha Emmanuel are expected as special guests of honour while the Deputy Governor, Mr Moses Ekpo MFR will serve as the guest of honour.
Others invited to attend the mega empowerment programme are Members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, the State Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party and the PDP family, Members of the State Executive Council, the Political leaders in the state, traditional institutions, the Clergy, Council Chairmen, Chairmen of Boards and Parastatals, Stakeholders in Ukanafun and Oruk Anam, proposed 1500 beneficiaries of the 2021 Empowerment, Women and Youths, Students, the people of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency and members of the public.
The annual empowerment programme, the 4th in the series, is a fulfillment of the promise made by the Lawmaker to constantly brief his constituents and empower 5000 youths with life enhancing skills, business support, scholarship, bursary etc. Recall that 1000 constituents were empowered with 26 different life enhancing skills in December 2020.
FEB. 23: A Motion for the immediate and unconditional release of Kagara School boys kidnapped by armed bandits.
MAR. 3: A Motion on the need for active response mechanism to prevent possible outbreak of Ebola in Nigeria.
APR. 22: A Bill to empower NBC regulate tariff of DSTV and other cable TV subscription sponsored by Rep. Idem passed second reading.
MAY 4: A Motion directing Inspector General of Police to investigate the gruesome murder of Miss Iniubong Umoren.
MAY 22: Rep. Idem coffered with the title of ‘Idorenyin (Hope) of Oruk Anam’ by Traditional Rulers Council.
MAY 23: Rep. Idem honoured with Excellent Award by Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State Chapter.
JUNE 2: Conferred with the title of ‘Idorenyin (Hope) of Ukanafun’ during Ukanafun@45.
JUNE 11: Rep. Idem presented his two years scorecard of representation to his constituents.
JUNE 12: Ukanafun Leadership Forum and Political Stakeholders passed a Vote of Confidence on Rep. Idem.
JUNE 14: Oruk Anam PDP and Political Stakeholders passed Vote of Confidence on Rep. Idem.
JUNE 22: Elite Magazine Award as Most Outstanding Federal Lawmaker of the Year (South-South)
JUNE 25: Ukanafun Youth Leadership Forum passed a Vote of Confidence on Rep. Idem
JULY 5: Ukanafun Legislative Council passed a Vote of Confidence on Rep. Idem
JULY 13: House of Representatives Press Corps honoured Rep. Idem as the Most Outstanding Lawmaker in Constituency Development and Apostle of Motions
JULY 15: A Motion mandating federal government to establish Clay Processing Factory in Oruk Anam LGA
JULY 15: Rep. Idem submitted report and recommendations of the Ad-hoc Committee on non-implementation of Pay-as-you-go
JULY 23: Rep. Idem honoured by the Niger Delta Students Union with Outstanding Leadership Award
JULY 26: Rep. Idem facilitated building of e-learning centre and six classroom lecture halls in Akwa Ibom State University
AUG. 3: Niger Delta Youth Parliament scores Rep. Idem high after touring his intervention projects in Ukanafun and Oruk Anam
AUG. 13: Rep. Idem sponsored thirteen constituents for two weeks Digital Literacy training in Rivers State
AUG. 16: Dakadda Ambassadors, Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District honoured Rep. Idem with Award of Excellence in Leadership
SEPT. 11: Lions Club honoured Rep. Idem as Best Lawmaker
Sept. 16: A Motion urging federal government against violation of federal character principles in appointment of heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies
SEPT. 28: Rep. Idem appointed to represent South-South in 7-member Conference Committee in Electoral Act Amendment Bill
SEPT. 30: Rep. Idem facilitated the building of e-learning centre to Comprehensive Secondary School, Ikot Esenam in Oruk Anam LGA
OCT. 5: Bill for an Act to reduce incidents of fire outbreak in Nigeria sponsored by Rep. Idem passed first reading
OCT. 18: Rep. Idem facilitated the construction of six classrooms block to Methodist Primary School, Ikot Akpan Udo, Oruk Anam LGA
OCT. 26: Rep. Idem flagged off 5-days skills training for constituents
NOV. 9: Rep. Idem facilitated the construction of six classrooms block in Migrant Farmers Primary School, Ikot Akpan Nsek in Oruk Anam LGA
NOV. 10: Rep. Idem facilitated the construction of six classrooms block in Government Primary School, Ikot Otoiwuo in Ukanafun LGA
NOV. 11: Rep. Idem facilitated the construction of two classroom blocks in Urban High School, Ikot Akpan Essien in Oruk Anam LGA
NOV. 11: Rep. Idem facilitated the recruitment of five constituents into the Nigeria Police Force
