Ifim Ibom Ibibio Commiserates With Governor Umo Eno Over Demise of Wife

 

Ifim Ibom Ibibio, the umbrella body of all Traditional Rulers in Ibibio Land in Akwa Ibom State, has commiserated with the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, on the untimely demise of his beloved wife, Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Umo Eno. 

 

The revered body, otherwise known as the Supreme Council of Ibibio Traditional Rulers, in a condolence message, described the death of the First Lady as shocking and an irreplaceable loss not only to the Governor and the immediate family but to the whole of Akwa Ibom State and humanity in general. 

 

Ifim Ibom Ibibio noted that her death was very painful and a profound loss considering her obvious and laudable support to her husband and to the success of his administration's ARISE Agenda through her pet project, the Golden Initiative For All, GIFA, which she used to touch many lives. 

The body in the message signed by His Eminence, Ntenyin Dr. Solomon Daniel Etuk, JP, CFR, Oku Ibom Ibibio, said, Akwa Ibom people will not easily forget her love and passion in service, as her impact was well felt through numerous humanitarian gestures covering children, women, the vulnerable and the elderly, despite the short period of her service as the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State. 

 

It further stated that the late Mrs. Eno was a virtuous woman, someone whose nobility, strength of character, moral goodness, capacity in service and objective resolutions were seen in her life as a wife, mother, steward of God and as the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State from May 29, 2023, until her sudden demise. 

 

Ifim Ibom Ibibio therefore called on all sons and daughters of Ibibio, at home and in the diaspora, to pray fervently for Governor Umo Eno and family, Ibibio Land and Akwa Ibom State in general, at this moment of grief. 

 

It also prayed to the Almighty God to grant him and the family the fortitude to bear the loss and to enable him to overcome this moment of grief while also enriching him with more vigour and wisdom to serve Akwa Ibom State excellently as he is doing.

The Late Pastor (Mrs) Patience Umo Eno, was reported dead by the Akwa Ibom State Government through a Press Release issue by Comrade Ini Ememobong, Commissioner for Information, Friday, September 27, 2024.

Death of Gov's Wife: Akwa Ibom NNPP Commiserates With Pastor Eno

The New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) in Akwa Ibom State has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Her Excellency, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, the beloved First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, who died today. 

In an emotional statement released by the State Chairman, Eld. Inemesit Akpan, the party joined the First Family and the entire state in mourning, portraying the late First Lady as a woman of exceptional grace, compassion, and resilience.

Eld. Akpan, on behalf of the dedicated members, stalwarts, and faithful supporters of the NNPP, conveyed his deepest sympathies to the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, during what he termed as an "unimaginably painful time" for the First Family. He acknowledged the profound loss felt by the state, referring to the late First Lady as Eka Iberedem Akwa Ibom, a mother and pillar of support who stood by the Governor through thick and thin.

The State NNPP Chairman highlighted Pastor Patience Eno's unwavering support for the Governor and her notable leadership among the women of Akwa Ibom, especially in guiding them closer to God. He eulogized the departed first lady for her compassion and commitment to the welfare of others, which was evident through her pet project, the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA).

"The First Lady embodied the values of love, care, and service to humanity. Her legacy of selflessness and kindness will forever be remembered by the many lives she touched," part of the statement read.

Eld. Akpan used the occasion to pray for God's comfort and strength for the Governor and his family, urging them to find solace in the cherished memories of the late First Lady's love and the significant contributions she made during her lifetime. 

"May the Almighty God, in His boundless mercy, envelop you with comfort and strength as you navigate through this period of immense sorrow," the party added.

First Lady's Death: IBESIKPO ASUTAN PDP CHAIRMANSHIP ASPIRANT G4 WRITES EMOTIONAL MESSAGE TO GOV. ENO

 

Your Excellency,

Words cannot truly express the sorrow that fills our hearts as we mourn the heartbreaking loss of your beloved wife, Her Excellency, Pastor Patience Umo Eno. Today, Akwa Ibom State grieves, for we have lost not just a First Lady, but a woman of immense grace, compassion, and strength. Her passing is a deep wound in the soul of our state, a sorrow that echoes across every heart.

