Okon Bassey in Uyo 

Champion Breweries Plc has marked a transformative milestone in its 49-year history by announcing its first-ever dividend payment following a year of outstanding financial performance. 

The announcement was made during the company’s 49th Annual General Meeting (AGM), held virtually with shareholders joining from Uyo and Lagos.

The Board Chairman, Pastor Imo-Abasi Jacob, described 2024 as a watershed year for the company and confirmed the board’s approval of a N15 billion capital raise via green bond. 

He further announced plans to seek an additional capital raise through a public offer to support facility upgrades, asset expansion, and increased operational capacity.

“To further strengthen our growth agenda,” Pastor Jacob stated that, “Champion Breweries Plc will launch a Green Bond Programme to finance renewable energy and modernization projects, alongside a Commercial Paper Programme to boost short-term liquidity. While others struggled, Champion Breweries Plc stood tall, We are now strategically positioned for even greater capital market engagement.”

The Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Inalegwu Adoga, attributed the historic achievement to disciplined execution, a resilient workforce, and unwavering stakeholder confidence. 

Speaking on the company’s 2025 theme, “Elevate and Accelerate: Growing Champion Profitably, Productively, and Sustainably,” Dr. Adoga highlighted a breakthrough year.

Adoga emphasized the dividend payment as a defining moment, underscoring the company’s turnaround and commitment to delivering long-term shareholder value. 

He credited the company’s strategic clarity and operational discipline for laying the foundation for sustained growth. 

He also reaffirmed Champion Breweries Plc’s commitment to local sourcing, affordability, and maintaining a debt-free balance sheet amid ongoing economic challenges.

Entering 2025 with strong momentum, Champion Breweries reported an exceptional first quarter. Profit before tax rose by 318% year-on-year, while Q1 revenue grew by 94% to ₦8.48 billion, with expenses tightly controlled. 

Adoga announced ambitious targets for the year, including plans to double revenue and quadruple profit after tax by year-end, supported by a clear growth roadmap and the near completion of its green energy transition.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Government has emphasised that it has no dispute with Cross River State over the ownership of the 76 oil wells in the State.

Akwa lbom State Governor, Umo Eno, said this at the weekend, during the monthly prayer meeting held at the Government House Chapel, Uyo.

Eno stressed that the Supreme Court had twice ruled in favor of Akwa Ibom State, declaring Cross River a non-littoral State.

He urged citizens of the State not to engage in a matter that had been legally settled.

Eno also harped on the importance of respecting and honouring past and present leaders of the State for their contributions to the State’s development.

 He condemned external influences attempting to discredit Akwa Ibom leaders without factual evidence.

“It is difficult to understand how individuals who are not from Akwa Ibom seek to run down our leaders on baseless allegations.

“As Governor, I can confidently say that I have seen no evidence supporting such false accusations against our past leaders,” he added.

The Governor encouraged citizens to continue praying for the State, the President, and the nation, emphasising the need for divine guidance in governance.

He also urged contractors and business owners to take advantage of the newly launched state procurement portal, which provides transparent access to government contracts.

Ene announced that over 400 jobs are currently available through the portal and encouraged qualified individuals to register.

“We have several projects, including the construction of the Aviation Village, Commissioners’ Quarters, Legislators’ Quarters, and Judges’ Quarters.

“We will not award multiple projects to one person. These contracts will be given to qualified Akwa Ibom people who are duly registered on the portal.”

Eno stressed his commitment to fairness in contract awards, maintaining that opportunities should be based on merit rather than personal connections.

“We must build a state where people can bid for and secure government jobs without knowing anyone in power,” he stated.

He also discouraged idleness, urging citizens to embrace hard work and self-sufficiency.

 “Do not sit at home while others are working and expect us to bring you money. When you work, you will be paid for your efforts and earn your profits.”

Commending the successful organisation of the Town Hall/Town Square meeting at the Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency and the seamless execution of the Equipment Support Scheme program at Uyo Township Stadium, the Governor said both events were conducted without incidents or disruptions.

He announced that the next Town Square Meeting would be held in Oron Federal Constituency, with the date to be communicated soon.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has described as false, and spurious rumours that his predecessor in office, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has a case to answer over an allegation of fraud before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

He said the allegations of misappropriation of N700bn by the immediate past governor of the state is not only false but totally unfounded.

The Governor spoke during a Town Hall meeting with the people of Abak Federal Constituency at the Abak Township Stadium stressing that Udom Emmanuel served the state meritoriously and deserves gratitude.

Mr. Udom Emmanuel had visited the EFCC headquarters in Abuja recently to honour an invitation which a section of the media reported that he was being held by the anti- graft agency in relation to an alleged 700billion naira fraud under his watch.

Governor Eno, dismissed the rumours, saying such figures and allegations are unknown to his government.

Eno said the attitude of people trying to drag down leaders who sacrificed for the common good of the people, tends to discourage people from committing to service.

His words: “Because at the end of the day, the people don’t show you that gratitude.

“When a man has served his state meritoriously like Deacon Udom Emmanuel did, honestly, he should be honoured, he should be respected.

“And so, I don’t see a place for this kind of information that is going on. It’s not correct.

“I don’t believe it should go on. I don’t believe so. So, I don’t know where they get the figures from. I don’t know where they churn it out from, but I can tell you as a sitting Governor, that it is not correct.

“It is not true. The media trial must and should stop forthwith. And we need to dismiss this issue with a pinch of salt”, the Governor stated.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

The House of Representatives has expressed dissatisfaction over the domination of China and other parts of the world in the importation of electric meters and other finished products into Nigeria.

The lower Chamber of the National Assembly pointed out that the items can be manufactured in the country saying such is not helping local investors, growth of the economy, job creation and foreign exchange earnings

Accordingly, the House proposed measures to halt the importation of electricity meters and other finished products that can be manufactured in the country.

It called for imposition of special tariffs and removal of waivers for imported meters and other items as some of the strategies to stop the practice and boost local production.

Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Power, Victor Nwokolo, disclosed this yesterday during the committee’s visit to the Metering Solutions Manufacturing Services Limited (MSMSL), Onna, in Akwa Ibom State.

Nwokolo decried the importation of meters from China and other parts of the world as it was not helping local investors, growth of the economy, job creation and foreign exchange earnings.

He stressed that the administration of President Bola Tinubu has achieved giant strides in the power sector, adding that the Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI) was doing well in its assignment.

He said: “The new agenda of the President Bola Tinubu administration is to encourage local investors. To achieve this, we must conserve our foreign exchange, increase the value of the Naira by patronizing local manufacturers.

“The Nigerian Local Content Law must be considered. It is not going to be business as usual by allowing the Chinese bring in finished products. The negative effect of bringing in meters and other finished products is that how do our teeming youths get employment?

“When those imported meters get bad who repairs them for you? Let’s patronize our local manufacturers. When they get bad, we can return them to the Discos. All they need to do is put them through their computers, get them repaired and returned to you.

“There is no point giving waivers to the Chinese to import metres or whoever brings the products. There are usually tariffs and penalties issued to people who import cars into the country”.

Earlier, the Managing Director of Metering Solutions Manufacturing Services Limited, Tolulope Ogunkolade, had lamented the non-patronage of locally manufactured metres.

“Chinese companies were allocated 1.3 million meters to import into Nigeria while local manufacturing companies were sidelined,” he stated.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) yesterday lauded the Bank of Industry (BoI) for its interest in fostering green and sustainable industrial practices in Nigeria.

The Director General of MAN, Mr.  Segun  Ajayi-Kadir said this in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital at the ‘Global Environment Facility -United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (GEF-UNIDO) Industrial Energy Efficiency (IEE) and Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP) project Nigeria,’ workshop for the BoI and other strategic stakeholders.

Ajayi-Kadir, pointed out that the 5-day capacity building workshop showed their collective commitment to support the quest for transformation of the manufacturing sector in the country through adoption of resource-efficient and cleaner production methodologies while ensuring environmental sustainability.

“This workshop represents a significant milestone in our shared aspiration towards achieving greater sustainability in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.

 “It underscores the importance of advancing industrial energy efficiency and resource optimisation to ensure that our industries remain competitive while reducing their environmental impact.

“Our veritable partners, the BoI plays a pivotal role in this project. They have been tasked with managing the financing component, ensuring that manufacturers have the necessary resources to implement energy-efficient solutions and cleaner production practices.

“This financial support is essential in helping industries across Nigeria to adopt technologies and systems that reduce energy consumption, lower operational costs, and contribute to sustainable development.

“I therefore commend the BoI for its dedication to fostering green and sustainable industrial practices in Nigeria. We are grateful for your commitment to the project, which we have leveraged to put up this workshop,” he stressed.

The main objective of the project he said was to address and encourage the adoption of Industrial Energy Efficiency (IEE) and RECP methodologies within industries in Nigeria through a structured capacity-building programme, provision of expertise, equipment, and a revolving credit guarantee fund.

