ELDER INIOBONG OBOT TO BURY FATHER ON MONDAY DEC. 30

Preparations are in top gear for the final farewell of Late Elder Moses Effiong Akpan, father of Akparawa (Elder) Iniobong Effiong Obot, as the serene Ikot Nko community in Nsit Atai Local Government Area comes alive with activities.

The burial, scheduled for Monday, December 30, 2024, will include a funeral service and interment at the deceased’s residence along Ikot Edong Road, near Ekpene Ukim Airport Junction.

In a release, the Chief Mourner, Akparawa Ini Abasi, who is also the National Youth Leader of the Uyo Sensorial District People’s Initiative (USPI), described his late father as a man of integrity whose legacy remains a source of inspiration. He also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and condolence messages received so far.

The burial rites began earlier with the Opening of Funeral House on Sunday, December 22, 2024, and will continue this evening, Saturday, December 28, 2024, with a Night of Songs.

The late Elder Akpan, fondly called "OWOEKONGABASI," was a devoted cleric who left a profound impact on his community.

The Chief Mourner, on behalf of the family, extends heartfelt invitation to family members, friends, and well-wishers to join in honouring and celebrating the remarkable life and legacy of the 93-year-old patriarch.

NIA Seeks Collaboration with AKSG for a healthier, more sustainable, safer built environment

•••Holds Architects’ Happy Hour

By Benjamin Jimmy

The Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, has called for a collaborative effort with the state government to ensure a healthier, more sustainable and safer built environment. This appeal was made by the Chapter's Chairman, Arc. Edidiong Ukpong, PhD, during the Institute's end-of-year event, "Architects' Happy Hour," held in Etinan.

Arc. Dr. Ukpong emphasized the need for Architects to be positioned in key leadership roles to ensure sanity in the building environment. He expressed concern over the lack of expertise in building projects, which has led to a surge in building collapse nationwide.

"The isolation of Architects from building projects has demeaned our profession and has a telling effect on our built environment," Arc. Dr. Ukpong said. "We urge the government to collaborate with us to create a safer and more sustainable building environment." Indigenous architects should be employed as aides (Personal Assistants and Special Assistants etc.) to the state governor, supervisors and consultants in building projects for firsthand and topnotch professional advice on the building projects, being the leader and technically vested with the knowledge of the conceptualisation and realisation of buildings which will guarantee a safer and more sustainable built environment.

The Chairman outlined his administration's key objectives, including the construction of an Architects' House, engagement with government agencies, and fostering stronger relationships between elderly and young Architects.

During the event, Arc. Dr. Ukpong recognized members who had achieved notable milestones, including induction into the College of Fellows and successful doctoral thesis defenses.

Speaking with our reporter after the event, Arc. Ukpong, Ph.D reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to partnering with the government in designing resilient and innovative projects that align with the ARISE Agenda. He pledged that architects in Akwa Ibom would continue to support Pastor Umo Eno's drive to create a state that prioritizes people-centered development and sustainable growth.

Meanwhile, the host, Arc. Ekong Etuk, encouraged members to utilize their expertise to benefit humanity and create job opportunities. The event featured games, dance, and presentations, with dignitaries such as Member representing Etinan/Nsit Ibom/Nsit Ubium Federal Constituency, Obong Hon. Paul Ekpo in attendance.

Former Etim Ekpo Chairman Imeh Afia Hails Gov Eno For Unprecedented Transparent Leadership

The just concluded three-day Akwa Ibom State Executive Council Ministerial Briefing/ End-of-Year Review has continued to draw commendations from stakeholders. One of them is the immediate-past Chairman, Etim Ekpo Local Government Council, Rt. Hon. Imeh Afia, who described Governor Umo Eno's leadership as unprecedented in the state's history.

Speaking on Friday during a phone interview with a private radio station in Uyo, the former Council Boss commended Governor Umo Eno for openly subjecting his administration to public assessment through the live broadcast of the event. He noted that such a bold step can only come from no other leader, except one who is transparent, accountable and committed to inclusive governance.

