AFCON QUALIFIERS: Hon. Iba Appeals To Nigerians To Support Super Eagles From Home

By Theophilus Udo

As the Super Eagles of Nigeria gear up for the 2021 African cup of Nations qualifiers against the leone Stars of Sierra Leone in Benin City on the 13 of this month at the Samuel  Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin. the South South boar member of the Nigeria football federation, Hon. Emmanuel Iba has appealed to football lovers to pray for the Nation and the supper Eagles.

Speaking exclusively with our sports Correspondent, Theophilus Udo,  in Uyo, Iba, said he was happy that the match will be played in the South South region but regretted that fans and lovers of the game would not be allowed access to the stadium to watch the super Eagles

Iba, while recalling his journey to the board of the Nigeria Football Federation, thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel and the commissioner of sports, sir Monday Ebong Uko for the support given to him as the state chairman of Football Association and said the only way to reciprocate the good gesture was for him to ensure that Akwa Ibom sons are appointed into various committees at the national and international football levels.

It would be recalled that the Ministry  of Youth  and Sports Development and the Presidential Task Force on Covid-19  had advised the Edo  State Government  and the  Nigerian  Football Federation  against  breaching the covid-19 protocol  by not allowing fans into the  Nations Cup game against  Sierra Leone.

Udun Uko Chairman Elect To Partner FEYREP ON Women, Youth Empowerment As AKISIEC Sets December 7 For Swearing In

By Ekemini Akpan

The Chairman Elect of Udung Uko Local Government Area in the just concluded local government polls, Mr Atanang Asuquo Osung has promised to run a women friendly administration.

Speaking with our correspondent in Uyo during the official presentation of certificate of return by AKISIEC at the Civil Service Auditorium, the newly elected chairman thanked God, his family and the entire people of Udung Uko; ascribing the victory to Udung Uko people.

 Osung who is an advocate of peace made it clear that his administration will ensure that the women of Udung Uko are not segregated. He stated that a unit will be created which will liaised with FEYREP to empower Udung Uko women.

Mr Atanang, hinted  that before the end of his tenure as chairman of Udung Uko, the local government will experience a new facelift in the area of infrastructural development and top in his priority list is the construction of a permanent road entrance to the local government council headquarters.

Osung also stressed on the need to ensure that Udung Uko youths are trained in various skills. While rolling out his plans for the youths,  he reiterated that Udung Uko youths will be trained so they can be updated with the current trends in the society.

"I will pull out the youths from the street by revamping the skill development centre to train our youths in entrepreneurship skills.

Trainings will also be done in the oil sector to prepare our youths for the oil boom that is coming to Udung Uko so they can fit in properly," Osung said.

Atanang thanked Udung Uko people for having faith and believing in him. He promised to ensure that Udung Uko becomes a destination at the end of his tenure

Meanwhile, the chairman, Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission, Mr. Aniedi Ikoewak says the commission has laide a solid foundation in the state where every 7 of December after three years will be swearing in of democratically elected council chairmen and councillors in Akwa Ibom state

Ikoewak, while speaking during the presentation of certificates of return to 31 newly elected chairmen and 367 elected councillors in Akwa Ibom state today at the Idongesite Nkanga secretariat, said all the results of the elections were declared at the unit and ward level to show the level of the commission's transparency in the elections.

The AKISEIC Chairman expressed believe that the next local government elections in Akwa Ibom will be highly compitative as the public now have confidence in the processes of the exercise.

Furthermore, he charged the newly elected officials at the third tier of government to be deligent in serving those who elected them in to office.

On his part, the commissioner for local government and chieftaincy Affairs, Him. Frank Archibong, tasked the elected local government leaders to contribute their quota to the well being of the people they are representing.

It would be recalled that elections was cancelled in ward eleven in Esit Eket local government area and will be conducted next Saturday.