“It is in the light of this broad objective that Global Environment Facility (GEF) through the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) is supporting BOI and by extension selected financial institutions with this workshop,” Ajayi-Kadir asserted.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

Akwa Ibom State government is to spend the sum of N955 billion in the 2025 financial year.

This followed the signing of the State’s 2025 appropriation bill tagged, “Budget of Consolidation and Expansion,” into law by the State Governor, Umo Eno.

Also yesterday, Governor Hope Uzodimma signed into law the Imo State 2025 appropriation bill that was raised by the State’s Assembly to N807 billion from the N756 billion presented to them by the Governor.

Uzodimma pledged full and faithful implementation of the budget.

In Akwa Ibom State, the Governor signed the bill at the State Government House, Uyo, with the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong; members of the State Executive Council, and some members of the state legislature in attendance.

At the signing ceremony, Governor Eno lauded members of the State  House of  Assembly for the expeditious passage of the appropriation bill.

He acknowledges the synergy and unity of purpose between the executive and the legislative arms in the implementation of government policies and programmes.

He sued for sustainable partnership and collaboration in order to deliver on the dividends of democracy to the people in line with his administration’s ARISE Agenda blueprint covering Agriculture, Rural development, Infrastructure and Social Empowerment.

The House of Assembly had on December 24, 2024, passed the 2025 appropriation bill into law, following the adoption of the report by the Chairman, House Committee on Appropriation and Finance, Dr. Itoro Etim.

Following the adoption, the House had dissolved into the Committee of Whole, to consider the report, after which it was read the third time and passed into law by the lawmakers.

The budget has a component of recurrent expenditure of N300 billion and N655 billion for capital expenditure.

The 2025 budget outlay represents a three percent increase from the N923.412 billion revised provision of 2024.

Meanwhile, in Imo, Governor Uzodimma signed into law the State’s 2025 appropriation bill.

According to a statement, in signing the bill into law at the New Exco Chambers, Government House Owerri, Uzodimma noted that what the lawmakers did by increasing the original figures he presented before them showed an alignment between the Executive and the legislature in providing essential services to the people.

The Governor who further expressed satisfaction over the expeditious passage of the appropriation bill and tinkering with the original numbers, said the lawmakers through their action have challenged the executive to commence work without delay on the 2025 budget.

“The appropriation signed into law still maintains the Governor’s consistency in allocating huge chunk of the budget to capital expenditure in 2025 to the tune of N694,786,041,220 or 86.09 percent of the total sum.

“For the recurrent expenditure, N112,302,000,000 or 13.91 percent was approved.

“In the now signed budget, the Ministry of Works and Infrastructural Development gets  N297,509,312,778  or 42.8 percent, the Ministry of Transport, N101,010,000,000  or 14.5 percent and the Ministry of Power and Electrification,  N74,755,479,042  or 10.8 percent.”

The statement added: “In the same vein, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security was allocated N50,020,000,000 or 7.2 percent of the budget; the Ministry of Education, N49,460,000,000 or 7.1 percent while the Ministry of Health gets N31,933,234,000 or 4.65 percent.”

In his remarks after signing the appropriation bill into law, Uzodimma said: “I have just signed into law the 2025 Imo State appropriation bill, which now has the force of law and serves as the financial operational manual for the state.

“While I initially proposed a budget of Seven Hundred and Fifty-Six Billion Naira for the year, the State House of Assembly, in its wisdom, adjusted it to N807 billion. It shows the alignment between the Executive and the Legislature in providing essential infrastructure and services to the people of the State.

“The total 2025 budget, as amended by the Assembly and signed into law is N807,088,041,220. Capital allocation: N694,786,041,220 or 86.09 percent. Recurrent allocation: N112,302,000,000 or 13.91 percent.

“I commend the Speaker and members of the House of Assembly for the expeditious passage of the Appropriation Bill and for increasing the initial budget estimate. This patriotic gesture challenges the executive to commence work immediately.

“As outlined in my recent budget speech, this ‘Budget of Expanded Economic Opportunities’ is designed to drive the economic transformation of our state through improved infrastructure and industrialisation.

“Beyond focusing on making our economy one of the fastest-growing in the region, we aim to position the state as a prime destination for genuine investors.

“My dear people of Imo State, I pledge to fully and faithfully implement this budget to achieve its goals. We will create expanded economic opportunities through investment and job creation. Ndi Imo shall be the beneficiaries.

“I urge everyone and all stakeholders to support this administration in our endeavor to set Imo State on a path of sustainable development.”

Earlier in his speech ahead of the signing, the Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Chike Olemgbe, explained that the appropriation bill presented to them was carefully crafted, a situation that made their job easy and seamless.

He noted that the proposal showed that the Governor was determined to give Imo people “Expanded Economic Opportunities” as contained in the budget.

Gbajabiamila Celebrates 2025 Surulere Baby of the Year

•Visits motherless babies’ home, doles out foodstuffs, cash gifts

Chief of Staff to the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Wednesday, unveiled and celebrated the 2025 Surulere Baby of the Year.

Gbajabiamila, who served as the Speaker of the 9th House of Representatives (2019-2023), has been celebrating the Surulere Baby of the Year since his days in the House of Representatives.

He was in a joyous mood when he visited the Gbaja Maternal and Child Care Centre, Surulere, where the Baby of the Year, named Ikeatu Okika Chiamaka, was born at about 12 am. through a cesarean section and weighed 3kg at birth.

Also, there was a second baby delivered at about 1:15.am and named Uzochukwu Chiwendu, weighing 3kg.

Gbajabiamila, who gave out cash gifts, foodstuffs, and other items to cater for the Baby of the Year and the second baby, also went around the maternal section of the hospital to greet and extend hand of fellowship to other women who were delivered of babies at different times.

Similarly, the Chief of Staff to the President visited the Heart of Gold Children Hospice, a motherless babies’ home and a safe haven for children with special needs, where he also donated cash gifts, foodstuffs, sanitary items and others.

Gbajabiamila was taken around the facilities, which houses about 70 children, by the founder of the home, Mrs. Adelaja Adedoyin.

He assured of his continuous support for the motherless babies’ home, even as he thanked the founder for her unwavering commitment toward providing shelter for the babies, as well as children with special needs.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

In an endorsement that underscores local pride and economic growth, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has declared Champion Breweries Plc as the official beverage for the state airline, Ibom Air.

At an event commemorating the launch of the Champion Breweries’ new canned products, the governor described the brewery as a symbol of Akwa Ibom’s heritage and excellence.

His words: “This is the drink for our people and it comes in different brands – Champion Lager Beer and Champ Malta, Champion Lager with Ginger Extract, Champ Malt with Butter Cookies and Champ Malt with Tiger Nut.

“In fact, Champ Malta at some point in this country won an award for being outstanding and I’m glad we could take it to the world. Just as Ibom Air is for Akwa Ibom, Champion is for Akwa Ibom. Ibom Air can serve these drinks, going forward.”

The governor emphasised the importance of promoting home-grown products, saying, “It is made in Akwa Ibom, recognized by Akwa Ibomites and the world. Let’s celebrate what God has given to us.”

The endorsement comes at a pivotal time for Champion Breweries Plc, which has recently expanded its product line to include canned beverages. This development is set to enhance distribution and cater to a broader market.

Pastor ImoAbasi Jacob, Chairman, Board of Directors of Champion Breweries Plc, reflected on the journey that led to this milestone.

He highlighted the widespread demand for Champion beverages across Nigeria, from Lagos to the northern regions and also acknowledged the hitherto logistical hurdles.

The chairman said: “Champion is a lager beer that was launched in the ’70s, and it remains the toast of the market.

“However, our challenge has always been distribution. The problem was that this market favorite was only available in bottles, limiting its reach.

“Today we have launched our can formats so Akwa Ibomites and Nigerians as a whole can now enjoy champion brands which they have always loved in cans too.

“Therefore, this king was limited from influencing the market and bringing good returns to the good people of Akwa Ibom State.

“When I joined the board a little over a year ago, it was unthinkable that Champion Breweries products could be in cans. Technology had shifted, the market had shifted, but the capital to adapt wasn’t available. Today, our can formats are a dream come true.”

He went ahead and credited Governor Eno’s leadership and business-friendly policies for making the shift to cans possible.

“Your Excellency, I can say that this means a lot to us. In the past, when we launched our products, the bottles rarely returned intact, affecting production.

“Our competitors took advantage, buying and breaking our bottles, starving us of resources and limiting our growth. Today, we are glad the God of the golden era has come to our aid, broken the jinx, and we now have both cans and bottles.”

The Chairman lauded the management team at Champion Breweries for their resilience and innovation, which he believes will further solidify the brand’s standing in Nigeria’s competitive beverage market.

The event ended with a resounding call to support local industries, with Governor Eno’s endorsement serving as a catalyst for Champion Breweries’ continued expansion and success

Okon Bassey in Uyo

A Non-Governmental Organization, TheSengah Foundation said plans are being initiated for more than 10,000 victims and survivors of breast cancer to receive financial and educational support to enable them cope with the condition.