NOV. 15: Rep. Idem facilitated the rehabilitation of NIFOR sub-station in Oruk Anam LGA
NOV. 18: Rep. Idem bagged double awards from Daily Independent Newspaper as Akwa Ibom State Federal Lawmaker of the Year and Federal Lawmaker of the Year, South-South in nation building
NOV. 12: Rep. Idem promised to build a new church for Qua Iboe Church, Usung Atiat
NOV. 27: Akwa Ibom Icons Award honoured Rep. Idem as Best Performing Legislator of the Year
DEC. 3: Rep. Idem sponsored five constituents on two weeks Digital Literacy course in Edo State
DEC. 7: A Motion ordering IGP to take over investigation and prosecution of killers of Dowen student
DEC. 15: Rep. Idem facilitated the recruitment of four constituents into the Nigeria Army
DEC. 20: Rep. Idem briefs and empowers 1,500 constituents and commissions 1,000 seater capacity Agric Development Centre in Ukanafun and state of the art skills acquisition centre in Oruk Anam.
N/B: The Member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency and Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Communications has embarked on 44 life touching projects, moved 16 Motions and sponsored 16 Bills on the floor of the House of Representatives in the last thirty months.
On behalf of my family and the people of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, I wish His Excellency, Senator (Dr.) Abubakar Bukola Saraki CON a happy birthday.
Your Excellency, your life has been that of service to the Nigerian people. You exhibited rare leadership prowess as Governor of Kwara State and as the 13th President of the Nigerian Senate and Chairman of Nigeria’s 8th National Assembly, you defended the independence of the Federal legislature at the detriment of your political career.
You have continued to show leadership and mentorship with the many initiatives and programs you continue to facilitate.
Happy birthday, Waziri Illorin!
Rep Unyime Idem Member, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria
REP. IDEM SET TO BRIEF AND EMPOWER 1,500 CONSTITUENTS
… 1000-Seater Capacity Agric Development Centre for commissioning
The Deputy Chairman House Committee on Communications and member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Rep. Unyime Idem is set for his 2021 Constituency briefing and Empowerment of 1,500 beneficiaries. The release signed by the Ukanafun born Lawmaker also states that the 1000-seater capacity Agric Development Centre will be commissioned during the event.
The annual empowerment programme, the 4th in the series, is a fulfillment of the promise made by the Lawmaker to constantly brief his constituents and empower 5000 youths with life enhancing skills, business support, scholarship, bursary etc. Recall that 1000 constituents were empowered with 26 different life enhancing skills in December 2020.
The release states that the epoch-making event is scheduled to take place on Monday, 20th December 2021 by 10am at the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Empowerment Centre, No 3 Barracks Road beside Divisional Police Headquarters Ukanafun L.G.A.
Subsequently, Rep. Idem has invited the State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, his Wife, Dr. Mrs. Martha Udom Emmanuel, the Deputy Governor, Mr Moses Ekpo MFR, to attend.
The Leadership and members of the National Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, are billed to grace the occasion as a show of solidarity to one of their colleagues.
Others invited to attend the mega empowerment programme are Members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, the State Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party and the PDP family, Members of the State Executive Council, the Political leaders in the state, traditional institutions, the Clergy, Council Chairmen, Chairmen of Boards and Parastatals, Stakeholders in Ukanafun and Oruk Anam, proposed 1500 beneficiaries of the 2021 Empowerment, Women and Youths, Students, the people of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency and members of the public.
GOV. EMMANUEL INAUGURATES UNTRA-MORDEN CIVIC CENTRE
An ultra-modern civic centre at Ikwe, Onna LGA, built and delivered by a retired Permanent Secretary in the Akwa Ibom state Civil Service, Elder Ezekiel Umoh has been inaugurated, Friday, December 17, by Governor Udom Emmanuel.
Represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture who is also the Dean of Commissioners/Advisers, Dr. Glory Edet, noted that the Governor was proud of the efforts of Elder Umoh towards supporting his administration’s infrastructural consolidation.