LG Polls Adjudged Peaceful, Credible in Akwa Ibom, As Stakeholders Commends AKISIEC On Professionalism

 By Ekemini Akpan

Akwa Ibom State Local Government elections 2020 has been rated as one of the most peaceful and hitch free election in the State by political stalwarts, security personnel, and electorates in the state.

Speaking with our correspondent in Uyo during the elections, the member representing Uyo State Constituency, Hon. Anietie Eka expressed satisfaction on the peaceful conduct of the local government election.

Eka who is also the Chairman House Committee on Niger Delta in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly said in his unit at Obot Ibom, unit 009, Etoi 3, ward commended Akwa Ibom State Independent Election Commission (AKISIEC) for conducting credible elections and thanked the electorates for coming out enmassed to exercise their electoral franchise, adding that it has shown serious political participation among Akwa Ibom people.

Also expressing his view, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Projects Monitoring, Hon. Harrison Essien at ward 13, Oku 2, hinted that the elections was successful in his unit and maintained that  AKISIEC deserved to receive credit for the hitch free elections in the State. 

Voters at different polling unit monitored by Ibom Chronicle expressed satisfaction on the elections and hint that the outcome of the election will be acceptable by all the parties involved in the contest. 

They also thanked the executive in the state for not interfering in the elections processes by giving AKISIEC a fair ground to conduct the elections.

A'Ibom LG Service Commission Gets Legislative Backing

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has passed into law the Local Government Service Commission Law with a commencement date of August 13, 2020.

The State Assembly considered the   report of the Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs  on a bill to amend the law establishing the Akwa Ibom State Local Government Service Commission Law and for other matters connected therewith presented by the Chairman, Rt. Hon. Mark Esset on Thursday.

While deliberating on the bill, members contended on clause 5 which proposed that with the LG Commission's permission, LG Councils shall employ persons from Grade Levels 01-06 but such appointment must be ratified by the Commission. 

After heated deliberation, the House resolved that the Commission should ratify such appointments by Councils as permitted by the Commission.

However, at plenary, after due consideration of the report, the House adopted the 19 amendment Clauses and subsequently passed them into law.

Meanwhile, the House also ratified the report of the Public Accounts Committee on the audited accounts of the 31 LGAs in Akwa Ibom State as presented by the Chairman, Hon. (Dr.) Charity Ido.

In addition, the bill on Compulsory Treatment and Care for Sexual Violence Against Children passed through second reading and was committed to the joint committee on Women Affairs and Social Welfare; and Health for consideration and to report to the House within one month.

Furthermore, the Akwa Ibom State Fiscal Responsibility bill, 2020 passed through second reading and committed to the Committee on Appropriation and Finance to report to the House within one month.

Press Unit

Office of the Speaker,

Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.

Super Eagles Supporters Club Lauds NFF On Covid -19 Relief Fund

The National President of the Super Eagles Supporters Club Prince Vincent Okumagba has commended the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on including her supporters club as one of the beneficiaries of the Covid-19 Palliatives from FIFA, CAF and it's sponsors. 

Prince Okumagba thanked the Amaju Pinnick led NFF for remembering SESC in a time like this, it shows our unflinching support to the National team has not gone unnoticed. 

"The NFF has indeed shown great leadership and the love it has for football stakeholders in the country in the way they disbursed the Covid-19 Palliatives. 

The Super Eagles Supporters Club is very happy as the funds will go a long way to cushion the adverse economic impacts of this pandemic." 

He further promised to continue to support the NFF, National teams in all that they do and ensure that football development is taken to the next level. 

*SIGNED: MANAGEMENT*

A'Ibom Information Commissioner Visits NUJ, Pledges Partnership

By Mfon Hanson

The new commissioner for Information and Strategy, Akwa Ibom state, Hon (Barr) Ini Ememobong visited the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom state council and in a meeting with members of the State Executive Committee (SEC- Chairmen and Secretaries of Chapels). 