Similarly, arrangements have been reached to form a support community for survivors of breast cancer following the neglect and abandonment they often suffer from their spouses after a successful surgery.

Director of the Organisation, Abasiekeme Ekanem, also yesterday told newsmen during a breast cancer awareness campaign to Dazzle International Schools in Uyo, that the project is aimed at educating girls on early signs and offering support to as many patients and survivors.

Ekanem said several orphanages and more than 500 students benefited from the programme last year while the 10,000 would be beneficiaries would be provided with educational materials and financial support in partnership with other NGOs.

On the formation of a support community for survivors, the Director explained that, “the initiative for this came from the story of a lady who although a survivor of breast cancer suffered emotional abandonment from the husband who did not have time for her again because she had no breast again and this caused her depression.

“And so, I reasoned that if this could happen to someone and possibly other people after surviving breast cancer, then having a community of such people will go a long way in making them live a fulfilled and happy life.”

She counselled the girls on early signs, symptoms and preventable measures and harped on the need for early medical checks and treatment even as many organisations are now available to offer support.

“This is important because it has been discovered that early deaths from breast cancer are either as a result of lack of necessary information and lack of finance.

“Breast cancer knows no age so we encourage girls to once in a while examine themselves and once you detect any lump or unusual colouration of the breasts please seek for medical examination. You can also contact organisatioins like ours for support,” she said.

The programme featured cash gifts to some of the students while sanitary packs were distributed to the female students.

This month has been declared a breast cancer month to raise awareness on the dangers, control and management of the disease worldwide.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Umo Eno, has said that he was voted into power because the people of the state believe in continuity. 

He said: “Because you (my people) believe in continuity, last year, you massively voted me to be your governor so that I may continue the trajectory of growth and development that my predecessors had so passionately and painstakingly started.

“You bought into our vision of the Arise Agenda, and gave me your support to implement this impactful blueprint.

“Today, I am proud to state that nearly one and half years since we came in, the fundamentals of our growth are rock-solid.” The governor made the assertion in a broadcast to mark the 37th anniversary of the creation of the state.

He posited that his administration “intentionally decided to grow our people, fight poverty, touch and improve the quality of lives in the rural areas, strengthen our crime fighting capabilities, improve the quality of education and healthcare delivery at the primary levels, maintain further the peace and security we have enjoyed,  and expand while maintaining our infrastructural amenities.

“Since this current dispensation came on board, Akwa Ibom State has continued to witness a steady growth across sectors.

“Our father, Obong Victor Attah, laid the foundation for our growth, the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, came with the determination to transform the state through infrastructure, and the immediate-past Governor, Udom Emmanuel, decided to apply corporate approach to management by expanding the infrastructural base and looking beyond the immediacy to establish such legacy projects as Ibom Air.”

Eno said agricultural revolution still remains a central focus of his administration, as he expression satisfaction that the people of the state have heeded appeal for them to return to the farm to grow some of the staple foods.

According to him, “Through the Ministry of Agriculture and the AK-Cares, seedlings and other agricultural inputs have been distributed across the state and we are hopeful that the next harvest season will be bountiful.

“I am aware of farms such as Aviclaire in Abak, the farm in Nsit Ibom Council headquarters, M-Farm and Green Estate, Black Rock farms and other farms springing up all over the state.

“This is the spirit we desire from our people and we encourage others to do likewise. We must work together to bring down the high cost of our staple foods by returning to the farms.

“Work is ongoing at our Model Farm in Nsit Ubium, which, when completed, will signpost our resolve to ensure food security and tourism as well.

“We will soon come out with the list of farmers to be given grants after a thorough process to identify such farms. The Ministry of Agriculture is driving this process.”

The state government, he said, would continue to intervene through the Bulk Purchase Agency to provide immediate help to the most vulnerable across the 31 local government areas of the state.

“The direct distribution of food palliatives, which commenced last week, is going on smoothly and we are happy to hear of the good wishes people have expressed on this intervention.

“Let me re-emphasise it here that this is just an intervention, the lasting solution remains our return to the farm to grow our staple foods.

“We remain committed to developing our rural areas through the provision of amenities and social services that will significantly improve the quality of lives of our rural dwellers.

“Today, I am proud to state that there is no local government area that we have not touched through our One Project per Local Government Initiative, either with a Primary Health Centre, a Model Primary School or road projects collectively agreed to by the stakeholders and the people themselves.

“In the area of infrastructural maintenance and expansion, we have initiated a total of 60 Arise Road projects spread across all the LGAs.

“These projects comprises 49 FGPC approved road contracts and 11 direct labour intervention projects.

“Some of these have been completed and unveiled which include: the Naira Atiku Abubakar Flood Control Tunnel, the Access Road at Urua Akpanadem, completed with solar panels and water facilities which I had promised to execute within the first 100 days of our administration, the Afia Nsit-Eket Erosion control project and construction of Idua road among others.

“We have also funded 36 FGPC inherited road projects some of which have been commissioned such as Udom Emmanuel Boulevard (Formerly Airport Road) and 51 direct labour intervention projects bringing a total of projects initiated by this administration and the inherited ones to a total of 147,” he said.

 Eno said the state government is committed to maintaining peace, stressing that the state today still remains an oasis of peace, which has attracted investors and also as a destination of choice.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

Akwa Ibom Governor, Umo Eno, has promised to  empower 100,000 youths across the 31 local government areas of the state for  supporting his  administration. 

The governor said the empowerment scheme beginning from the month of October 2024, also promised to create a separate Ministry for Youth Development in the State. 

 Governor Eno announced his plan for the youth at appreciation and engagement rally for youth in the state to express gratitude to the youths for their non-participation in the recent #Endbadgovernance protest in the country.

He directed the state Ministry of Labour and Manpower Development and the office of the Senior Special Assistant on ICT to create a database for youth employment.

The governor explained that 60,000 youths (N5,000 monthly) will be selected from the database for a one-off business support scheme of N50,000 each within 12 calendar months.

In addition, Governor Eno stated that 10,000 youths will be supported through the ARISE Entrepreneurial Scheme, an empowerment initiative for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) based on needs assessment.

 Similarly, he announced that 3,000 youths will be employed (100 per LGA, excluding Uyo LGA) through the Ibom Community Watch to provide crowd control and complementary intelligence gathering at the grassroots, in addition to the 550 youths already engaged from Uyo LGA.

According to him, other aspects of the scheme include paid training at the DAKKADA Skills Acquisition Center (DASAC) for 1,000 participants across 31 LGAs, with a monthly transport allowance of N20,000 per person throughout the training duration.

Eno equally announced increased bursary for students in public tertiary institutions from N10,000 to N20,000 for undergraduates and from N10,000 to N30,000 for professional students (Law, Medicine, Engineering, Agriculture) for 20,000 students in the 2024/2025 academic session.

He said there will be an educational grant for 1,000 public tertiary institution students living with disabilities at N250,000 for undergraduates and N300,000 for professional and postgraduate students.

While 2,000 youths will benefit from the Entrepreneurial Accelerator Programme (EAP) organised by Ibom-led with a N500,000 grant and N250,000 start-up capital, and 3,000 youths will receive support in agribusiness.

 Expressing delight over the recent promotion of the state’s female team, Ibom Angels, from the second division to division one of the Nigeria Women Football League, Governor Eno announced his administration’s donation of N20 million and a coaster bus to the team.

He reaffirmed his plans to unbundle the State Ministry of Youths and Sports Development, maintaining that his administration will create a separate Ministry for Youth Development in the next dispensation of the State Executive Council, to be headed by a Commissioner not older than 45 years.

He thanked the security agencies for their cooperation and support in ensuring peace in the State at all times, as he condoled with the Nigeria Police over the demise of the Commissioner in charge of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, CP Waheed Ayilara.

“We are here to say thank you to all the Akwa Ibom youths. In all your different groups, thank you so much for showing good followership.

“Most times, we talk about leadership in our country, but we do not take time to look at followership. I believe that when we have good followers, we will have good leadership.

“Today, we are inspired by your followership, your obedience, and your love from every local government in Akwa Ibom, from every group and every campus. We are inspired by your love and support, which has ensured we have one Akwa Ibom State.

“We are inspired by the fact that you listened to our plea not to join the protest, not because we don’t believe in protest or are unaware of what is going on in the country, but because we know that there are people always on standby to hijack even the most peaceful protest to destroy and vent their anger on government facilities.

“Our leaders have worked so hard in the past 37 years of the creation of our dear state to put this infrastructure in place, but you know that one minute of anger could destroy all the hard work. 

“Just like our past national anthem said, ‘the labours of our heroes past must never be in vain.’ So we thank you.”, he added.

The  Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Sir Monday Uko, had recalled  non-involvement of Akwa Ibom youths in the , and the Governor’s promise to celebrate them. He described the event as an affirmation of Governor Umo Eno’s integrity as a promise keeper.