Obongemem Imeh Afia

“I followed the entire briefing online and through various news reports. For three days, ministries, departments, and agencies presented their scorecards in the presence of stakeholders, and the Governor himself was open to scrutiny. This is something we have never seen before in Akwa Ibom State," Afia said.

He described the initiatives and policies of Governor Eno, including the planned revitalization of the state-owned Peacock Paints and the establishment of Ibom Oil Mineral Exploration Company, as impactful, visionary, and business-oriented.

Obongemem Imeh Afia also praised the Governor for prioritizing innovation through the planned launch of the Akwa Ibom Geographical Information System (AkwaGIS) Agency under the Ministry of Lands and Town Planning. He highlighted the significance of digitalizing land administration as a step toward boosting investors’ confidence and enhancing economic growth.

He said: “His Excellency our leader, Governor Umo Bassey Eno, Ph.D, is running government as a business, with the conscience of a true entrepreneur. The revitalization of Ibom Paints, the bold move into oil exploration, and the digitalization of land processes are excellent and gargantuan ideas. He is clearly setting a new standard for governance in this state.”

The one-time Councillor in Etim Ekpo, commended the State Chief Executive for presenting business grants to 15,000 youths registered on the state job portal. He described the Governor as a visionary leader who understands the importance of empowering young people for sustainable development. He noted that such a visionary initiative is not only a boost to the entrepreneurial ecosystem but also a lifeline for many youths aspiring to create meaningful livelihoods.

Speaking on the N500,000 grant for citizens engaged in small-scale farming at their homes, Afia applauded the Governor's foresight in promoting agricultural productivity and food security. He said the initiative would encourage more residents to embrace farming, reduce dependence on external food sources, and enhance household income, describing it as a practical approach to grassroots economic empowerment.

While eulogizing the determination of Pastor Eno to fill observed gaps in governance and to sustain citizens’ engagement through proposed town hall meetings across federal constituencies in the new year, Obongemem Imeh Afia pledged his continued support for the ARISE agenda.

High Court Restrains Akwa Ibom Govt. From Acquisition Of Ekpri Nsukara Offot Community’s School Land

 

 

A High Court in Akwa Ibom State has restrained the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development; the Ministry of Lands and Water Resources; the Attorney General of Akwa Ibom State and the Akwa Ibom State Government from forceful acquisition of Ekpri Nsukara Offot Community’s school land until a subsisting suit filed by the village is decided.

The order of interim junction was granted on Thursday, December 12, 2024 by His Lordship, Hon. Justice Joy I. Unwana of the High Court of Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria, in the Uyo Judicial Division, in suit no. HU/306/2024, upon a motion Ex-Parte brought before the Court by Ekpri Nsukara Offot Village in Uyo Local Government Area, through their Counsel, Samuel Ikpo, Esq.   

The Court, upon its consideration of the application, affidavit in support, exhibits attached thereto and written address on the Motion Ex-Parte by the Village against the government, ordered that “an Order of Interim Injunction be and is hereby issued against the Defendants/Respondents, restraining them, their agents, servants, workmen and whosoever acting on their behalf from further entering the Land measuring 4.321 Hectares and delineated in Survey Plan No. JEJ/AK/75576.”

The order also barred the Defendants/Respondents, their agents, servants, workmen and whosoever, from carrying out any manner of work in the Land pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice filed on the 9th day of August, 2024.

The Court adjourned the case to the 18th day of December, 2024 for the Motion on Notice.

It read, “That an Order of Interim Injunction be and is hereby issued against the Defendants/Respondents, restraining them, their agents, servants, workmen and whosoever acting on their behalf from further entering into the Claimants/Applicants' parcel of land lying, situate and being at Ekpri Nsukara Road, Ekpri Nsukara Offot, Uyo measuring an area of 4.321 Hectares more particularly delineated in SURVEY PLAN NO. JEJ/AK/75576 and doing any manner of work thereon pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice filed on the 9th day of August, 2024.

“That this case is adjourned to the 18th day of December, 2024 for Motion on Notice.”

