Eteidung Asikpo Congratulates Prof. Chris Ekong on Appointment as UNIUYO Vice-Chancellor

 

The Village Head of Ekpri Nsukara Offot in Uyo Local Government Area, Eteidung Emem Denis Asikpo, has congratulated Professor Chris Ekong on his successful appointment as the substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University of Uyo.

Eteidung Asikpo, in a goodwill message, said the appointment of Professor Ekong by the Governing Council of UNIUYO was a wise decision, considering his excellent academic credentials, proven leadership and administrative abilities, and diligence in promoting the institution's educational aims.

The Royal Father, whose village, Ekpri Nsukara Offot, is one of the co-hosts of the University of Uyo along Nwaniba Road, Uyo, assured the new Vice-Chancellor of the community's support, goodwill, and solidarity at all times.

He expressed confidence that Ekong's tenure as Vice-Chancellor will further boost the university's prospects by transforming it into a greater institution filled with innovation, scholarship, infrastructural development, and global academic recognition.

Eteidung Emem Asikpo, Village Head of Ekpri Nsukara Offot, Uyo LGA

"Ekpri Nsukara Offot, being one of the co-hosts of the University of Uyo, will continue the support we have always extended to the institution, especially since you are also an indigene of Offot Ukwa Clan in Uyo LGA."

"We are very confident that your tenure as Vice-Chancellor will further enhance the fortunes of the University of Uyo by transforming it into a greater institution filled with innovation, scholarship, infrastructural development, and global academic recognition."

Eteidung Asikpo prayed to God to grant Prof. Ekong more wisdom, strength, and protection as he steps into the role of substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University of Uyo, to provide impactful leadership and service to the revered institution.

Prof. Chris Ekong, a distinguished professor of Economics from Uyo Local Government Area, is a former Special Adviser to the Bureau of Youth and Culture, a former Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Commissioner for Economic Development, and Chief Economic Adviser to the Governor, among others.

He has also held several positions within the university, including Head of the Department of Economics, University of Uyo; Director of the International Programmes of the University of Uyo; Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, UNIUYO; Chairman of the Committee of Deans, University of Uyo; among others.

Dilapidated Edemaya Bridge: CHURCH APPEALS FOR URGENT GOVT ACTION

 

The Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Ikot Abasi, has drawn attention to the deteriorating state of the Atan Ikpe Bridge in Edemaya Clan, urging urgent but measured government intervention to avert further hardship for residents and road users.

The concern formed part of a communiqué issued at the end of the 34th Annual Diocesan Synod of the church, held from April 23 to April 26, 2026, at Methodist Church Nigeria, Atan Ikpe.

Presided over by the Diocesan Bishop, the Right Reverend Usen S. Akpanenua, alongside the Lay President, Elder Engr Uwem Akpan, and the Synod Secretary, Very Rev Dr Uwem Ekanem, the gathering brought together clergy and laity from across the Diocese.

In the communiqué, the Synod specifically praised ongoing development efforts by the Akwa Ibom State Government as encapsulated in the ARISE Agenda, but noted that the condition of the Atan Ikpe Bridge has become a source of concern to the people, as it continues to affect movement, commerce and daily life in the area.

The church appealed to the state government to give attention to the bridge in order to ease transportation challenges and support economic activities within Edemaya Clan and the wider Ikot Abasi Local Government Area.

The Synod also raised concerns over the prevailing economic hardship in the country, pointing to the rising cost of food, transportation and basic services, and called on government at all levels to take practical steps to address the situation.

It further decried the poor electricity supply in Ikot Abasi despite the presence of power infrastructure in the area, urging improved distribution to boost local productivity.

On national issues, while commending the Federal Government for the ongoing reforms, the church called for peace, justice and unity, urging leaders to remain accountable and responsive to the needs of the people. It also advised political actors to embrace issue based engagement as the country approaches another election cycle.

The Synod commended the Prelate of Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr Oliver Ali Abba, for his leadership and for setting a timely theme for the conference, while also noting the significance of the Methodist Theological Institute, Ibaka, as a step towards strengthening ministerial training.

Meanwhile, the communiqué was jointly signed by the Synod leadership, who reiterated the church’s commitment to constructive engagement and peaceful advocacy on matters affecting society.

APOSTLE UWEM ABASIODU DISBURSES N2M BURSARY, EMPOWERMENT TO UMI MEMBERS

 

…As UMI sustains education, welfare support scheme

As part of activities marking the birthday of its General Overseer, Apostle Dr Mrs Uwem Abasiodu, Uwem Ministries International (UMI) has disbursed N2 million bursary and empowerment support to members, reinforcing its commitment to education and welfare.