Also speaking at the event, a former President of the Student Union at the University of Uyo and former Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke, emphasised the importance of the rally within the context of incarcerations, lives lost, and properties destroyed during the #EndSARS protest.

He noted that Akwa Ibom youths were saved from such troubles by heeding the Governor’s plea not to partake in it, and described the event as a worthy celebration.

Other stakeholders in youth affairs thanked the Governor and reassured him of the youths’ commitment to good followership. 

Okon Bassey in Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has expressed shock over the sudden death of two journalists of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Patience John and Esther Ukpe.

The governor in a statement issued yesterday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ekerete Udoh, described their demise as a huge loss to the journalism profession in the state.

The governor acknowledged the contributions of the two deceased journalists in disseminating the ARISE Agenda of his administration, noting that they will be sorely missed.

Governor Eno extended his heartfelt sympathies to the families of the departed journalists, members of the ctate Council of the NUJ and National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ).

According to him, “The late Patience John of the Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation, AKBC TV Service, was an integral part of the Press Corps in my office, and was noted as a diligent and hardworking professional.

“While we were struggling to absorb the sad news  of her death, then came the news of the sudden death of yet another journalist, Esther Ukpe of the Federated Chapel of the Union. This is deeply sad and unfortunate.

“May God console their families, the NUJ family, and grant their souls eternal repose.”

The governor reassured the media community that his administration would continue to identify with media professionals as integral part of his plans and policies geared towards leaving a lasting legacy of the development in the state.

��Okon Bassey in Uyo

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has again approved additional N6.43 billion for payment of gratuities and other entitlements of workers in the state, bringing sum to over N28 billion so far released for the sector since assuming office.

The disbursement of the fund is said to stem from the governor’s determined desire to fulfill his campaign promise to regularly set aside substantial amount of funds for the payment of gratuities and other entitlements for retired workers in the state.

A breakdown of the latest released fund show that N1,000,000,000 is for payment of gratuities for retired primary school teachers (SUBEB); N500, 000, 000 for the payment of gratuities of retired local government workers, N2,220,524,257.62  payment of gratuities, pension arrears, and en bloc for state retired  civil service workers, N597,400,000.00, for the 2014 leave grant for local government workers and N2,115,000.000.00 payment for leave grant for workers in the state civil service, bringing the total amount of funds released by governor in the months of July and August respectively to N6, 432,924, 257.62.

The governor stressed that with the rich infrastructural amenities previous administrations had approved, the focus now should be to grow the people, improve their material wellbeing and accelerate developments in the rural areas.

A release by state government said the passionate dedication to the welfare of the most vulnerable and the neediest in the society has led to the construction and hand over of 36 fully-furnished and fitted 2- bedroom bungalows under the Arise Compassionate Homes Initiative to the poorest and the most vulnerable so far, with 164 currently under construction.

The plans of the governor are to hand over 200 of those units in his second year and 400 by the end of his first term.

Already 150 units out of the 236 units at the Grace Homes Estate, are to be given out to civil servants from grades level 1-8, free of charge through a raffle draw selection process.

And through the Arise Elderly Care Initiatives, N50,000 is given out monthly to 600 elders throughout the 368 wards in the state. Bursaries to students in public tertiary institutions are being paid, alongside grants for students with disabilities. WAEC fees for all students continue to be paid and the State’s pass rate ratio has increased exponentially.

The governor, through the Bulk Purchase Agency, is distributing staple food items directly to the most vulnerable in the state and also remains deeply grateful for the palliatives so far given to the people of the state by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Apart from the humanitarian interventions, Governor Eno, is also undertaking audacious capital projects such as the completion of road infrastructure inherited from previous administrations and the ongoing construction of numerous other road projects he has initiated throughout the state.

There is also the plan to acquire two brand new CRJ-900 series Bombadier jets to expand the fleet and routes for Ibom Air, to be purchased outright; added to the planned 19- Storey Ibom Towers in Lagos and the 3- Star Ibom Hotel in Abuja among others.

•CDS: military working tirelessly to ensure increase in oil production to boost economy��

•Air chief orders commanders to heighten clampdown on adversaries

Okon Bassey in Uyo and Linus Aleke in Abuja

Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, yesterday, raised the alarm over a new set of security challenges in the country, aside the known threats of terrorism, insurgency, banditry, illegal mining, and farmer/herder crisis.

Lagbaja spoke at the Chief of Army Staff Combined Second and Third Quarter Conference 2024, going on in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.

The alarm came as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, said the Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with other security agencies, were working tirelessly to ensure the safety of critical state assets, as well as guarantee increase in oil production to boost economic activities. Musa said this yesterday, when he received Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), Abuja.

Equally, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, directed the Air Component Commanders to intensify their efforts in the ongoing operations to deny terrorists and other criminals freedom of action.

Abubakar gave the directive yesterday during a virtual meeting with the commanders.

Lagbaja said the recent protests in the country, primarily driven by discontent over economic issues and government policies, resulted in significant unrest and, in some cases, violence.

He stated, “This situation reminded us that as an Armed Force, we must not only focus on physical security and defence of the nation, but that food and social security issues can snowball into physical security challenges.”

Lagbaja said the protest held between August 1 and August 10 was largely driven by provocative and inciting social media traffic, although it was professionally managed by the Nigeria Police, supported by the military and other security agencies.

The chief of army staff said the challenge the protest posed was a pointer to the fact that the military must always remain professional.

He stated, “It is obvious that some of the protest organisers hold contrary opinions from the government on how the security forces managed the situation.

“However, I believe it was carefully handled, and I commend our commanders and troops for conducting themselves in the most professional manner as they worked with the Nigeria Police and civil authorities to effectively control the situation.

“Nonetheless, I am deeply saddened by the loss of lives and the destruction of public facilities, as well as looting as witnessed in some states.

“As investigations are instituted into the actions of both the protesters and security forces, I join other well-meaning Nigerians in condoling the families and loved ones of those who tragically lost their lives during the protests.”

Musa, on his part, said the military had been able to markedly decimate terrorists, insurgents and other criminals operating in the country.

A statement by Acting Director, Defence Information, Brig Gen Tukur Gusau, said the CDS, who received the finance minister in his office, assured him of the readiness of the armed forces to continually defend democracy in Nigeria.

Musa expressed appreciation to the minister for his support to the military in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.

Edun, on his part, appreciated the armed forces for keeping the country together and protecting democracy at all cost. He said this will allow the economy to thrive and businesses to prosper.

Abubakar, at the meeting, charged the air component commanders to consolidate on the significant successes recently recorded in various theatres of operation across the country.

He also stated that the dedication and tactical efforts of the air component commanders had led to a series of successful missions, including eliminating key terrorist leaders, disrupting activities of oil thieves and pipeline vandals, and safeguarding key national assets.

Abubakar tasked the commanders to continue to hit the adversaries hard until they succumb to superior might.

He said, “We must not rest on our laurels. The security of our nation depends on our continued resolve and unwavering commitment.

“I charge you to intensify your efforts and push forward with even greater determination. The Nigerian Air Force will continue to provide all necessary support to ensure the success of our missions.”

Applauding the outstanding performance of the commanders so far, the CAS also highlighted the critical role they had played in ensuring the safety and security of the country. He said the service, and indeed the entire country, were proud of their achievements.

Abubakar told the air commanders, “Your relentless pursuit of excellence and commitment to duty have not gone unnoticed, and the recent operational successes are a testament to your leadership and the professionalism of the men and women under your command. We must, however, continue to hit them hard until they succumb to our superior might.”

However, the air chief stated that the challenges were far from over and called on the commanders to maintain the momentum.  He urged them to remain vigilant and to continue to leverage on intelligence, precision strikes, and collaborative efforts with sister services to neutralise the remaining threats.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

The Akwa Ibom State Government has received a new A220-300 series aircraft for the state-owned airline, the Ibom Air.

While receiving the new aircraft, Governor Umo Eno announced plans for the establishment of Aviation Village near the Victor Attah International Airport.

At a ceremony yesterday, the governor said the growth and expansion of Ibom Air, is worth celebrating and enjoined all Akwa Ibomites to always remain grateful to God for the airline.

In the governor’s words: “We will always gather to celebrate growth, hard work, commitment and dedication because Ibom Air is the pride of Akwa Ibom State.

“As part of our efforts to expand the aviation ecosystem in Akwa Ibom, we will in the next few weeks, flag-off the construction of the aviation village for an estate that will accommodate aviation workers because they need to reside near the airport as we are planning to go on 24 hours operation.

“The housing estate will come with schools, hospitals and other amenities so that all of our aviation staff will live close to the airport.”

Reflecting on the success story of the airline since inception five years ago, he added that, “Ibom Air remains a model of how best government should run business and we will soon use the same model in the state-owned specialist hospital.”

The governor said the state government is working towards ensuring the completion of the maintenance, repairs and overhaul hanger, MRO as well as the new international terminal building.