While congratulating Elder Ezekiel Umoh on his 25th marriage anniversary celebration and his successful retirement from service, Dr. Edet also described Elder Umoh as an ardent follower of the Governor and appreciated him for supporting the completion agenda of the Governor.
The Agriculture boss while thanking the people of Ikwe, also urged them not to relent in their support for Governor Udom Emmanuel and his succession plan.
Earlier in his remarks, the immediate past Permanent Secretary of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Elder Ezekiel Umoh thanked the people of Ikwe for being peaceful and for standing by the administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel and for supporting him throughout his service years.
While thanking God for His mercies throughout his stay in service, he also noted that the construction of the ultra-modern civic centre was in appreciation of what the Governor has done for the people of Ikwe through him. He further reaffirmed his commitment and that of the entire people of Ikwe to the completion agenda of the Governor.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Onna Local Government Council, Honourable IniAbasi Ekanem appreciated Elder Umoh for providing the facility for his people and urged them to continue in their support for the administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel up until 2023 and beyond.
Those who also spoke were Obong Mfon Umaidet, the youth leader of Ikwe, Comrade Nsikan Gregory Dickson, the Village Head of Ikwe, Eteidung Friday Robinson Inyang, Deputy Village Head, Pastor Victor Udofia, Chief Samuel Ekaso, Village Head of Odio among others.
Hon. Godwin Inyieng Receives an Award of Honour from Nigerian Students
… Seeks to revive the culture of Scholarship to Students of Tertiary Institutions.
The Executive Chairman of Ukanafun LGA; Hon. Pastor Godwin Inyieng, was today presented with an Award of Honour for his selfless service, passion and commitment to the development of education and scholarship among the students community of the LGA, by the National Association of Ukanafun Students, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua Chapter.
The delighted erudite Chairman thanked the Union for the encouraging honour and charged them to remain focused in their chosen academic endeavours, reminding them that education remains the bedrock of every striving society.
Hon. Inyieng, gave them the opportunity to nominate students from their institution to be awarded scholarship to aid their academic pursuits and pledged his unalloyed commitments to the promotion of good education towards a guaranteed peaceful, secured and prosperous society.
Establish Special Intervention Fund for Judiciary, … Hon. Onofiok Luke.
The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Judiciary, Hon. Barr. Onofiok Luke yesterday called for the establishment of a special intervention fund for the judiciary to enable it to perform its competing demands and challenges.
Luke made the call while on an oversight visit, with some of his Committee members, to Federal judicial establishments in Lagos.
The team, who visited the Court of Appeal, Federal High Court and the National Industrial Court in the Ikoyi area of the state, stated that the government must provide better living and working conditions for our judicial officers in the court.
Luke while addressing Journalists at the end of the visit said that the 2021 budget proposal from the National Judicial Council (NJC) for the judiciary is about N180 billion but it only got about N120 billion which is a far cry from the needed funding.He, therefore, insisted that the judiciary needs an intervention fund if the country wants to properly fund the third arm of government.
The lawmaker said, “If we can have an intervention fund for the entertainment industry or if the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) can have an intervention fund for the Agric sector there is need for a special intervention fund for the judiciary in the sum of N100 billion or N200 billion.
“This would take care of infrastructure, the welfare, emoluments and salaries of judicial workers”.
“The last time there was a review of the salaries of the judicial workers in Nigeria was about 13 years ago. if we are asking them not to be corrupt, though I am not saying poverty is an excuse to be corrupt, they must be well taken care of because we are all buying from the same market.
“With what we have seen on the ground in Lagos we are committed to improving the administration of justice in Nigeria, the House under the Honourable Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila is also committed to judicial reforms.
“So, it is our goal to create an enabling environment for the judiciary to operate. At the Court of Appeal we saw what was done there, the new retrofitted courtroom done by the NJC and we are going to recommend that this should be done across the country”.
“We are going to look at the budget and recommend that more retrofitted courtrooms should be done,” Luke said.
Also speaking during the visit, the Chief Registrar of the Federal High Court, Emmanuel Gakko revealed that the new court complex under construction will be completed by March 2022.
According to him, the building which started in 2011 is about 81 per cent completed and that the contractors have promised to deliver the project unfailingly by the first quarter of next year.