Eka Iberedem Akwa Ibom, as she was fondly called by us was a pillar of support, standing by your side with unwavering loyalty. Through the Golden Initiative for All (GIFA), she embodied selfless love, bringing light and hope to the less privileged. Her legacy of kindness, service, and faith will forever remain etched in the hearts of those she touched.

We are all devastated by this painful loss, but we take solace in the words of John 14:27, where our Lord says: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” May God’s peace comfort you and the entire family during this tragic time.

May her gentle soul rest in peace, Amen!

Signed,

Mkpisong Nsikak Oku (G4)

PDP Chairmanship Aspirant, 2024 Local Government Primary Election.

WTD 2024: A'Ibom To Inaugurate Regatta, Fishing Festival Sept 27

 

As a deliberate measure to soothe Nwaniba and other communities hosting the Ibom Icon Hotel and the marina beach which is one of the major slave routes in Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Culture and Tourism will host its first ever boat regatta and fishing festival to celebrate world tourism day. 

The celebration is planned in line with the theme of the 2024 World Tourism Day (WTD) celebration, Tourism and Peace" designed to see tourism as sustainable transformation  driver to communities – creating jobs, fostering inclusion and strengthening local economies.



In a chat with newsmen in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital on Wednesday, the Commissioner, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh acknowledged the peaceful nature of the communities hosting Ibom Icon Hotel and other facilities therein, including the Nwaniba beaches, and  pledged state government preparedness to reciprocate such gestures. 



Udoh said the inaugural "Ibom Boat Regatta and Fishing Festival",  slated for September 27, 2024, at Marina Beach, will showcase the state’s rich maritime heritage and serve as a platform to promote tourism, culture, and peace.

The Culture and Tourism Commissioner listed highlights of the day to include the unveiling of a fully restored slave boat, symbolizing a painful yet significant chapter in the history of the region as one of the major slave routes during the transatlantic slave trade. 

The boat’s restoration, funded by the Ibom National Association of Akwa Ibom USA Incorporated, according to the Commissioner, underscores efforts to preserve the state’s heritage. Additionally, a newly established Slave Memorial Park, initiated by a local philanthropist, will also be officially commissioned during the festival.

Udoh, explained that these projects were  part of the state's broader vision to leverage Akwa Ibom’s historical and cultural assets. "Governor Umo Eno’s administration is committed to turning our rich heritage into a major economic driver. This year’s World Tourism Day focuses on peace, and through events like the regatta, we are fostering unity within the Marina community and beyond.”

The state government has made significant strides in preparing for the event, with robust security measures in place. "We have  partnered with the Nigerian Navy to acquire 14 gunboats to ensure safety in our waterways. In addition, we are introducing a fully air-conditioned luxury ferry service, expected to arrive soon, to boost marine transport and attract tourism to the area," the Commissioner added.

The festival, which also includes cultural displays, tug-of-war contests, and fishing competitions, will help stimulate local economies in coastal communities and attract both tourists and investors to the region. Participation will be by invitation, with the Governor of Akwa Ibom, Pastor Umo Eno, serving as the Special Guest of Honour.

He listed other efforts to make Akwa Ibom a tourism hub to include steps to harness its unique historical sites, such as the amalgamation site and locations tied to the 1929 Women's War, Mary Slessor House, all mapped out for preservation and restoration. 

In line with the vision to transform the sector, Udoh explained that  the state is also transforming an erosion-ravaged area into a world-class tourist center, as it is currently developing the area with a nine-hole golf course, an artificial lake with a restaurant at its center, luxury chalets, a football field, basketball courts, floodlights for night sports, and a children's park. These amenities are designed to offer  an all-inclusive experience for visitors, combining leisure, sports, and relaxation.

Udoh hinted that, to properly document and coordinate its tourism activities, the state government will, on the 2024 World's Tourism Day unveil the official tourism website of the state "discoverakwaibom.com", to carry out trend analysis of people and businesses for data gathering and future planning, list all the accredited tour operators, hotels and their grading to protect visitors and tourists from falling prey to scammers.