The community had approached the court on August 9, 2024 for arbitration following series of forceful means by persons claiming to be Officials of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Ministry of Lands and Water Resources to acquire the community's land where its only educational institution, the Ekpri Nsukara Offot International Schools (ENISCO) was built. 

The recent case being the invasion of the Ekpri Nsukara Offot International Schools’ compound  during school hours at about 11:45am on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 and carried out demolition of some parts of the perimeter fencing and some adjoining buildings, a situation that almost degenerated to a violent clash with members of the community if not for the quick intervention of the Village head, Eteidung Emem Denis Asikpo and the Principal of ENISCO, Elder Domingo Bassey Etim, who doubles as the secretary to the Village council, as they calmed frayed nerves and ensured the officials were not attacked.

However, it was learnt that since the Community approached the court for arbitration on the matter, the defendants in the case – the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development; the Ministry of Lands and Water Resources; the Attorney General of Akwa Ibom State and the Akwa Ibom State Government have not made appearances or file statements of defence.

The Village head of Ekpri Nsukara Offot, Eteidung Emem Denis Asikpo lamented that the community has not received any official notification from the government for the acquisition of their land, either have they received compensation or formally discussed the matter, thereby creating fears that the officials involved may merely be promoting their selfish interests.

Eteidung Asikpo further appealed to the state Governor, Pastor Umo Eno to step into the matter so as to save the community's school from extinction.

False Allegations Against UniUyo VC: Akwa Ibom Unity Forum Issues Retraction, Apology

 

The Akwa Ibom Unity Forum has publicly retracted and apologized for false allegations made against the Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo, Professor Nyaudoh Ndaeyo, following a petition submitted to the National Universities Commission in May 2023.

Recall that during last year’s general elections in Akwa Ibom, the forum submitted a petition dated May 10, 2023, accusing Professor Nyaudoh Ndaeyo of suppressing records of an alleged expulsion of the then PDP governorship candidate in the state, by the University of Uyo. The petition further claimed that the supposed cover-up was politically motivated and influenced by the prevailing political climate at the time.

However, at a press conference held today in Uyo, the forum, led by Hon. Uko Idiong, Hon. Aniedi Iwok, and Hon. Charles Ndanyongmong, expressed deep regret for the damage caused to the reputation of Pastor Umo Eno, Professor Ndaeyo, the university’s integrity, and the broader academic community. The retraction, according to the forum, follows an internal review that revealed the claims made in the petition were unfounded and based on misinformation.

After a thorough investigation, the organization admitted that all allegations were completely false and based on inaccurate information.

“We deeply regret the distress and embarrassment caused to Professor Ndaeyo and the University of Uyo. The petition, based on misinformation, was an unfortunate episode for which we take full responsibility,” part of the press statement said 

The Forum also issued a public apology to the National Universities Commission, the Federal Ministry of Education, and other stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, who were impacted by the false claims.

“We are committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and fairness in all our future engagements. This experience has reinforced our commitment to verifying information before making public statements or submitting petitions,” the statement further read.

Meanwhile, leaders of the Akwa Ibom Unity Forum expressed regret over the incident, even as they acknowledged the valuable lessons learned. They pledged to exercise greater caution in the future and ensure that all information disseminated is thoroughly verified and supported by credible evidence.

DANESPER GLOBAL LIMITED FELICITATES SENATOR AKPABIO AT 62

 

A leading firm in road construction and engineering, Danesper Global Limited, has congratulated the President of the Senate, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, on the occasion of his 62nd birthday on Monday December 9, 2024.

In a statement signed by its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Unwana Johnathan, and made available to newsmen, the company commended Senator Akpabio’s exemplary leadership and remarkable contributions to Nigeria's development.

The statement described Senator Akpabio as an "Uncommon Transformer," whose illustrious career spans various capacities, including his service as a lawyer, Commissioner, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Minister of the Federal Republic, and now President of the Tenth Senate.

“Your Excellency, your life is a testament to God’s grace and a symbol of hope for many. From your revolutionary leadership in Akwa Ibom State, which redefined governance, to your national impact in fostering unity and development, you have proven to be an exceptional statesman,” the statement read.