In his speech Ememobong who elaborated the functions of the media as purveyors of information, proposed for stronger collaboration and partnership with the media in Akwa Ibom state in order to move the state forward. 

"There is no need to destroy Akwa Ibom state out of anger, our state must be different because it was in the forefront of state creation, that is why development of Akwa Ibom state should be our watchword, the Governor cannot govern without the media because it is so strategic that the media can make life difficult for a strong leader. 

To this end I'm coming to the NUJ first before I enter my office to ask if you will accept me, let's work together in partnership and collaborate in the interest of Akwa Ibom state".

Hon Ememobong used the forum and proposed a forthcoming meetings at intervals in which the media in the state will chat with the leadership of Information in a soon to be announced date, the programme will be tagged "MEDIA OPEN DAY". 

He also announced the appointment of Comrade Imoh Etimudo, member of of NTA chapel of AK NUJ as the new Press Union Liason Officer. 

Comrade Etimudo's duty is to function as a bridge between the office of the Commissioner for Information and the Union in the state. 

The appointment takes immediate effect.

In his speech the Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Amos Etuk described the appointment of Barr Ini Ememobong as divine, he listed the achievement of the Union under his administration for the past one year and pledged the Union's readiness to work in partnership with the Commissioner preferably in an an atmosphere of free flow of information in the state. 

"Your appointment and posting is a clear testimony of the grace of God upon us as a Union especially as it coincides with the first year anniversary of this present leadership. 

Your appointment in this portfolio comes at a critical time in our global history with the challenge of the Covid 19 pandemic. As such your commitment to hit the ground running is strategic as we chart a new course for stronger information management aimed at the development of the state.

In the past one year we have worked as team leaders to change the narrative of developmental journalism positively in all our activities. 

We believe your proactive ideas will propel a stronger partnership in our growth in line with the expected policies of your administration. 

Hon Commissioner, we are extending our very firm hand of fellowship to you today, we want you to succeed because we believe in your capacity and be rest assured that we will remain trusted partners in driving your vision for the Ministry of Information and Strategy successfully".

See Full List And Portfolios Of A'Ibom State Executive Members

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, has reshuffled his cabinet with eight new entrants comprising seven Commissioners and a Special Adviser.

In the new dispensation, Professor. Eno James Ibanga, takes charge of the Ministry of Works; Mr. Frank Archibong, oversees the  Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs ; Prof. Augustine Vincent Umoh is the Commissioner for Health while Dr. Ini Adiakpan heads the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare.

Others are Mrs. Enobong Mbobo, Commissioner of Education; Barr. Ini Emembong Essien, Commissioner of Information and Strategy; Dr. Imo Moffat, Commisioner of Science and Technology , the only Special Adviser , Mr. Amanam Nkanga, heads Bureau of Political and Social Re-Orientation.

Administering Oath of Office to the newly appointed state Executive Council members at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo, Governor Emmanuel charged the appointees to be innovative and responsive to the dictates of the challenging times in which they have come to serve.

He emphasised that commitment towards service delivery should be their watch word and particularly expressed appreciation to the cabinet members who have been relived of their appointment as well as the serving members for their contributions towards the success of his administration.

"...we are poised, we are charged to deliver on all fronts, this is the era of creativity, ideas and imagination, you need to open your mind to see what you can do.

"You're coming at a very challenging time, post COVID-19 has changed  the world, so the way we do things and our thought process must also change, what will make a difference is prayers, pray to God to give you knowledge and wisdom not to fail the people, you must achieve a purpose and you must represent your people well", he admonished .

Governor Emmanuel urged the cabinet members to unravel programmes that will directly revitalised the economy especially investments in agriculture rather than dissipating energies on politiking and announced government intention to set up agro processing companies as soon as international routes are open .

"...we need to deliberately do something about our economy, please don't work towards destroying the economy, we must reorganise ourselves. This is the time we must try as much as we can  to encourage those who are into agriculture, we are working round the globe once they commence international flights we will try to bring agro-processing companies in", he stated .