The governor also announced plans to remodel the airport clinic in line with the new international standard of the airport.

He paid glowing tributes to the immediate past governor and visioner of the airline business, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, for his resilience in establishing the airline, despite the barrage of criticisms that trailed the vision.

He said: “He received a lot of attacks like we are receiving now in some of the strategic projects we are bringing to the State.

“But he (Udom Emmanuel) was focused and undaunted, today even the worst critic of this airline, I see them on this airline.”

The airline, he said currently owns seven aircraft and none is leased, describing the feat as a product of vision and focus which every leader should strive to imbibe.

The governor commended President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to supporting the state and its programmes.

He said: “I salute all of our past leaders. His Excellency Arc. Obong Victor Attah that the airport is rightly named after and His Excellency Godswill Obot Akpabio, the Senate President of Nigeria for their pioneering roles in conceptualizing and constructing this airport and other facilities we find today in the state.”

Promising to always remain supportive of the airline, he said his government will continue to place premium on tourism and other investment opportunities in state, saying the state is destination of choice.

He commended the security agencies, the royal fathers and religious leaders, the youths and elders for the role in making the state to remain peaceful.

Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the airline, Captain Mfon Udom, and the Chairman of Ibom Air, Mr. ImoAbasi Jacob, had said, the arrival of an additional A220-300 series Airbus to the fleet of Ibom Air was a timely needed boost that will improve the efficiency of flight schedule of the airline.

His words: “Beyond adding two new destinations to the routes of Ibom Air later this year, the aircraft will boost services on existing routes,” said Captain Udom who also thanked the financial partners, Fidelity Bank and Union Bank, who helped facilitate the acquisition of the new aircraft.”

He said the new plane was different from the earlier ordered ten new A220-300 series aircraft and that when the nine remaining previously expected aircraft arrive, the Airline would boast of 11 A220 airplanes.

Also speaking, Charles Nwoke, Executive Director, Risk Management, Fidelity Bank, said: “schedule reliability and inhouse inflight service”, makes Ibom Air able to compete favourably with international airlines.

He stressed that on the basis of its reliability, Fidelity Bank is proud to support the growth and expansion of the airline.

He commended the governor of Akwa Ibom State, for his huge contribution, in sustaining the vision of Ibom Air, and Union Bank for also financially investing in the purchase of the plane.

Okon Bassey in Uyo 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Akwa Ibom State, weekend elected chapter executive committee members across  the 31 local government areas  of the  state to pilot the affairs of the party for the next  four year.

The new leaders of the party at the grassroots level emerged at a congress where  the national delegate as well as Persons Living with Disabilities(PLWD) where equally elected . 

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, was among  members of the party elected as national delegates held at the PDP chapter headquarters. 

In a message to the local government chapters over the conduct of the congress, the state governor, who is also the leader of the PDP in the state, praised the unity of purpose urging the new officers elected  to steady the Party on the Path of election victory in the state. 

While addressing the stakeholders over the LGA  chapter election in the state, the chairman of the PDP, Rt Hon Aniekan Akpan, had urged them to elect officers who are ready to make the needed sacrifices that will draw more faithful and supporters to the PDP.

 “In this state, our party, the PDP is privileged to say as the most loved, and preferred political party for Akwa Ibom people. 

“Therefore, those who will be  elected must be person who will adopt an altruistic disposition that will make millions of people continue to admire the PDP and choose us.”

Commenting on the peaceful chapter election, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, attributed the success  to the transparency and internal democracy in the party.

Speaking in Nsit Ubium, the political leader of Uyo Senatorial District, Senator Effiong Bob, commended the delegates and the newly elected leaders for a successful election. 

 In Uruan Local Government Area where the Senator representing Uyo Senatorial District, Senator Aniekan Bassey participated in the Congress, the exercise witnessed a large turnout, and the senator lauded  the conduct of the congress in the area. 

 Former National Legal Adviser of the party, Emmanuel Enoidem, SAN, said in Etim Ekpo where he comes from, the exercise met the expectations of the party.

 He said the congress  was  another opportunity for the party in Etim Ekpo to increase the pace and root of PDP in the area.

In Itu Local Government Area, the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Kufreabasi Edidem, noted that the elective congress was “seamless and rancor-free.”

 Edidem applauded  the stakeholders of the party in Itu LGA  for the unity in producing the first ever female chairman of the party in Itu chapter, Mrs Inemesit Maxwell.

In Eket LGA , the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon Frank Archibong, said the  area never failed the party  urging the party faithful to keep standing by Gov Eno as he delivers his policies and programmes through the ARISE Agenda.

Stakeholders of the party in Ibiono Ibom including former Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt Hon Ignatius Edet, immediate past state assembly member, Hon Godwin Ekpo, the State Publicity Secretary of PDP, Mr Borono Bassey, among others, at the congress in Oko-Ita, gave thumbs up on the emergence of the newly elected Exco of PDP in the chapter.

 They expressed delight that the seamless process goes to solidify the already stronghold of PDP in the area.

In Uyo the state capital, the chapter congress produced Hon. Anthony Ekong as chapter chairman, Mrs Elizabeth Utibe Ini as vice chairman, along with 16 other members to make up the chapter executive council.

Speaking at the end of the congress, the Chairman of Akwa Ibom State Local Government Service Commission, Hon Monday Eyo, the Transition Committee Chairman of Uyo, Dr Uwemedimoh Udo  noted that  the process was hitch-free.

He  commended the state leadership of the PDP for their transparency and effectiveness, while praising the Governor  Eno for providing leadership and direction.

The Chairman of the Congress Committee in  Ika Local Government Area and immediate past Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Uwemedimo Nwoko, SAN alongside key stakeholders lauded the leadership disposition of Governor Eno in charting a developmental, peaceful and  enviable path for the party in  the State which has enhanced the smooth conduct of the congress across the State.

ln Etinan LGA, the representive of Nsit Ubium/Nsit Ibom/Etinan Federal Constituency at the National assembly, Obong Paul Ekpo, alongside others stakeholders in the area, scored the party and the Governor high in the conduct of the congress and the development in the state, pledging continue commitment of Etinan people  to remain supportive to the party.

 In Mkpat Enin Local Government,  the senator representing Eket Senatorial District, Barr  Ekong Sampson, restated the position of the stakeholders and faithful of the PDP harping on the need of the party faithful to remain relentless in entrenching the ideals of the party and working for greater success of PDP.

Speaking at the end of the exercise, the member representing Uyo/Uruan/Ibesikpo Asutan/Nsit Atai Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Mark Esset, charged the newly elected officials to remain loyal and bear true allegiance  to the democratic tenets of the PDP 

The congress in Ibesikpo Asutan LGA chapter of the PDP produced  Mr Nsikak Nkanga as chapter chairman, Lady Ime Orok as vice chairman, and Edidiong Effiong Ekong as Treasurer, amongst others.

Former member of the House of Representatives and Board of Trustees Member of PDP, Hon Pat  Ifon, Immediate Past Chapter chairmen of PDP in Esit Eket, Elder Eddy Etangkanga and his ONNA counterpart, Ubong Adiakpan on their part lauded the leadership of the party in the State for conducting a peaceful chapter Congress.

In an interaction with newsmen after the exercise,  Special Adviser to the Governor on Legislative Affairs, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Uko, said he has confidence in the newly elected officials and expressed the that they will take the party in the local government area to enviable heights.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

The paramount ruler of Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Okuku Ime Inyang, has tasked the state government to assist in equipping and staffing a health facility in the area, Utit Obio Community Hospital, built in 1981, through community effort.

The monarch made the call during the flag off of a four-day free medical outreach in the hospital, located at Ikot Uba Village and sponsored by the member representing Ibiono Ibom State Constituency in the State House of Assembly.

The native king lamented that the health care facility which foundation was laid in 1981 by the then Cross River State governor, late Dr. Clement Isong, has suffered neglect of successive administrations since the creation of the state in 1987.

He lauded the lawmaker for sponsoring the outreach which he reasoned was going to bring health care services to many community dwellers in the area.

The monarch described the lawmaker as, “a patriotic, worthy and exemplary son of Ibiono Ibom who has made Ibiono Ibom proud through his people-oriented representation”.

“Where we are seated today is a hospital which was initiated through the efforts, support and contribution of Utit Obio sons and daughters, and if we go round the premises, you would discover that the foundation was laid in 1981 by the then governor of Cross River State, late Dr. Clement Isong.

“Now, through Moses Essien, we are gathered here for a medical outreach; that’s commendable. The Akwa Ibom State Government should see the need to urgently intervene in the equipping and staffing of this facility to operate optimally and maximally.”

He praised Senator Bassey Akpan who during his tenure as the Senator representing Uyo Senatorial District facilitated the donation of hospital equipment and other medical items to the hospital.

The Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Elder Udeme Otong, who flagged off the program, commended the lawmaker for initiating, “a well thought out healthcare programme that will handle diverse health challenges of the people of Ibiono Ibom state constituency.”