The latest phase of the intervention was rolled out during a Royal Birthday Fellowship held on April 23, 2026, at the ministry headquarters along Aka Obot Idim Road, Uyo.

The scheme, which began in October 2025, targets students and small scale entrepreneurs within the church, and is being implemented in phases to accommodate more beneficiaries.

In the current phase, priority was given to student members, particularly those serving in the choir. Beneficiaries include Dayeabasi Nimmong Ibanga, Utibe David Friday, Esther Idorenyin Mfon, Uwakmfon Idorenyin, Enomfon Akpan, Faith Alphonsus and Miguel Nse.

Speaking at the fellowship, Apostle Uwem Abasiodu urged members to remain patient and supportive of one another, assuring that the programme would be sustained.

“This empowerment will get to everyone who has made sacrifices in the church. Be patient and do not be envious. Your time will surely come,” she said.

The event also featured the cutting of the birthday cake, praise and worship, a special presentation by the UMI Voices, and an exhortation by Bishop Elisha Nelson.

The ministry said the bursary and empowerment scheme will continue in phases as part of its broader effort to support members and strengthen livelihoods.

Eteidung Asikpo Applauds Gov. Eno On the Commissioning of Ultra-modern Agric Equipment Leasing Facility in Uyo

 

Eteidung Emem Denis Asikpo, 
Village Head of Ekpri Nsukara Offot, Uyo LGA

The Village Head of Ekpri Nsukara Offot in Uyo Local Government Area, Eteidung Emem Denis Asikpo, has lauded the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, for the commissioning of the ultra-modern Ibom Agric Equipment Leasing facility at Ekpri Nsukara, Uyo.

Eteidung Asikpo, who spoke at the commissioning of the newly built facility on Wednesday, said Governor Eno has recorded another milestone in the state's agricultural sector development.

Eteidung Asikpo speaking at the event...

He noted that the project, as a strategic initiative of the administration of Pastor Umo Eno, will go a long way to accelerate mechanised agriculture and boost commercial farming, through the provision of needed equipment to farmers.

"Ibom Equipment Leasing Limited is a key component of the Agricultural Revolution mantra of the ARISE Agenda, which also embodies the Food Security Programme, farmers' grant, the Ibom Model Farm, and the Tree Crop Revolution, among other initiatives of Governor Umo Eno's administration," he enthused.

Ibom Equipment Leasing limited

Eteidung Asikpo further said that Ekpri Nsukara as the host community of Ibom Equipment Leasing Limited, truly values the siting of the project in their village and accordingly assured that they will cooperate fully with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the state government as a whole, for its successful operation.

He used the occasion to appeal passionately to the Governor, whom he described as a "dedicated, hardworking, and people-centric Leader," to consider addressing some deplorable roads and erosion menace that endanger the community, especially during the rainy season. 

Governor Umo Eno driving one of the Tractors, during the commissioning ceremony, Wednesday.

He also urged the government to intervene in the community-owned Ekpri Nsukara Offot International Schools (ENISCO), which borders the Ibom Equipment Leasing Limited with the provision of equipment and additional school blocks, etc. 

"Ekpri Nsukara Offot earnestly appeals to our dedicated, hardworking, and people-centric Leader, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, PhD, Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, to consider addressing some deplorable roads and erosion threats that endanger our community, especially during the rainy season. 

"We also passionately require government intervention in our community-owned Ekpri Nsukara Offot International Schools (ENISCO), which borders this facility, Ibom Equipment Leasing Limited," he said. 

The village head pledged the full support of the community to the administration of Governor Umo Eno and to the continuation of his leadership into 2027 and beyond. 

According to him, they hold this conviction strongly, having witnessed the monumental impact of the ARISE Agenda across the entire State.

Gov. Umo Eno (middle), flanked by Dep. Gov. Akon Eyakenyi, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Obareki, and others at the commissioning of the Ibom Equipment Leasing Limited in Ekpri Nsukara Offot, Uyo, Wednesday.

"Obong Emem Akwa Ibom State, we love and cherish your leadership! May the good Lord bless you and all those present here," he said. 

The Ibom Equipment Leasing Facility is positioned as a central hub for agricultural mechanisation, providing equipment leasing for land preparation services and technical support to farmers, cooperatives and agribusinesses. 

The company is equipped with critical infrastructure, including administrative buildings, a fully fitted maintenance workshop, tractor sheds, as well as a fleet of tractors with accompanying implements and two low-bed trailers to ensure efficient deployment and operations.