The Governor sued for moral support for the new appointees, stressing that they should be complimented rather than criticising to enable them succeed in their endeavours. 

"we need your support, we need your prayers, everybody will have a role to play so give these people a chance, give them advice, you don't need to criticize them in the social media we have only one state no human is perfect, everyone survives on one another. Let your strength support the weakness of your brother in order for him to succeed", he advised .

Governor Emmanuel congratulated the new Vice Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) on his appointment and announced the appointment of the immediate past Commissioner for Health, Dr Dominic Ukpong, as Special Adviser on Health Matters.

The Governor also announced the Chairman of Esit Eket Local Government Council, Hon. Iniobong Robson as successor to Hon. Frank Archibong who, until his appointment into the state Executive council, was the Chairman, Association of Local Government Chairmen of Nigeria, ALGON .

Itina Sends Emotional Farewell Message To Paul Ekpo, Pledges Hard Work With Ekpenyong

The Publicity  Secretary, Forum of PDP Chapter Chairmen, Akwa Ibom State and Chapter chairman, Etinan Local Government Area, RT. Hon. Inemesit Itina has send an emotional farewell message to the out gone state chairman of the people democratic party, Obong Paul Ekpo.

In a release made available to our political correspondent, Theophilus Udo, Itina also congratulate the new state chairman of the party, Hon. Udo Ekpenyong, for emerging victoriously in yesterday state Congress after scoring 3840 votes.

The Etinan chapter chairman cum state publicity secretary of chapter chairmen pledged to continue to work with the new leadership of the party in the state to ensure the party continue to deliver good governance to Akwa Ibom people.

Below is the full message

FAREWELL TO OUR OUTGOING STATE CHAIRMAN, OBONG PAUL EKPO AND OCONGRATULATIONS TO OUR STATE CHAIRMAN ELECT OBONG HON  UDO EKPENYONG.

Today, July 30, 2020, history has been made as the State Chairman of our Party, Obong Paul Ekpo honourably bows out following the expiration of his tenure thereby making room for the election of Obong Hon. Udo Ekpenyong as the new PDP State Chairman.

Therefore, on behalf of Forum of PDP Chapter Chairmen, Akwa Ibom State, comprising the 31 Chapter chairmen, I write to convey our sincere appreciation to the outgoing State Chairman, Obong Paul Ekpo for his enormous contributions to the growth of PDP in AKS. We say farewell Sir and may the good Lord reward you accordingly.

To the Chairman elect, Obong Hon. Udo Ekpenyong,  we join thousands of your loved ones to celebrate your emergence at the just concluded Peoples Democratic Party State Congress held at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

Sir, your victory is a well deserved one having scored a total of 3840 votes to be declared the winner.

We pray for God's divine direction as you take up this mantle to run the affairs of this great Party.

Once again congratulations. Please be assured of our undivided support.

RT. HON INEMESIT ITINA

Pub. Secretary, Forum of PDP Chapter Chairmen, Akwa Ibom State and Chapter chairman, Etinan Local Government Area.

Adherence To Zoning Is Key To Peaceful LG Elections - AKHA Speaker

The Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Bassey, has charged the people of Uruan Local Government Area to adhere to zoning and shun vices that will affect peace and unity of the area in the forthcoming Local Government Council Chairmanship elections.

Rt. Hon. Bassey, who also represents Uruan State Constituency in the State House of Assembly, made this known during a stakeholders’ meeting on Sunday in Uyo at the residence of Uruan Political Leader, Chief Peter Ekpe-Atakpo.

According to the Speaker, it will be equitable and fair for political offices in the area to be zoned to its four Clans for harmony and peaceful coexistence.

While appreciating stakeholders of the area for their show of love and solidarity, Rt. Hon. Bassey also sued for inclusiveness of all the zones in the area’s political sharing formula.