The company highlighted Senator Akpabio’s numerous achievements in infrastructure, education, and human capital development, noting that his leadership continues to inspire progress across the nation.

Danesper Global Limited, known for delivering top-notch projects in road construction, bridges, flyovers, and schools, aligned its commitment to quality and excellence with Senator Akpabio’s vision for national transformation.

“As an organization dedicated to infrastructure development, we are proud to associate with your values of hard work, innovation, and dedication to service. Your leadership is a beacon that drives us to achieve even greater heights,” it added.

The company also prayed for God’s blessings upon Senator Akpabio, his wife, Unoma Akpabio, and their family, wishing him good health, long life, and continued success in his endeavours.

Danesper Global Limited reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote national development, in line with the ideals championed by the Senate President.

Ekpri Nsukara Offot Village Sends SOS To Gov Eno To Halt Forceful Acquisition Of Community’s School Land

 

...Decries Unlawful Demolition Of Community’s School Buildings

Ekpri Nsukara Offot Village in Uyo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State has sent a passionate appeal to the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno to halt the attempt by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Ministry of Lands and Water Resources to forcefully acquire the community's land where its only educational institution, the Ekpri Nsukara Offot International Schools (ENISCO) is built.

The SOS follows a dare-devil move on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 by persons believed to be officials of the state government, who came into the community with a Bulldozer and accompanied by men in police uniform, to pull down some parts of the school's perimeter fencing and adjoining buildings. 

Eteidung Emem Denis Asikpo

The incident which occurred during school hours at about 11:45am caused major uproar and almost degenerated to a violent clash with members of the community if not for the quick intervention of the Village head, Eteidung Emem Denis Asikpo and the Principal of ENISCO, Elder Domingo Bassey Etim, who doubles as the secretary to the Village council, as they calmed frayed nerves and ensured the officials were not attacked.

 

Speaking to newsmen in his Palace, the Village head of Ekpri Nsukara Offot Village, Eteidung Emem Denis Asikpo, described the demolition exercise as completely illegal, sad and barbaric as there was a subsisting Court case instituted by the Community against the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development; Ministry of Lands and Water Resources; Attorney General, Akwa Ibom State; and the Akwa Ibom State Government. 

Eteidung Asikpo recalled that on July 18, 2024, one Edem Esq. had visited him with a congratulatory letter from the Commissioner for Agriculture and thereafter informed him that where the community school is built has been marked down for use in depositing agricultural equipments. The unsavory information prompted him to demand for a formal letter to that effect but none was given. 

He added, "Again, on July 23, 2024 in the early morning, officials of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development came with soldiers in a Hilux  pickup and a caterpillar and started to excavate the land wherein the school is situated. When the scenario attracted the villagers to troop out to the scene, the officials and the soldiers sensing commotion halted the operation and fled from the scene. 

"As if not done, on August 5, 2024, some persons claiming to be officials from the Ministry of Lands and Water Resources came to paste notice on the walls and blocks of the building housing the school and on the fence which read, “REMOVE, GOVT LAND” threatening that they will, after 21 days, bring soldiers from Ibagwa and many caterpillars to demolish all the structures on the land for use and occupation by the State government."

Worried by the developments and the fact that there has been no official notification to acquire their land, neither have they received compensation or has government formally discussed the matter with them; the community felt that the officials involved were merely promoting their selfish interest and therefore decided to approach the Court through suit no. HU/306/2024 on August 9, 2024 for arbitration.  

The royal father lamented that the case has came up twice since it was filed at the State High Court but said that the defendants: the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development; Ministry of Lands and Water Resources; Attorney General, Akwa Ibom State; and the Akwa Ibom State Government have not made appearances or file statements of defence. 

According to him, it was therefore shocking that "government officials" could still show up again in the school on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 to carry out another round of illegal demolition in defiance to a pending court trial. 