The speaker, who was represented by the member representing Ini Constituency, Hon Lawrence Udoide, described Essien as an “articulate and vibrant member of the eight Assembly.”

He lauded the Ibiono Ibom member for his effective representation and according a priority to the health and wellbeing of his constituents in his legislative engagement.

The speaker noted that the free medical outreach was in sync with the health care and rural development blueprint in the development agenda of the Umo Eno-led administration.

The sponsor of the free medical outreach, Hon Moses Essien disclosed that the programme was aimed at providing vital health services to the people of his constituency at zero cost to the beneficiaries, especially, the vulnerable and the aged who are mostly affected by health challenges and lack of funds to access the needed medical attention.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Akwa Ibom State, has nominated 31 chairmanship and 368 councillorship candidates to contest the forthcoming local government elections in state.

The candidates of the party for the October 5 local government election were said to have emerged through affirmative nominations process, described as one of the most peaceful, fair and credible process in the country.

The state Governor, Umo Eno, who participated in the party primary election in his local government area, Nsit Ubium, attributed the success of the party election to the peace enjoyed in the state.

The governor who is the leader of PDP in the state, lauded the  party faithful for conducting a peaceful  primary election, reiterating his commitment to unveil and implement more welfare packages for the youths in the state.

Governor Umo congratulated the chairmanship candidate of Nsit Ubium, Mr. Alfred Charles, and all councillorship candidates, who emerged from the nomination exercise.

He  tasked them to be ready to work and maintain the democratic ethos of the PDP as well as contribute in driving the community development efforts encapsulated in his ARISE Agenda.

In Oron Local Government Area, where the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, who participated in the nomination primary, said PDP has once again shown good example in orderliness and peaceful election.

The state Chairman of the PDP, Elder Aniekan Akpan, who witnessed the primary in Ikot Akpa Nkuk, Ukanafun LGA, praised the delegates and party faithful for the success recorded, stressing the party’s readiness to win at the polls.

Speaking shortly after the exercise in Uyo, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prince Enobong Uwah, described the process as peaceful, and lauded the leadership of the PDP for effective leadership and proper organisation of the primary.

The SSG, Uwah, as well as the Chairman of the state Civil Service Commission, Hon Monday Eyo, expressed satisfaction on the process, and commended stakeholders in the LGA for giving their nod to a second term arrangement in the area.

In Itu Local Government Area, the Deputy Speaker of the state Assembly, Rt Hon Kufreabasi Edidem, remarked that the party faithful and leaders in Itu have followed the steps of Governor Eno in conducting themselves peacefully and orderly without rancor, to produce a widely accepted candidate for PDP in the October poll.

The former National Legal Adviser of the PDP, Emmanuel Enoidem (SAN), lauded the  PDP faithful for their orderliness throughout the exercise, describing the nomination exercise as the most peaceful in the history of primary elections in Nigeria.

Also, the state Commissioner for Information, Ini Ememobong, while speaking in Oko-Ita, Ibiono Ibom, shortly after Asuakak Umoh was affirmed and declared the party’s candidate for the chairmanship poll, noted that the people of Ibiono Ibom are resolute in maintaining peace and order in their affairs, holding that they will remain supportive to Governor Eno and the ARISE Agenda.

Also speaking separately shortly after their affirmation as candidates of PDP for the chairmanship poll in their respective areas, the Eket Local Council boss, Mr. Akan Tommey, his Uyo counterpart, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo; Prince Uyo Ukpanah in Ukanafun, Mr. Sunday Okon Etim in Mbo, among others, expressed unreserved appreciation to the party and the governor for making their nomination process a peaceful and successful endeavour

They pledged to represent the party’s democratic ideals in all ramifications, and work to support the ARISE Agenda of the governor which they agreed is people-centric and yielding good result.

Okon Bassey in Uyo 

Critics of Akwa Ibom State government projects have been told to desist from attacking noble intentions of the government as they end up doing the state no good. 

The state government said it is worried by the criticisms that trail the 18-Storey Ibom Towers building which is an expansion attempt by the government to increase the internally generated revenue of the state.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Ekerete Udoh who made the call, pointed out that over the years, the property was not adding any value to the state, nor was it generating any income since it was not being utilised properly.

He reasoned that there is no better way to utilise the property than to turn it into a commercial investment that will earn income for the State.

“Real estate business in Lagos and Abuja are bullish. The rate of return on investment in Abuja and Lagos is tremendous. 

“The Governor said these are properties that have been there and not utilised properly. What better way to utilise that property that is not earning 1 kobo to the state government than to now build a beautiful smart 18-storey building that will also announce the presence of Akwa Ibom State in the bullish real estate market in Lagos State. The property will generate revenue for the State,” he stressed.

Udoh urged citizens of the state to encourage the establishment of sovernment projects and not always talk down on them, as the state  government has the best interest of the people at heart.

He recalled that during the conception of Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, International Stadium and Ibom Air, a lot of people backlashed the government but today, those projects have succeeded in putting the State on the world map.

“I want us to drop the notion that we have, that any government that wants to do something must be castigated. They will attempt to rubbish the intent of the government. History is replayed with such situations.

“During former Governor, Senator Godswill Akpabio’s government, when he started the stadium, the outcry was horrendous, today it has become the most beautiful stadium in Nigeria where all the football matches organized by the NFA take place. 

“Also today, Ibom Air is the most desirable airline in the nation, celebrated all over Africa and expanding tremendously. It has attracted millions of people to the State.

“From decay to rebirth, a once-forgotten government-owned property, plagued by neglect and disrepair, is now being revitalized as a thriving hub of innovation and progress, as the state unlocks its hidden potential and weaves a new tapestry of economic growth, community engagement, and urban renewal.

“Recall that the Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno before being sworn into office came prepared with his ARISE Agenda blueprint (Agriculture, Rural Development , Infrastructure Maintenance, Security, Education) and so far all he has done is connecting the dots and ensuring that all these sectors are not left unattended to.”

Udoh  emphasised that Akwa Ibom State is one states that has been so blessed with good leaders right from its inception 37 years ago. 

“It’s not wrong to say Akwa Ibom State was once a glorified village, looking at where we are today, having witnessed so many transformational and success stories compared to where we were many years back.”

He disclosed that it is okay for journalists and members of the public to seek information and ask questions about the activities and decisions of the state government but that it was also necessary, important and advisable to have a little sense of circumspection.  

Udoh urged all Akwaibomites to trust Governor Eno and his administration to deliver on his promises.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

Police operatives  in Akwa Ibom State have arrested a woman who operates a baby factory at the World Bank Estate in Owerri, Abia state, and 10 pregnant women rescued.

The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police(CP) Waheed Ayilara, disclosed this yesterday while briefing journalists on the activities of the state police command under his watch.

The commissioner said that 21 criminal suspects are in police custody for allegedly committing various offenses, including kidnapping, armed robbery, attempted murder, vandalisation, cultism, stealing among others.

Ayilara said: “On 15/7/2024 at about 4:30p.m., based on actionable intelligence, one Mrs. Eunice Eze ‘f’ age 56yrs was arrested for running a baby factory at World Bank Estate in Owerri.

“The suspect specialises in stealing babies and pregnant women from Akwa Ibom State through her agent, one Ability Henry 10 pregnant women were rescued.”

The commissioner also said that “through intelligence led operation, operatives of the command in partnership with sister security agencies arrested vandals responsible for vandalising most of the electric transformers and communication mast within Akwa Ibom and Rivers States respectively.

“Suspects were arrested and they included one Chinedu Divine Nweke, Kingsley James, Nnanna Uchendu, Kelechi Chima, Goodluck Amasi and Ikechi Nwauju, all residents of Rivers State.

“Further investigations revealed that the suspects were on the verge of vandalising another transformer at Ikot Inyang-Ator in Ika Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

“A Nissan Premera vehicle, one oasoline Oxygen and spanners were recovered from them.

“Meanwhile suspects confessed to the crime and admitted that they are responsible for vandalising different transformers in Ojor village, MTN’s communication mast located at Efemibon village and Airtel Comm. Mast at Ikot Idiong Etor village. Suspects will be charged to court upon completion of investigation.”

Again the police commissioner said that operatives of the command, through credible information and a painstaking investigation, recovered firearms and ammunitions used by a notorious kidnapping syndicate led by a wanted kidnapper one Ubong Effiong Archibong a.k.a Condiment.

“The kidnapping syndicate is responsible for the kidnapping and killing of several persons. The said firearms were recovered at a private mortuary being used as the armoury at Ekeya, Okobo L.G.A.

“The firearms are: Two  AK-47 Rifles, Two  G3 Rifles, One (1) Double Barrel Rifle, One (1) Single Barrel Rifle, Five  Magazines and Seven  Live Ammunitions.