In his remarks, Chairman of Akwa Ibom State Road Maintenance and other Infrastructure Agency, Prince Godwin Ntukudeh, said “Stakeholders are compelled by truth and fairness to uphold the decision on the zoning arrangement in Uruan.”

Prince Ntukudeh, who frowned at the attempt by some persons to thwart Uruan zoning arrangement, added that the gesture must be reciprocated to every zones and political bloc in the area, saying “this will make us have a peaceful elections in Uruan.”

Earlier in his remarks, the host and Political Leader of Uruan, Chief Ekpe-Atakpo, maintained that the established zoning and rotation arrangement for political positions in Uruan should be kept for peace and equity.

Chief Ekpe-Atakpo further supported the stakeholders’ position on the zoning of Local Government Chairmanship seat for sustainable peace in the area.

Speaking, the Zonal Leader of Northern Uruan, Engr. Offiong Akpabio, who started by reminding the stakeholders of the stance of Uruan Elders Forum during the regime of Late Gen. Akan that political offices should be shared among the four zones of Uruan for equity, fairness and justice, disassociated himself from the recent communiqué by the Elders of North-Central Uruan against the Office of the Speaker.

He apologized to Speaker on behalf of the people of North-Central and called on the stakeholders to support zoning and political inclusiveness, as ordered by Governor Udom, peace and equity.

Also speaking, the Zonal Leader of South-South Uruan, Obong Augustine Effiong, who supported the position of Engr. Akpabio, said “the  four Clans of Uruan were not created for palliatives and administrative convenient as speculated in the communiqué presented by the North-Central,” stressing that sharing of political offices were based on the North-Central and Southern mega zones.

Obong Effiong said that there was injustice perpetuated by a section of Uruan and there was need to address the injustice by creating the four political zones for equity and fairness.

"We love peace and we need our brothers but not to the detriment of one particular zone," he said.

Also in attendance at the meeting were the Chairman of Akwa Ibom Internal Revenue Service, Obong Okon Okon; the Chairman of Uruan Local Government Council, Hon. Henry Udofia; the Zonal Leader of Central Uruan, Engr J. B. Effiong; the Zonal Leader of South-East Uruan, Obong Kingsley Orok; the Zonal Leader of North, Obong Bassey Mbom; all the Ward Leaders; Councillors; Supervisors among others.

A'Ibom SWAN Commends Gov Emmanuel On Support, Pledges Partnership On Sports Development

By Deborah Ekanem

The  Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has continued to receive commendations for sports development in Akwa Ibom state and the role he played on a successful thanksgiving service of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, held on the 26th of July, 2020 at the Apostolic Church, Four Towns, Uyo.

This was contained in a Communique issued at the end of the Association's July Congress at the Nigerian Union of Journalists Secretariat, Uyo on Friday, 24th July, 2020.

The Communique jointly signed by the Chairman of the Communique drafting Committee, Sammy Etuk and the Secretary of the Association, Theophilus Udoh applauded the governor and other Sport enthusiasts for Sports development in the State and vowed to be a worthy partner in the process of sports in the state.
Also, the Congress charged members of the Association to be more proactive in reporting Sports activities  as a major ingredient that could aid the repositioning of Sports in Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria at large and as well sustain their membership in the association.

Further more, the Congress sued for retraining of her members through capacity building programmes, solicited for sponsorship in  making the project a reality.

However, members of the Association commended her State Chairman, Emmanuel Akpan on his on his dynamic leadership style and unity so far enjoyed since his emergence as the state chairman.

Stakeholders Pour Encomiums On Akwa Ibom FA Chairman Over Rain Of Palliatives

 Following the ravaging effect of coronavirus that has put a lot of persons to be in need, the Akwa Ibom State Football Association has given out palliatives to all Football stakeholders in the State with millions of naira to aid them in this trying time.