Gakko thank the Federal government, the National Assembly and the NJC for the support it has given to the project which he maintained will improve the productivity of the judges and other support staff.
On his part, the Deputy Chief Registrar of the Court of Appeal, Hassan Suleiman, called on the Lawmakers to intervene and prevent the revocation of the residence of the President of the Court in Lagos.
Suleiman alleged that some people are interested in taking over the property which was allocated to the court in 1978 by the federal government.
He also called for more funding to enable the appellate court to renovate the court building which was damaged during the aftermath of the #ENDSARS protest.
THE WORKINGS OF THE AKS MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE: HIGHLIGHT ON THE CULTIVATION OF ONION
Bulb onion or common onion, is a vegetable that is the most widely cultivated species of the genus Allium, low in calories yet high in nutrients, including vitamins B and C, and potassium. Research has also shown that eating onions may help reduce heart disease risk factors, such as high blood pressure, elevated triglyceride levels and inflammation amongst other benefits.
In Nigeria, onion is grown mostly in Kano, Kaduna, Jigawa, Sokoto, Plateau, Bauchi and Kebbi States, posing a big question on why Onions are not grown in south-south.
In early March 2021, Akwa Ibom dared to change the narrative having witnessed an unprecedented increase in the cost of onions to immediately venture into the production of onions for its citizenry and for export to other states.
Saddled with the responsibilities of interpreting the agricultural vision of the Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, and with her wealth of experience in modern Agriculture, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet, led the entire Ministry for onions cultivation. This started with raising of nurseries of the important crop which the seedlings were later transplanted at the Victor Attah Green House and at Ebighianwa plantation. Interestingly, the crops did well and were harvested and sold at the local markets across the state.
Today, with the huge investment of the Governor in Agriculture, Akwa Ibom state now ranks amongst states with best grown onions and other vegetables which were once alien to the state.
Also, a total number of over two hundred farmers were trained on onions cultivation.
Governor Udom is working! A’Ibom Ministry of Agriculture is working!
Dowen College, 5 Children, 3 Hostel Parents Have Been Remanded In Custody
A new statement has been released by the management of Dowen College, Lagos confirming that five of its students and three house parents are currently in detention over the controversial death of one of its students, 11-year-old Sylvester Oromoni.
In the statement addressed to parents and guardians, the school principal said the school has been working with the authorities and the Oromoni to ensure that justice is served. The principal pointed out that five students and three hostel parents have been taken into custody but that it isn’t an admission of guilt or wrongdoing.
The principal also added that following the preliminary investigations, the management hopes that the Ministry of Education will let the school have a timeline for next term.
The statement reads,
”Dear Parents/Guardians As we continue to commiserate with the entire Oromoni family, we also extend our condolences to our students, parents, staff and indeed the entire Dowen College family on the demise of our beloved son Slyvester.
We would like to extend our appreciation to all our parents and guardians for their calls, messages, advice and encouragement as we navigate this difficult time together.
We would also like you to know that we are working together with the relevant authorities and the Oromoni family to ensure that justice is seen and served in this matter. We understand and appreciate your anxiety and support. We plan to do all that we can to ensure that the education and future of our dear children is not mortgaged.
Investigations are moving along and we continue to work with all the relevant authorities.
1) So far all five of the children suspected have been remanded in custody as well as the three hostel parents. Please note this is NOT an admission of guilt or wrongdoing but part of their process.
2) The school and members of the Oromoni family have met cordially with the Commissioner of Police to discuss the matter and the way forward.
3) There will be an autopsy in Lagos and the school will have its own pathologist present as well. We pray that following the preliminary investigations the Ministry of Education will let us have a timeline for next term.
4) The Board of Governors of the school is also willing to meet with representatives of our parents for discussions at the appropriate time. In addition, we wish to inform you that the school is revising and strengthening its Health and Safety Policies and procedures.
To curtail any future reoccurrence of similar alleged incident. We will reeducate and reinforce culture and discipline and review our reporting and disciplinary procedures and sanctions for increased safety and accountability. Going forward it will not be business as usual. We solicit for your continued prayers, patience and understanding.
Marriage is a critical institution for societal development – Rep. Idem
The Deputy Chairman, Communications Committee in the House of Representatives and Member for Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Unyime Idem has urged couples to build their marriage foundation on God so that they help in contributing to national stability and development.