Also, the commissioner said that following intelligence report that an armed robbery syndicate terrorising Uyo metropolis were selling out their stolen/looted items, operatives of the command mobilised to the scene and arrested one Emmanuel Ekpenyong Bassey ‘m’ aged 20yrs, Saviour Etim Bassey ‘m’ aged 24yrs, Emem Christopher Charles ‘m’ aged 23yrs, Elijah Solomon Obot ‘m’ aged 21yrs and Etiuwem Christian Etim ‘m’ aged 22yrs, all of Uyo L.G.A.

“Further investigation led to the recovery of one locally made pistol, one Sumer- Fire Man SPG4000E2 Generator, two (2) LG Flat Screen Television, Three  LG Speakers, one Zinox Laptop, one  6KG Gas Cyclinder, one  Gionee Phone, one  Huawei Phone, one Tecno Android Phone and one Tecno Button Phone.

“Suspects have confessed to the crime and stated that they 15 members in their syndicate. Effort is ongoing to arrest other fleeing members of the syndicate,” the commissioner of police said.

Again, the police said that on July 12, 2024, at about 8:30p.m. operatives of the command on routine patrol accosted two suspects, one Daniel Edem Okon ‘m’ 23yrs and Samaila Salisu ‘m’ 20yrs on a motorcycle without identification number along Timber Market, Uyo.

“After rigorous interrogation, the rider confessed that on July 11, 2024, at about 9:00p.m., he paid a commercial cyclist on a ride from Idoro Road to Mbikpon Ikot Edim. But on getting to a lonely area he hacked the rider to death with a matchete.

“Thereafter, he buried him in a shallow grave and went away with the motorcycle. The decomposed body of the victim later identified as one Saviour Anthony Effiong ‘m’ aged 45yrs has been exhumed and deposited at mortuary.”

The State Police Boss said effort is ongoing to arrest fleeing members among the crime syndicate, while others are to be prosecuted.

Ayilara thanked the state government for the support, sister security agencies and good spirited members of the public whose credible and timely information have led to the achievements recorded.

The commissioner said that the command looks forward to a more formidable collaboration from all as we strive to keep Akwa Ibom State safer and more peaceful.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno has given reasons on why his administration is committed  to providing affordable, decent and comfortable housing for every strata of the society.

At the foundation laying for an estate, Ewet Luxury Gardens, located at Ewet Offot in Uyo, the State capital, the Governor explained tha the hosing project was  part of a broader initiative to develop various housing options across different economic brackets in the State. 

He stressed that in line with his economic development blueprint, the ARISE Agenda, his administration was undertaking different housing projects for the elites, the low income earners and the poorest of the poor, as well as a planned 18 floor tower in Lagos, to be named “Ibom Towers.

He maintained that the Ewet Luxury Garden, a prototype of the Dakkada Luxury Estate, will be a smart estate that will cater for both local residents and investors from the diaspora.

The project, he said was more of a business venture, with units available for outright purchase, saying construction is expected to begin soon, starting with a project office. 

The Governor encouraged interested buyers, particularly those from the diaspora, to make early inquiries as it is slated for completion within eight months.

“This luxury estate is positioned as part of a larger state initiative that includes compassionate housing and rural community development projects, showcasing the government’s multi-faceted approach to housing and urban planning in Akwa Ibom State.” he added. 

Governor Eno recalled that the land was locked down for a long time, and while he was serving as Commissioner for Lands and Water Resources, he dialogued with the community which demanded for a school in exchange for the land.

He said, the state government honoured the request of the community, constructed a model school for the community, and took possession of the land for the estate project.

The State Chief Executive appreciated the leaders and people of the area for their disposition which, according to him, has added laudable value to their community.

He noted that the Ewet Luxury Garden is for the high net worth individuals, the Grace Estate for low income earners while  the government has recently flagged off the second phase of the ARISE Compassionate Homes, aimed at building one compassionate home in each of the wards across the State.

Accordingly, he  assured that in his administration, effort is made to ensure there is something for everyone.

Presenting an overview of the project, the Commissioner for Housing, Otuekong Raphael Bassey, said the new housing estate will feature 32 residential plots each bearing a 5 bedroom detached housing unit and boys quarters, outdoor recreational facilities for children and adults, walk paths, a 100 man capacity multipurpose hall, office facilities,  parking spaces, security house and other facilities with a central power plant, sitting on a 3.5 hectare land space, assuring that upon completion, it will contribute to drastically reducing the housing deficit in the State.

On his part, the Managing Director of the Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation, AKICORP, Pastor Imoabasi Jacob, hailed Governor Umo Eno for the project initiative which, he maintained, will not only meet housing needs, but serve as a revenue spinning investment for the state in line with AKICORP’s  3-dimensional goal of wooing investor to ‘come, live and work’ in Akwa Ibom State.

Stakeholders of Uyo Local Government Area including Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh, local government chairman, Dr Uwemedimo Udoh, who was represented by the Vice Chairman, Pastor Sylvia Ekong, and the Paramount Ruler, Edidem Sylvanus Okon, registered the gratitude of Uyo people in hosting the project and assured of the commitment of Uyo people to maintaining their peace loving and neighbour – friendly disposition, to add value to the estate.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

A naval rating and seven other persons have reportedly been  kidnapped in Akwa Ibom State.

This is coming few days  after a bus driver and 18 passengers leaving Uyo to Port Harcourt, Rivers state were abducted and their whereabouts still unknown.

The latest kidnapping of the  naval rating and others  was said to have occurred in Ibaka, Mbo Local Government Area of the state.

The victims were abducted Monday night at Classic Point Hotel, Ibaka by the gunmen to an unknown destination.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Akwa Ibom State Police Command, Timfon John confirmed the incident yesterday.

“When the police got the information, Commissioner of Police(CP), Waheed Ayilara, led a team of security personnel to the community. 

“I can assure you that with that visit by the CP and other strategic approaches normalcy will return.”

The Naval authority in Akwa Ibom has not spoken on the development.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

In a renewed effort to end the menace of crude oil theft, the Nigerian Navy yesterday said it was set to launch Operation Delta Sanity 11 in the Niger Delta region.

The Commanding Officer, FOB, Ibaka, Capt. Uche Aneke,  disclosed this while donating educational materials to Saint Paul’s African Primary School in Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

Aneke said  the Operation Delta Sanity 11 was Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla’s strategy toward ending the menace of crude oil theft and flushing out all forms of criminal elements in the region.

He explained that the donation was part of the efforts to kick-start Operation Delta Sanity 11 and foster civil relationship with host communities.

He further stressed that the donation was also to enlighten on the economic and environmental effects of illegal oil bunkering and smuggling of petroleum products as well as the security consequences on the Nigerian maritime environment.

Aneke said the Civil Military Cooperation (CIMIC) exercise, which involved educational outreach and community services among others, is used to drive the message in a non-kinetic line of operation.

He emphasised that under the current leadership of the Chief of Naval Staff, such community services would be constant and sustained.

The Navy used the visit to deliver  a sensitisation lecture to the female pupils of the school on the theme: “The impact of Girl-Child Education on the Community Development With Focus on the Ibaka Community,”

Aneke  urged the female pupils to take their academics seriously and observe good hygiene.

“Parents of  girls of school age who are out of school within the community are also encouraged to enrol in school for a brighter future,” he said.

Aneke said Operation Delta Sanity 11 as well as constant surveillance of areas under the FOB Ibaka Area of Operations and Eastern Naval Command Area of Responsibility would be sustained.

In her remarks, the Head Teacher of St. Paul’s African Primary School, Ibaka, Mrs Justina Uko, thanked the Nigerian Navy for the gesture, saying the initiative would enhance education in the community.

She emphasised the importance of girl-child in the country and prayed that God would continue to bless the Nigerian Navy for impacting knowledge on the pupils of the school.

Okon Bassey in  Uyo

Satisfied with her performance as Transition Committee (TC) Chairman of Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, women from the area have pleaded for the adoption of Hon. Mercy Bassey as the sole candidate  in the planned local government elections.  

The President of Mbong Iban Mkpat Enin chapter of the women group, Obonganwan Rose Ekanem, made the call in a meeting with grassroots women across the local government.

 Ekanem, who is also the Leader Mkpat Enin Grassroots Women thanked  Governor Umo Eno and  his wife,  Pastor Patience Umo Eno over the selection of Lady Bassey as the Chairman of the  TC of Mkpat Enin.

 She said the appointment of Lady Bassey  as  chairman has changed political narrative of the area with hopes for a brighter future of the indigenes,support for  sustainable and human capital development as well as food security.

She called on the women to support  the transition committee chairman, saying the meeting was to  equip the women with useful information ahead of the local government elections in the state 

The women leader said the choice of the transition chairman as their preferred aspirant was as a result of the competency demonstrated within her seven months in office.

“As experience women, we are witnesses of how Mercy Bassey has transformed the Council Secretariat to an attractive and conducive environment and also  refurbished  dilapidated facilities,  medical services by rehabilitating and equipping the Primary Health Centre, among others,” Ekanem said.