Some of the stakeholders that benefited from the historic gesture of the leadership of Football Association headed by Hon. Emmanuel Iba, are Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, all the 31 Local Council of Football Association, over 50 amateur Football clubs in Akwa Ibom who are affiliated to the state football association, past chairmen of Football association in the State, Akwa Ibom State referees council, Stadium steward, Uta farm Supporters Club, Akwa United Supporters Club, staff of the Football Association, Ball Boys, All Stars International, Great Football Family, Last election committee of the association, Football Coaches Association and all occupants of the Uyo Township Stadium amongst others.

Addressing representatives of all the respective group of stakeholders in Uyo the capital of Akwa Ibom State, the State Chairman of Football Association who double as the South South board representative in the Nigeria Football Federation, Hon Emmanuel Iba, hinted that the palliative was given to representatives of the groups for onward distribution to their members so as to maintain social distancing and stick to the guidelines from World health organization and the Nigeria centre for disease control (NCDC) on the fight against coronavirus.

Iba, while appreciating lovers and promoters of Football like Vandrezzer Energy, sponsors of Vandrezzer football club who thought it wise to come to the aid of the association in this trying times, said the football association in the states were yet to get  any palliative from the federation and as such, appeals to well meaning individuals to borrow the kind gesture of vandrezzer by supporting the Football Association.

On the 2020 State Aiteo Cup which participating clubs had registered, Emmanuel Iba, urged the clubs not to panic over the cancellation of the fiesta for this year as his board has taken a stand by fast forwarding their registration to 2021 in which the clubs will only come out and play without registering again.

Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Elder Enobong Etukudoh; former Football Association Chairman, Mr. Isong Ntuen; All Stars International, Elder Smith Sunday; FA Local Government Council Chairman for Nsit Ibom, Evang. Theophilus Udo; State Secretary of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, Coach Morgan Macito; President of grassroot coaches association, all thanked Hon. Emmanuel Iba, led FA for putting smiles on the faces of all Football stakeholders in Akwa Ibom State in this challenging times and for  being transparent in his leadership.

Stating that since the  emergence of Hon. Iba as the state FA Chairman, football development has witness tremendous achievements, the respondents prayed for more successes for Hon. Emmanuel Iba.

Notorious Ponzi Scheme Operator Arrested in Uyo

The operator of a grand Ponzi Scheme:  “No Burn Global Limited”,  Umanah  Umanah,  has  been arrested by operatives of the Uyo Zonal Office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,  EFCC.

He was arrested  recently in a hotel located at the Osongoma area of Uyo, Akwa Ibom state,  following a petition sent to the Commission  by  Joseph E. Uko, who alleged that Umanah swindled him of over N2.9million (Two Million, Nine Hundred Thousand Naira) and subsequently issued him a cheque for N500,000(Five Hundred Thousand Naira only) that was never honoured as the account in question was not funded to cover the sum for which the cheque was issued.

According to the petitioner, after several months of expecting to receive his 50% returns on investment, without any success,  he decided to get back his invested funds.  But all efforts made by him to get back his money proved abortive as Umanah deserted his office located at Plot 110-Unit D,  Ewet Housing Estate, Uyo,, and went into hiding until operatives of the Commission smoked him out.

Before his arrest,  Umanah, 62, allegedly lures people to invest in his company,  by assuring them of a bogus 50% interest within one week.  He allegedly operated smoothly in a number of states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), but denied any knowledge of the petitioner  and the evidence of his allegations against him.

While being interrogated,  Umanah said:  "I am the Chief Executive Officer of No Burn Global Limited. The company is a consultancy and entrepreneurship service provider. It provides information and stimulates ideas. I was shocked to see the cheque as a source of a petition against me. It is my handwriting on the cheque. But I have never met Joseph Ukoh Eboh before in my life".

However, investigation into the matter revealed that Umanah is the leader of a syndicate  of advance fee fraudsters , who had  operated in various states like Rivers, Bayelsa, Cross River and Abuja amongst others. He was also reported to be operating along the West Coast,  especially Ghana and Togo.

The suspect  will soon  be charged to court.