Idem spoke at the Holy Ghost Ambassadors Ministry, Uyo during the 16th marriage anniversary Thanksgiving of the Senior Pastor, Apostle Nyeneime Andy .
The lawmaker described marriage as one of the critical institutions that helps in nation building. He pointed out that a good marriage produces good parenting which give rise to good children that will eventually help in producing a good society.
He attributed anti social vices that is confronting Nigeria’s society to lack of effective parenting and therefore enjoined couples to build their unions on godly foundation.
Idem thanked God for the 16 years of unbroken marriage, commitment, dedication and unbroken love witnessed by Apostle Andy and wife and prayed God to continue to make the union to wax stronger.
He described Apostle Andy as a man of God that possesses eight areas of calling as recorded in 1 Corinthians 12 verse 28, adding that Apostle Andy is also a prophet, teacher, whom God uses to perform Miracles, with the gift of healings among others.
Highpoint of the anniversary was the cutting of cake and special prayer for the family of the celebrator.
Ukanafun Chairman Announces 2nd Phase of Roads Grading and Maintenance
… Donates to support Church Work in Qua Iboe Church, Okoyo
The Executive Chairman, Ukanafun LGA; Hon. Pastor Godwin Inyieng, today brings smiles and excitement to the good people of his local government when he announced the readiness of his administration to commence the 2nd phase of rural-urban roads grading and maintenance.
The Journalist turned Politician, made this known today in Qua Iboe Church, Okoyo, during the Church Thanksgiving and Fund-raising Services held today by the Church. “My Administration will cease this dry season opportunity to commence the 2nd phase of our infrastructure development especially, in the area of rural-urban roads maintenance and grading, and I promise to make Okoyo, the starting point on this phase”.
You will recall, on his assumption of office, this time last year, he quickly embarked in rural-urban roads maintenance and grading to create and improve accessibility towards economic recovery of the hitherto crisis-ridden local government.
Pastor Inyieng, an ordained clergy himself, made an handsome donation towards the fundraising ceremony along with other attendees of the occasion for the ongoing church auditorium project in Okoyo.
The Chairman equally adviced the youths to shun every form of cultism, violence and other social vices as his administration will not entertain deviant behaviours.
CLOSURE OF IDONGESIT NKANGA AVENUE (RING ROAD III) BY ORON ROAD
In order to ensure speedy completion of work on Idongesit Nkanga Avenue (Ring Road III), His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel has authorised the closure of the Idongesit Nkanga Avenue by Oron Road roundabout axis of the project.
The closure, which will last for 14 days, effective today, 10th December 2021, is to afford the contractors handling the project ample time, devoid of human and vehicular obstruction, to perfect the roundabout and its concomitants, needed for excellent delivery of the project.
Motorists and other road users are hereby implored to watch out for, and be guided by Road Signs erected by the contractors, indicating alternative routes, for ease of their movement around the area.
The temporary inconvenience is highly regretted.
Signed:
Comrade Ini Ememobong Honourable Commissioner for Information & Strategy December 10, 2021
GOVERNOR UDOM EMMANUEL EULOGIZES FAMILY OF BISHOP GABRIEL NKENANG …as Mr.&Mrs. Kokoette tie nuptial knot
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, HE Mr. Udom Emmanuel has charged couples to love each other and imbibe the culture of consistent prayer so that their homes may be blessed.
The Governor who was represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Dean, College of Commissioners/Special Advisers, Dr. Glory Edet, gave the charge at the traditional marriage ceremony of Barr. Kokoette and Barr. Glory Nkenang, daughter of Bishop Gabriel Nkanang, the General Overseer of Word Terbanacle, which was held today, Thursday December, 9 at the Shelter Afrique open field, Uyo.
Dr. Edet appreciated Bishop Nkenang for grooming his daughter in a way that is pleasing to God and noted that marriage is an institution ordained and honoured by God. She advised the couple against comparing themselves with others and charged them to be submissive one to the other and love each other as recorded in the Bible.
The event also had in attendance the Attorney General and Honourable Commissioner for Justice, Uko Udom SAN, clergymen and other dignitaries from all walks of life.
Ephraim Inyang-eyen: Servant-Leader Par Excellence
Iniubong ANAKO
It is often reasoned that opportunities, circumstances, exploits, challenges, happenstances and other factors determine the success or failure of any given leadership.