Speaking on the ownership of the land, the Village head said that the five families of the community: Nung Essang; Nung Udo Akpakpan; Nung Abasi Imo; Nung Okpo and Nung Ukpong and the entire leadership of the village had unanimously resolved and donated the land measuring 4,321 hectares with survey plan number JEJ/AK/75576 for the commencement of Ekpri Nsukara Offot International Schools (ENISCO), which equally received the formally approval of the State Government through the Ministry of Education.

He explained that ENISCO, as a co-educational institution comprising Nursery/Primary and Secondary School, established in 2015 was necessitated by the fact that the community needed it to cater for the educational interest of their children and those of the neighbouring communities. 

So far, final year Students of the School have been participating successfully in the School Certificate examinations of the West African Examination Council (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO).

The village head recalled that in 2022, the State Government even rehabilitated some classroom blocks in the school and have them formally commissioned by the State Governor. 

“It is therefore baffling that the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development would rather prefer to terminate the existence of our precious school and use the land to keep agricultural equipments. 

“We don’t have another land to relocate the school. We are a thickly populated community and as a co-host of the permanent site of the University of Uyo (UNIUYO), which is situated along Nwaniba Road, within Uyo Capital City, we are almost a built-up area. 

“We therefore plead with our amiable Governor, Pastor Umo Eno to step into the whole matter and save the community's school from forceful extinction,” he lamented.

Fire Destroys 17 Shops in Ibadan Market

A devastating fire destroyed goods worth millions of naira on Monday, as it ravaged 17 shops at the Moniya market in the Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The blaze, which began around 12.30am, is believed to have been triggered by a power surge.

The PUNCH, on a visit to the scene, gathered that the fire caused significant damage, with valuable goods and cash destroyed.

The Babaloja of Moniya Garage, Kolawole Balogun, and Chairman of the Garage, Saliu Bello, told PUNCH Online that they were alerted by a security guard about the fire at around 12.30am.

Balogun said, “I rushed to the market as soon as I got the call. We lost multimillion-naira goods. The prompt arrival of the fire service prevented even greater devastation.

“In addition to the goods, cash in millions of naira was also destroyed. Many traders often store their money in their shops when they leave for the night.”

Several victims, including Yetunde Musa, Ajetunmobi Idowu, Olaide Badmus, Balogun Sulaimon, and Ajetunmobi Kolawole, called on the government to provide immediate support for those affected.

More details to follow…

Source: PUNCH NEWS

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Police Bust Child Trafficking Syndicate, Rescue Four Children in Rivers

 

The Rivers State Police Command has announced that its operatives have dismantled a child trafficking syndicate and rescued four children in the Rumukwachi Community near Port Harcourt.

The police also revealed that a suspect, Esther Anthony, and an alleged accomplice were arrested in connection with the trafficking.

The spokesperson for the command, Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed this in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Monday.

Iringe-Koko said the children, aged between one and 13 years, were lodged in a guest house, ready to be trafficked, before police intervened.

The statement reads, “The children, aged one to thirteen years, were lodged at Alaeze Guest House in Rumukwachi, Port Harcourt, and were intended to be handed over to a nurse named Loveth, who runs a maternity home.

“The managing director of the guest house became suspicious of Esther Anthony’s activities and refused to allow her to check out with the children, insisting that the mother be present. Esther Anthony left, only to return with police officers, falsely claiming that the guest house manager had abducted the children and threatened her with a gun.

“However, the managing director contacted the Choba Area Command, and officers arrived to arrest Anthony. Preliminary investigations revealed that Esther Anthony had conspired with a person named Favour to traffic the children from the Swali Community in Bayelsa State.

“Another suspect, Purity Silas, was also arrested in connection with the case. Notably, Esther Anthony was identified by another family as the same person who had previously stolen three of their children in the Rumuodara area of Port Harcourt and sold them to Loveth.”

The police chief added that the suspects had confessed to the crime and would soon be charged in court.

“All suspects have confessed to the crime. The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department, Port Harcourt, and the suspects are currently in police custody.

“They will be charged in court upon the completion of the investigation,” she added.