Also speaking, the wife of a one- time Special Adviser to former Governor Victor Attah on Political and Legislative Affairs, Mrs Grace Udobia, praised the transition chairman’s ingenuity at ensuring all inclusive governance and  galvanising Mkpat Enin people into one political direction. 

Mrs Udobia said she has found leadership qualities in the transition chairman  urging the women to rally  support for her  to ensure Mkpat Enin women are given a place in the political space of the area.

In her speech, Mrs Aniekan Sam who said the transition chairman has convinced the people that she is well versed with wisdom, knowledge and ability to give the people effective service  with the interest of the people and the local government at heart.

In her remarks, Obonganwan Arit Sunday enumerated  the  achievements of  Lady Bassey to include; construction of  road that links many villages from Ibebwe, Ikot mkpeye,  Ikot Unya, Ikot Eyienhe, Ife town etc that makes lives easy for the citizens living in interior rural area.

“We have been playing the role of back-benchers for  decades, now it is the  turn of the women to produce the Execution Chairman of Mkpat Enin and we will be given the right of that 40 per cent affirmative action as done in other local governments.

In the same vein, Mrs Emem Thompson  said the transition chairman’s performances within six months have raised no doubt that if given a chance as executive chairman the local government will turn a new look.

Mrs Thompson, who said that the performance of Hon. Bassey was in line with the governor’s ARISE agenda which captures Agriculture Revolution for food security, Infrastructural Maintenance and Advancement, Educational Advancement, Rural Development and  Security Management, explained  that  the transition  chairman has made impactful touch on all those areas and called on the state governor and his dear wife to support their daughter, Hon. Mercy Bassey to complete all the good works she has started which is a clear vision for the development of Mkpat Enin.

In her goodwill message, Woman Leader representing Ikpa Ibom Ward 3, Mrs Emem Usoro, expressed satisfaction over the choice of the transition chairman as the next Executive chairman of Mkpat Enin.

She said Lady Bassey was the best choice and option for the women given the fact that the transition chairman has been able to demonstrate managerial prowess making the people feel the impact of her administration by being able to manage the local government resources for the benefits of the constituents through programmes and projects.

She said even in the face of economic challenges  in the country the transition chairman was still able to embark on projects  for the benefit of the local government, and urged all the women to rise in support of Lady Bassey’s aspiration.

Also speaking the Supervisor of Women Affairs, Mkpat Enin Local Government Mrs Mercy unwana Usen threw her weight behind the aspiration of Hon. Bassey. 

She said her reasons for supporting the transition chairman was due to her diligent and hardworking nature which she has dedicated to the service of her people. 

She said Hon. Lady Mercy Bassey is only aspirant that will bring soccur to his people with a robust administration hence the need for all and sundry in the local government to support her.

In their separate speeches, Obonganwan Gladys Ikosong representing Ukpum Minya Ward 4, and Mrs Eno Afia commended the state governor and his wife, the first lady and first daughter of Mkpat Enin for giving Hon. Mercy Bassey an opportunity to serve as Transition chairman.

They said that calmness has returned to Mkpat Enin.

“There’s total peace in Mkpat Enin now people can now go out to their farms and other businesses including marriages and burial etc without fear of insecurity,” she said.

Okon Bassey in Uyo 

Satisfied with her performance as Transition Committee Chairman of Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, women from the area have pleaded for the adoption of Hon. Mercy Bassey as sole candidate during the planned local government elections in the state. 

The President of Mbong Iban Mkpat Enin chapter, Obonganwan Rose Ekanem made the call in a meeting with Grassroot women across the local government.

Obonganwan Ekanem who is also the leader of Mkpat Enin grassroot women thanked state Governor, Pastor Umo Eno and wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, over the selection of Lady Bassey as the Chairman, Transition Committee of Mkpat Enin.

She said the appointment of Lady Bassey as transition committee chairman has changed the political narrative of the area with hopes for a brighter future for the Indigenes, and support for  sustainable and human capital development as well as food security.

She called on the women to support the transition committee chairman, saying the meeting was to equip the women with useful information ahead of the local government elections in the state 

The women leader said the choice of the transition chairman as their preferred aspirant was as a result of the competency demonstrated within her seven months in office.

“As experienced women, we are witnesses of how Mercy Bassey has transformed the Council Secretariat to an attractive and conducive environment and also refurbishes dilapidated facilities, provided medical services by rehabilitating and equipping the Primary Health centre, among others. 

Also speaking, the wife of a one time special adviser to former Governor Victor Attah on political and legislative affairs, Mrs. Grace Udobia, praised the transition chairman’s ingenuity at ensuring all inclusive governance and  galvanising Mkpat Enin people into one political direction. 

Udobia said she has found leadership qualities in the transition chairman urging the women to rally  support for her  to ensure Mkpat Enin women are given a place in the political space of the area.

In her speech, Mrs. Aniekan Sam who said the transition chairman has convinced the people that she is well versed with wisdom, knowledge and ability to give the people effective service  with the interest of the people and the local government at heart.

In her remarks, Obonganwan Arit Sunday enumerated the achievements Lady Bassey to include; construction of  road that links many villages from ibebwe, Ikot mkpeye,  Ikot unya, Ikot Eyienhe, Ife town, others that makes lives easy for the citizens living in interior rural area.

“We have been playing the role of back-benchers for  decades, now it is the  turn of the women to produce the execution chairman of Mkpat Enin and We will be given the right of that 40 per cent affirmative action as done in other local governments.

In the same vein, Mrs. Emem Thompson at the meeting said the transition chairman performances within six months have raised no doubt that if given a chance as executive chairman the local government will turn a new look.

Thompson who said that the performance of Bassey was in line with the governor’s ARISE agenda which captures; Agriculture Revolution for food security, Infrastructural Maintenance and Advancement, Educational Advancement, Rural Development and and Security Management said the transition has made Impactful touch on all those areas and called on the state governor and his dear wife, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno and Mrs. Patience Umo Eno to support their daughter, Hon. Mercy Bassey to complete all the good works she has started which is a clear vision for the development of Mkpat Enin.

In her goodwill message, Woman Leader representing Ikpa Ibom ward 3, Mrs. Emem Usoro, expressed satisfaction over the choice of the transition chairman as the next Executive chairman of Mkpat Enin.

She said Lady Bassey was the best choice and option for the women given the fact that the transition chairman has been able to demonstrate managerial prowess making the people feel the impact of her administration by being able to manage the local government resources for the benefits of the constituents through programmes and projects.

According to her, even in the face of economic challenges  in the country the transition chairman was still able to embark on projects  for the benefit of the local government, and urged all the women to rise in support of Bassey’s aspiration.

Also speaking the supervisor of women affairs Mkpat Enin Local Government, Mrs. Mercy unwana Usen threw her weight behind the aspiration of Hon. Bassey. 

She said her reasons for supporting the transition chairman was due to her diligent and hardworking nature which she has dedicated to the service of her people. 

She said Bassey is the only aspirant that will bring succour to his people with a robust administration hence the need for all and sundry in the local government to support her.

In their separate speeches, Obonganwan Gladys Ikosong representing Ukpum Minya ward 4, and Mrs. Eno Afia commended the state governor and his wife, and first daughter of Mkpat Enin for giving Bassey an opportunity to serve as Transition chairman.

They said that calmness has returned to Mkpat Enin. “There’s total peace in Mkpat Enin now people can now go out to their farm and other businesses including marriages and burial etc without fear of insecurity. 

Mkpat Enin Grassroot women called on the state Governor and wife, the women and well-meaning people of Mkpat Enin to support Mercy Bassey as the next Executive chairman Mkpat Enin, expressing optimism that if the transition chairman is given a chance,  that Mkpat Enin will grow in both leaps and bounds within a shortest time.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, Waheed Ayilara, has cautioned officers and men of the Command against unprofessional conduct, stressing that the Command will not hesitate in dealing with anyone involved in misconducts and unprofessional acts.

The commissioner gave the warning at the end of his tour of the 31 local government areas of the state, including the Area Commands, Divisions and Formations. Interacting with officers and men of the Command, he assured them of management’s commitment in pursuing their welfare, urging them to continue to conduct themselves professionally.

Ayilara assured communities in the state that the Command under his leadership would continue to work towards safeguarding the rights of the citizens by the already established Police Complaint Response Unit within the Command.

The state Police Boss solicited the support of the local government chairmen and stakeholders in curbing crimes in the state

He maintained that the police in the state under his Command would continue to design and deploy strategic security measures to prevent crime in Akwa Ibom State.

Ayilara, who reiterated his commitment in providing security for lives and property in the state, said his doors are always open for constructive criticism and contributions from the citizens and public spirited individuals in the state as he is in the state not as a master but a servant poised to serve diligently. 

He explained that the  purpose of this tour was to assess the conditions of the divisions, engage with stakeholders, deepen local intelligence and also meet with members of the communities in the state.

Accordingly, CP Ayilara called for strategic partnership from all stakeholders towards the prevention of crime in the state.