It is also reasoned that the solutions to leadership demands lie deep within the knowledge base and capacity of those entrusted to lead in service. This school of thought is in line with the fact that gifted leaders don’t just do lead per se; they serve and invariably achieve feats labelled as leadership antecedents. A peep into the profile of Akparawa Ephraim Inyangeyen, the Chief of Staff to Governor Udom Emmanuel, reveals that his personage fit into the aforementioned template.
One cannot but agree that he has earned respect through his vision, doggedness, courage and wisdom. Philanthropy is another area where he has left indelible imprints. His background in the security service must have shaped him into the upright and no-nonsense character he has become. One of the most telling demonstrations of his leadership abilities comes at challenging times when there is a scarcity of brave men to make things work.
When the Udom Emmanuel administration ends in 2023, one of the popular figures whose antecedents would be reviewed and applauded is Inyangeyen.
From his early days as Works Commissioner, till now that he is occupying the office of Chief of Staff to the Governor, Akparawa Inyangeyen has demonstrated zest which deserves a cursory perusal for the sake of emulation.
As Works Commissioner, he ensured the workability of the current administration through execution of developmental projects which would definitely stand the test of time. To ensure strict adherence to best standards and practices, he personally monitored the award, execution and even payment for government projects and contracts. And to ensure that the projects are executed according to specification, he was always on ground with the contractors at project site. The energy and dedication, things worth admiring.
At places where some bottlenecks existed, he ensured that proper mediation and negotiation is done to ensure smooth progress of projects. Compensations were duly paid to communities and owners of demolished structures to facilitate quick completion of projects.
Furthermore, in order to be abreast with the needs and challenges faced by contractors in his Ministry, Mr. Inyang-Eyen holds regular meetings with them to brainstorm on how best to deliver their jobs.
Words alone cannot vividly describe every tinge of his antecedent in the ministry, but it is worth stating that his achievements earned him a record two-term stint in that office.
His reliability and effectiveness duly acknowledged by all in main the Governor, who later appointed him as his Chief of Staff. The job description of a Chief of Staff entails being the principal staff officer who is the coordinator of the supporting staff or a primary aide-de-camp to an important individual, such as a president, or a senior military officer, or leader of a large organization.
To further put it into context, Wikipedia explains that “a chief of staff provides a buffer between a chief executive and that executive’s direct-reporting team. The chief of staff generally works behind the scenes to solve problems, mediate disputes, and deal with issues before they are brought to the chief executive. Often chiefs of staff act as a confidant and advisor to the chief executive, acting as a sounding board for ideas. Ultimately the actual duties depend on the position and the people involved.” And Ephraim Inyang-eyen has not disappointed his admirers in that role. His admirable synergy with the Governor quite a case study in political administration.
Inyangeyen has consistently exhibited servant-leadership at the forefront, assessing situations, evaluating options, and encouraging effectiveness in government and polity.
Although traits are quite developed for natural leadership, certain individuals are, without doubt, born natural leaders. He falls in the latter category. Balancing on his self-assurance and privileged position as a key player in the state, he stands tall in the scheme of things.
Couching his exploits with philanthropy catapults him to greater heights. During his recent birthday celebration, November 25, 2021 precisely, Ephraim turned it to an avenue of being a blessing to others. He stopped over at Ikot Abasi General Hospital and cleared patients’ hospital bills and gave them transport to return home, visited Children of God’s Liberty Home, Oron where he donated provisions, food items, toiletries and cash gifts.
The servant leader then proceeded to Nations Children’s Center, Akpanawan Street, Eket, donated provisions, food items, toiletries, and cash gifts, adopted two children and gave them scholarships to tertiary education. And rounded up the birthday visitation tour in his hometown as he stormed Motherless Baby Home, Mkpok Onna, where he alongside the wife, Mrs Ime adopted a baby boy, donated provisions, food items, toiletries, and cash gifts to the children.
The Onna firebrand politician gave full scholarship to Miss Comfort, a 400 level Chemical Engineering student of Akwa Ibom State University, the Student Union’s Vice President, before rounding off the day by donating cars to his traditional rulers, Clan Head of Onion, Etebom Barr Samuel Efik and Village Head of Ikot Ebiere Onna LGA., Eteidung Maxwell Ekpoisia, That is vintage Ephraim Inyangeyen.