She also stated that the case highlights the ongoing efforts of the State Police Command to combat child trafficking and ensure justice for victims and their families.

“Meanwhile, the children have been reunited with their family members,” the state police spokesperson stated.

Source: PUNCH NEWS

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Nigeria Navy Intercepts Boat Carrying Illicit Substances, Arrests Suspects in Akwa Ibom

The Nigerian Navy said its troops of Operation Delta Sanity have intercepted and arrested 3 suspects conveying 125 bags of industrial chemicals, 820 tubes of pethidine, and 22,800 bottles of Codeine in a large wooden boat around Bendoyo and Uta Uyata general area, Akwa Ibom State.

This was contained in a statement on its verified Facebook page on Monday
The statement said, “On Monday 25 November 2024, Forward Operating Base IBAKA intercepted and arrested 3 suspects conveying 125 bags of industrial chemicals, 820 tubes of pethidine, and 22,800 bottles of Codeine in a large wooden boat around Bendoyo and Uta Uyata general area, Akwa Ibom State.
“Consequently, on Wednesday 27 November 2024, the suspects were handed over to personnel of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Maritime Unit, Oron, Akwa Ibom State.

Source: DAILY POST NIGERIA 

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Christmas Unplugged 2.0: GOV ENO ASSURES MAXIMUM SECURITY

 

•••Lauds Charles Udoh for Top-notch Package

As the Unity Park, Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo came alive on Sunday, December 1, with dazzling lights and infectious energy for the already trending Christmas Unplugged 2.0, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno has assured residents and visitors of maximum security throughout the 32-day event.

The State Chief Executive who gave the assurance while declaring the festival open,  commended the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh, for delivering what he described as a world-class package set to surpass last year’s edition.

TheHILL authoritatively reports that the venue for Christmas Unplugged 2.0, has already attracted thousands of individuals, couples, fun lovers from within and outside the state, as well as entrepreneurs. The programme, which will run until January 1, 2025, offers a unique blend of entertainment, culture, and culinary delights. Here's the revised version with careful attention to ensuring no errors: Packaged by the State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, this year's event has already showcased a vibrant lineup of performances, created economic opportunities for entrepreneurs to make sales and grow their businesses, while also celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Akwa Ibom.

Governor Eno, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, described Akwa Ibom as the "most peaceful state," urging residents to embrace the season’s message of love, peace, and goodwill. 

He said: “Christmas is about God, and this festival is an opportunity for us to unify and glorify Him through celebrations like this” 

The Governor encouraged SMEs and other vendors at the arena to seize the opportunity provided to either establish or expand their businesses, ensuring they gain valuable experience and maximize the platform to its fullest potential.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh, observed that Christmas Unplugged has redefined December celebrations in Akwa Ibom. He noted that last year’s edition had gained nationwide and global attention, showcasing Akwa Ibom as a hub for culture, tourism, and enterprise. The Culture and Tourism boss revealed that the 2.0 edition promises an unforgettable experience, boasting an expanded lineup that features celebrated performers like Bonkos Igwe, Timaya, Harrysong, and Fioky, alongside local talents set to captivate audiences on a globally streamed stage.

Sir Udoh disclosed that the event, beyond its entertainment value, has provided a platform for over 210 entrepreneurs and small businesses to showcase and expand their ventures, saying it aligns with the wealth creation drive of the Governor. He hinted partnerships with top brands, including Guinness Nigeria, Champion Breweries, and MTN, while assuring attendees of a secure and well-managed environment, courtesy of an aggressive security framework and advanced waste management systems.

The Commissioner announced that On December 13, the festival will momentarily pause for the 17th Akwa Ibom Christmas Carol Festival, a Guinness World Record-holding event featuring gospel heavyweights such as Moses Bliss, Steve Crown, and Buchi among several others.

In her vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mrs. Grace Akpan, praised Governor Umo Eno for his unwavering support, which she noted was pivotal in enhancing the festival's scope and impact from its inception to its current stage. She expressed confidence in the tireless efforts of the Commissioner, Sir Charles Udoh, assuring that he would deliver an exceptional package for the event.