LG Polls: Akparawa Iniobong Obot Assures Landslide Victory for PDP

•••Drums Support For Gov. Eno's Rural Transformation Initiatives 

As the countdown to the October 5 local government elections in Akwa Ibom progresses, Deputy Leader of Eastern Nsit Ward 6, Akparawa Iniobong Obot, has confidently assured a landslide victory for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Obot gave the assurance during the presentation ceremony for the PDP Chairmanship candidate, Prince Anthony Nyong, and the ward Councilorship candidate, Veronica Ubeh, held yesterday by the leadership of Nsit Atai Eastern Nsit Ward 6.

The heavyweight politician who served as a member of the just concluded Ward Congress and played a pivotal role as elections coordinator in the 2023 general elections, opined that Ward 6 in Nsit Atai LGA will deliver the highest number of votes and ensured a decisive victory for the PDP.

The National Youth Leader of the Uyo Senatorial District People’s Initiative (USPI) and a distinguished financial expert with numerous accolades in the banking and insurance sectors, used the occasion to eulogize Governor Umo Eno for his Christ-centric leadership. He took ample time to highlight how the Governor's leadership style has fostered peace and harmony among party members and, by extension, throughout Akwa Ibom State.

The Elder of the Apostolic Church Nigeria lauded the emergence of a female Councilorship candidate from his ward as a historic achievement. While pledging his support to the campaign efforts, Obot urged all party members to support the Governor’s rural development initiatives as encapsulated in the A.R.I.S.E. Agenda and remain committed to the success of party.

Addressing the stakeholders, the PDP Chairmanship candidate; Prince Anthony Nyong expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Eastern Nsit Ward 6 for their steadfast support. He commended Governor Umo Eno’s dedication to rural transformation, women’s inclusion, and the appointment of personal aides across all wards. Nyong emphasized the importance of unity and active participation in the campaign.

On her part, the Councilorship candidate; Veronica Ubeh also acknowledged the Governor’s policies on women and pledged to provide effective representation that exceeds her predecessors' achievements.

The presentation ceremony, led by Pastor Samuel Nyong and PDP Ward Chairman Mr. Ita Okon Udo, marked a key moment as the October 5th elections approach.

Moderated by Unwana Orok, the event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Royal Fathers led by the Village Head of Ikot Edebe; Chief Effiong Edet and Nsit Atai PDP Chapter Chairman Ndifreke Ntia. 

In their goodwill messages, the leaders encouraged party members to uphold the values of the PDP, unify their efforts, and support all PDP candidates in the area to ensure a successful outcome in the forthcoming Local Government polls.

G4 INDUCTED AS MKPISONG BY AKWA ESOP IMAISONG

 

•••Calls for Unity, Collective Development Among Ibibios  

In recognition of his remarkable contributions to the development of the Ibibio Nation and Akwa Ibom State at large, a former PDP Chairmanship aspirant from Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, Obong Nsikak Oku, has been inducted as a member of Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio. He was also honoured with the prestigious title of Mkpisong.

The investiture ceremony took place on Friday at Asan Ibibio, Ikot Oku Ikono, in Uyo, the state capital.

Speaking during the event, Ntisong Pius James Okon, Ntisong IV of Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio, praised Obong Nsikak Oku and other inductees for their exceptional commitment to the Ibibio people, as well as their philanthropic efforts, which have positively impacted countless lives across the state. 

Ntisong IV, who was the host, stated that the Mkpisong title was a testament to Obong Oku and other inductees' consistent advocacy for the progress of Akwa Ibom and their efforts in promoting Ibibio culture.

He urged the new inductees to remain steadfast in their pursuit of peace, unity, and development within the Ibibio community, encouraging them to continue advancing the well-being of the people.

Speaking to journalists after the event, Obong Nsikak Oku, popularly known as G4, expressed profound gratitude to Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio for the honour.

In his words, "This recognition is not just for me, but for every son and daughter of Ibibio who has played a role in building our great nation. I am deeply humbled and will continue to use my resources and influence to foster unity, growth, and development in Akwa Ibom State."

He continued, "The time has come for all sons and daughters of Ibibio land, both at home and in the diaspora, to stand together to preserve our heritage and ensure a brighter future for the next generation."

The former Exxon Mobil management staff and renowned philanthropist used the occasion to call for collaboration among all Ibibio people, urging them to work together to realize the dreams of their forebears.