Despite these, his strict nature often draw the criticisms and attacks from those who cannot stand his bluntness. The expression that says as leaders, we prove our capacity when we gain the ability to focus despite distractions, luckily, is not lost on Inyangeyen. Distraction seems to have become a standard but one that natural born leaders are fortunate to be well equipped to duck. He does not allow trivialities to become urgencies in his affairs.
It is obvious the journey has not been easy for him but he has so far shown a lot of good qualities of an effective servant-leader in the presence of encumbrances, which crowns the success being recorded by him on every front.
IniubongAbasi ANAKO is a Public/Political Affairs Analyst, writes from Iman Ibom
NIGERIA LEAGUE OF FEMALE VOTERS HOLDS SENSITIZATION CAMPAIGN AGAINST GENDER BASED VIOLENCE … as Dr. Glory Edet condemns sexual harassment, gender-based violence
Akwa Ibom women under the aegis of League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV) have come together to lend their voices to the continuing fight against sexual harassment and all forms of gender-based violence.
The event which started with a sensitisation road walk and later climaxed at the Governor’s office Annex, Wellington Bassey way, Uyo, was attended by female appointees of Government, women political stakeholders and other women drawn from across the 31 LGAs of Akwa Ibom state.
In her admonition to the women, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture who is also the Dean of Commissioners and Special Advisers, Dr. Glory Edet noted that the event is in line with the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence activities.
“As privileged women, we have to be a voice to the voiceless women. There are women that do not know what to do when they’re victimised, so one of the major things God wants us to do as leaders is to be there for others and that is why as Akwa Ibom women, we will make sure the law take its course on anyone caught in the act of abusing and molesting our women”, she said.
She charged the participants to be vigilant and report all cases of rape and other gender-based violence to relevant authorities.
“We won’t leave any stone unturned in the fight against rapists, irrespective of who the person is”, she added.
The Agriculture boss appreciated Governor Udom Emmanuel for being gender-sensitive and for signing the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law and the full implementation of the Child’s Right Law.
Also in her remarks the Deputy Speaker of the AKHA and Chairperson of NILOWV, Rt. Hon. Felicia Bassey stressed that the women of Akwa Ibom state will never relent in their fight against sexual harassment and gender-based violence in the State.
“We are here to ensure there is no hiding place for rapists, no matter who they are or how highly placed in the society”, she added.
She called on the general public to be on the watch and report all suspected cases of rape and gender-based violence to relevant authorities for necessary actions.
Goodwill messages were received from the Member, Ukanafun State Constituency, Honourable Dr. (Mrs.) Charity Ido, Honourable Emem Ibanga, Chairman, Nsit Atai LGC, Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Ini Adiakpan, Comrade Idongesit Micah, SA Project Monitoring and others.
The event also featured an overview on the 16 days activism delivered by Dr. Nsekpong Udo and a brief talk on on sexual/gender-based violence and violence against persons prohibition law by Barr. Ofonime Etuknwa.
TAKE OVER INVESTIGATION, PROSECUTION OF KILLERS OF DOWEN STUDENT, OTHERS, REPS ORDER IGP
The House of Representatives has ordered the Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, to immediately take over the investigation of the circumstances, which led to the death of a student of Dowen College, Lekki, the late Sylvester Oromoni.
He is also to investigate other similar killings and human rights abuses earlier reported in boarding schools across the country and see to the prosecution of the perpetrators.
Oromoni’s death, the rising cases of abuses and cult-related activities in boarding schools in the country, came up in the House under matters of public importance on Tuesday.
A member from Akwa Ibom State, Rep. Idem Unyime, who moved the motion, urged his colleagues to strongly condemn such abuses, which he noted could ultimately destroy the future of young people.
He stated, “The victims of these abuses are our constituents. They are the people we represent here.
“We have to rise up to defend them and safeguard their future.
“Cases of bullying in the Nigerian boarding school system have been on the increase.
“The Federal Government should launch a national campaign against bullying and killings in boarding schools.”
In passing the resolution, the House also called on the Federal Ministry of Education to “set out proper guidelines on the operation of boarding schools in Nigeria.”
Members, who contributed to the motion, observed that the absence of proper guidelines had exposed the operation of the boarding school system to the discretion of the owners, particularly private operators.