62nd Birthday: Former Senate Deputy Chief Whip, Ibok Essien, Hails Gov Eno

 

A former Deputy Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate, Sen. Emmanuel Ibok Essien, FNSE has congratulated Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on the occasion of his birthday, describing him as a people-centred leader whose administration has fostered peace and stability in the state.

In a goodwill message, Essien commended the governor’s leadership style, noting that the prevailing atmosphere of calm and unity across Akwa Ibom reflects deliberate efforts at reconciliation and inclusive governance.

He also acknowledged the governor’s support for individuals and businesses, describing his disposition as compassionate and impactful.

The Senator prayed for continued divine guidance, good health and wisdom for the governor, expressing confidence that his leadership would yield greater progress for the state.

“God’s grace and abundant blessings shall continue to rest upon you. I wish you long life, sound health and more wisdom as you continue to serve,” Essien stated.

Governor Eno marked his 62nd birthday on April 24, 2026.

Oku Ibom Ibibio Mourns Late King (Dr.) Dandeson Douglas Jaja

 

Oku Ibom Ibibio and President General of Akwa Ibom State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, His Eminence, Ntenyin (Dr.) Solomon Daniel Etuk, CFR has mourned the loss of His Majesty, King (Dr.) Dandeson Douglas Jaja, Jeki V. 

Ntenyin Etuk described the transition of King Jaja, the revered Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom and former Chairman of the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Council, whose remains were laid to rest on Saturday, as a significant loss. 

His Majesty, Late King (Dr.) Dandeson Douglas Jaja, Jeki V.

In his tribute at the funeral service, the Patriarch of Ibibios worldwide, who led a delegation of traditional rulers from Akwa Ibom State, said the deceased was a respected leader known for his wisdom, dignity, and commitment to unity and development within and outside his domain, state, and the nation as a whole. 

He said, "Here was a friend of immense value - an enigma, an epitome of peace and a bridge builder. His Majesty, Late King (Dr.) Dandeson Douglas Jaja made distinctive marks as a traditional ruler. 

"He will surely be remembered for his contributions to Opobo Kingdom, Rivers State, and Nigeria, particularly in promoting cultural heritage and unity."

According to the Supreme Monarch, the late King Jaja was renowned for his diplomacy, humility, and progressive outlook, promoting education, youth empowerment, healthcare, and the general well-being of the Opobo Kingdom. This development earned him respect from his subjects and peers. 

He consoled the family, the Opobo Kingdom, the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Council and the Rivers State Government on the demise of their beloved king, and prayed God to grant them the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss. 

His Eminence, Ntenyin Dr Solomon Daniel Etuk, CFR in a warm handshake with the new King, Alabo Charles Mac-Pepple Jaja (Jeki VI)

Ntenyin Etuk also wished the King-elect of Opobo Kingdom, Alabo Charles Mac-Pepple Jaja (Jeki VI), successes as he ascends the throne and prayed to God to give him  the strength, grace, wisdom and wherewithal to rule his subjects and uphold the legacies of his predecessors. 

His Majesty, Late King (Dr.) Dandeson Douglas Jaja, born on April 28, 1942, passed away at the age of 83 years.

The funeral service was held at the St. Paul's Anglican Church, Opobo Town, Rivers State on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

All Eyes on Capital City as ARISE With Renewed Hope Initiative Inaugurates Uyo Wednesday

 

All eyes will be on Uyo on Wednesday as the ARISE with Renewed Hope Initiative formally inaugurates its 27th chapter in the state capital, marking another phase in the expansion of the movement across the State and Country.

The event, scheduled for 2pm at the Ibom Hall, Uyo is expected to draw a cross-section of political stakeholders from across the 14 wards, including socio-political groups, the traditional institution, clerics, youth and women organisations, among others.

Speaking ahead of the event, the Executive Chairman of Uyo Local Government who doubles as the ALGON Chairman in the state, Dr Uwemedimo Udo, said the capital city is in high spirits to receive the ARISE with Renewed Hope Initiative train, led by its President General, Engr. Uwem Okoko, FNSE, alongside members of its international structure.

He noted that Uyo, as the seat of government, has witnessed significant development under the administration of Governor Umo Eno, in line with the ARISE Agenda, spanning agriculture, rural development, infrastructure expansion, security, education, healthcare and human capital development among others.

Dr Udo stated that the people of Uyo have, in appreciation of these strides, resolved to continue to support the administration beyond 2027, while also backing the Senate President in his efforts to attract more development to the state, and aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership at the centre.

He called on indigenes, residents and friends of Uyo to turn out in large numbers, describing the event as one of the most anticipated chapter inaugurations of the initiative so far.