"We have come far as a people, but we can achieve more if we unite. Let us work hand-in-hand to continue the legacy of our fathers and ensure that the Ibibio Nation remains a beacon of progress in Nigeria," G4 added.

The event also featured the formal presentation of honours and awards, fatherly blessings from Oku Ibom Ibibio, His Eminence, Ntenyin (Dr.) Solomon Etuk, an induction lecture by Mkpisong (Dr.) Emmanuel Akpanobong, and cultural displays.

In attendance were several groups and dignitaries, including Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio, Paramount Rulers, notable Ibibio elders, traditional rulers, and political heavyweights.

Meanwhile, the newly inducted Mkpisong led his friends, well-wishers, and supporters to the G4 sit-out along Wellington Bassey Way, Uyo, where a reception was held, with sumptuous meals and assorted drinks served.

Uyo Chairmanship: JIMAIMAH ESSIEN DRUMS SUPPORT FOR DR. UDO RE-ELECTION

 

••• Extols Gov. Eno for Transformational Leadership 

As the political clock for the local government elections in the state ticks closer, support for the re-election bid of the immediate-past Transition Committee Chairman of Uyo Local Government Area, Hon. (Dr.) Uwemedimo Udo, is gaining momentum.

Recall that the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC) has slated the council polls in the state for October 5, 2024. This development has seen Dr. Udo, an academic turned politician, widely endorsed across the 14 wards of Uyo by stakeholders, elders, women, and youths.

Speaking to journalists and bloggers on Monday in Uyo, a United Kingdom-based mental health practitioner and staunch supporter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Akparawa Jimaimah Essien, rallied support for Dr. Udoh's second term.

Akparawa Essien, who hails from Ifa Atai village, Etoi clan in Uyo LGA, emphasized the remarkable achievements recorded during Hon. Udo's first term as Executive Chairman of the Council.

He stated: "Gentlemen, I'm proud to say that Dr. Uwemedimo Udo entered politics fully prepared, which is why his first term brought remarkable development to all the wards of Uyo. Every son and daughter of Uyo can testify that his three years as Executive Chairman produced tangible results that remain fresh in our minds. The projects are countless; the construction, completion, and inauguration of the Udom Emmanuel Administrative Block and provision of an electric transformer at the Council Secretariat, the modern health centres at Ewet Offot and Ikot Ebido, among others.

"Based on my findings, I can state categorically that these projects and programmes have greatly benefited the council workers, the entire communities, and even neighbouring areas. Given these achievements, it is imperative that Dr. Udo is re-elected for a second term, as our people say, 'one good turn deserves another.'"

The former House of Assembly aspirant for Uyo State Constituency in 2019 also commended Dr. Udo’s efforts since being sworn in as Transition Committee Chairman in December 2023, highlighting the Chairman's innumerable achievements as enshrined in his 'Service Alone' blueprint.

He said the people were elated over the recent construction and furnishing of the new Golden Technical Block for the Council’s Works Department, which was commissioned by Governor Umo Eno. Essien stressed that such a mega project was a testament to Dr. Udo’s dedication to creating a conducive working environment for council staff.

The mental health expert further praised Dr. Udo’s initiatives in empowering local businesses and supporting education. He cited the N5.5 million business grant to women, bursaries, and JAMB application forms for Uyo students as proof of his commitment to the welfare of the people.

Jimaimah Essien, while praising the Dr. Udo, also pointed to the massive road grading projects of his administration across the four clans of Offot, Etoi, Oku, and Ikono. He said the initiative was a significant contribution to improving access within the local government area.

Meanwhile, Akparawa Essien had used the occasion to eulogize Governor Umo Eno for what he termed Christ-centric leadership in the state.

The Akparawa Ibibio specifically praised Governor Eno for appointing many sons and daughters of Uyo into key positions in his administration, including the Secretary to the State Government and Political leader of Uyo, Prince Enobong Uwah, Commissioners Mr. Charles Udoh and Mr. John James, and Board Chairmen; Hon. Monday Eyo and Hon. Anietie Eka, among others.

He promised to mobilize the support of his ward and the entire Uyo people for Dr. Uwemedimo Udo’s Service Alone Reloaded project, while also pledging unalloyed support for the ARISE agenda of Pastor Umo Eno.