The resolution was unanimously endorsed by members at the session, which was presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Rep. Ahmed Idris Wase.
ITU LEADERS FORUM CONGRATULATES MR AKAN OKON ON DILIGENCE
The leadership of Itu Leaders Forum congratulates their son, Mr. Akan Okon, Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Economic Development and Ibom Deep Seaport for his sterling performance in the discharge of his duties as a member of the State Executive Council.
This recognition by the Forum is well deserved in view of the strategic roles he has so far played in helping to transform, in his assigned duties, His Excellency, Governor UDOM Emmanuel’s vision into tangible realities. Forum notes that Mr Okon has never been found wanting in any assigned responsibility, starting from the Ministry of Economic Development up to that of Finance, Housing and Special Duties as well as Aviation and Ibom Deep Seaport.
The Forum hereby expresses joy over his performance and urges him to see this recognition as a call from his kinsmen to redouble efforts in the discharge of his responsibilities in a manner that will certainly rub off on the successful anchorage of the Completion Agenda of His Excellency, the Governor.
The Forum also expresses thanks to Governor Udom Emmanuel and celebrates his giant strides in human capital and infrastructural development in critical sectors of the State economy, particularly the aviation and maritime sectors.
DR. GLORY EDET INTERFACES WITH ALL VILLAGE YOUTH PRESIDENTS IN INI LGA …galvanizes support for Governor Emmanuel
The Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet on Monday, December 6, met with youth presidents of Ini LGA. The meeting which according to her was to foster unity and galvanize more support for the succession plan of Governor Udom Emmanuel was held at her Ikpe Ikot Nkon residence.
Addressing the youths, Dr. Edet extolled the leadership qualities of the Governor and praised him for the developmental strides his administration has recorded in the area.
She appreciated the coordinators and other leaders of Village Youths for their notable efforts at making sure there is peace in all the villages of Ini LGA.
“This is not the first time I am hosting village youths since I became Honourable Commissioner. This is because I recognize your importance in our community in particular and the Government of Governor Udom Emmanuel at large”, she said.
She enjoined the youths to take the ongoing PDP e-registration and revalidation exercise seriously.
In his response, the Local Government Village Youth President, Mr. Akaniyene Ndarake appreciated the Commissioner for always interfacing with them and assured her that the youths of Ini are solidly behind the Governor and his succession plan.
Also in his remarks, the Ini PDP Chapter Chairman, Honourable Emmanuel Umah thanked the Coordinators of Village Youths in Ini and charged them to always be law-abiding and loyal to constituted authorities.
Those who also spoke were, Mr. Joseph Nse Udo, village youth coordinator ward 1, Mr. Anietie Udoudoh, village youth coordinator, Ward 6, amongst others. They all spoke glowingly of the Governor and pledged their continued support for his administration.
INI CHAPTER CHAIRMAN RECEIVES OVER 450 APC DECAMPEES INTO PDP IN INI …Dr. Glory Edet advices repentant decampees to be loyal to Governor Udom Emmanuel
Over four hundred and fifty members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have on Monday, December 6, defected into the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) in Ini LGA of Akwa Ibom state.
The supporters drawn from different wards of the area were received into the PDP fold, at a brief ceremony which was held at the PDP chapter secretariat, Odoro Ikpe, by the Chapter Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Umah
In her advice to the decampees, Dr. Glory Edet, who is the MPM National Director of Special Services as well as the Local Government Coordinator of MPM commended them for summoning the courage to take the “right decision to join the winning party”
The Agriculture boss. admonished the decampees to remain steadfast and not allow themselves to be misled any longer as the PDP Government under Governor Udom Emmanuel is carrying everyone along. She also told them to participate in the ongoing PDP e-registration and revalidation exercise.
In his remarks, the Ini PDP Chapter Chairman, Honourable Emmanuel Uma welcomed the legion of decampees to the fold of PDP and assured them that “the Umbrella is big enough to accommodate all of you”. He lauded Governor Udom Emmanuel for all he has done for Ini and reaffirmed the loyalty of his party faithfuls to Governor Udom and his succession plan.
In their separate remarks, Sir Michael Ebio, Leader of the decampees and Honourable Aniefiok Offiong, Former Councillor, Ward 2 denounced their membership of the broom wielding sect and pledged allegiance to the PDP and Governor Udom Emmanuel.
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