Umbrella Civil Society Group Commends Gov Emmanuel On Composition Of Public Procurement Council

By Ememobong Okon

An umbrella body for Civil Society Organizations in the State, Akwa Ibom State Civil Society Organizations forum, has expressed appreciation to the State Governor, Deacon Udom Emmanuel, for the recent appointment of one of their members, Mr. Harry Udoh, as a member of the Akwa Ibom State Public Procurement Council.

In a press statement issued by the group's head of media and publicity, Mr. Kingsley Atang and made available to newsmen on Monday, the group described the appointment of Mr. Udoh as deliberate, noting that the inclusion of civil society representation in the council, demonstrates strong political will to replace corruption, opacity and inefficiency with a regime of openness, especially in the area of public contacting.

"we are confident that Akwa Ibom State has just taken one of the fist steps towards joining the league of jurisdictions across the globe that are embracing open contracting for more efficient and effective public service delivery.

"Oftentimes, dearth of financial resources and political interference have been known to hamper the work of otherwise well-intentioned government initiatives.

"we therefore call on the State government to provide the council with the institutional resources and political space to fulfill its mandate.

"once again, we salute the Akwa Ibom State Government for its goodwill and ongoing partnership with Civil Society and affirm the forum's commitment to work with government to achieve the stipulated objectives of the Akwa Ibom State public procurement law 2019." the statement read.

It would be recalled that last week, Governor Emmanuel inuagugurated the Akwa Ibom State Public Procurement Council, with Mr. Harry Udoh, as the representative of civil society groups in the State.

Mr. Harry, a development expert with about 30 years cognate experience, has been in the forefront of advocating for  meaningful development of the State and the nation at large.

In an interaction with our reporter, Mr. Udoh, while appreciating the State Governor for the appointment, said, "With His Excellency, Udom Emmanuel's assent to the Public Procurement law and the prompt inauguration of the Public Procurement Council, the governor has laid the bulwark for transparency, accountability and good governance in the state.

" This also indicates the good intent of government for proper management of the state's resources. "

Hon. Anthony Etim Advocates Steadfastness in Hosting Akwa Ibom Youth Sports Festival

The Akwa Ibom State Weightlifting Association chairman, Pastor Antony Etim has advocated for the persistent hosting of the Akwa Ibom State Youths Sports Festival, saying that the festival has  immensely resulted in the discovery of talents  in various sports.

Etim who also doubles as the local government chairman of Oron made the advocacy while interacting with the state exercutive members of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) led by Comrade Emmanuel Akpan, in Uyo.

Pastor Etim who is a  former, footballer, Javelin thrower and a weightlifter explained that the advent of the Akwa Ibom Youth Sports Festival brought about the discovery of young talents like Edidiong in weightlifting, Imaobong in track, Idara in Boxing amongst others who could have been found wanting in the streets without knowing the potentials in them.

He appreciated Governor Udom Emmanuel for  according  sports   and youth  development  a priority in his administration and extolled the governor for affording him and other  members of the association   the opportunity to serve on board and contribute to the development of sports in the state.

While hinting that the  State Weightlifting Association is  determined to make the state proud in the sports at all levels, he said so far,  the state lifters have won 49 gold, 20 silver and 29 bronze medals in the National Sports Festivals, while in the  National Youth Sports Festival, Akwa Ibom did not take the rare as it  clinched 12 gold 11 silver and 12 bronze medals as well.

The chairman mentioned some of the weightlifters which helped the state to scoop the  laurels at  competitions to include: Edidiong Umofia, Uwana Peter,Namsifon Ekanem, Theresa Okon amongst others, whom he believed will go ahead to represent Nigeria in Olympic  having excelled in Africa and International championships.

He hinted that soon after the association was inaugurated a meeting of the board was convenned followed with a visit to the Uyo Township Stadium to assess facilities for training of weightlifters, adding that for positive results in the game it was pertinent to have a  standard training facility which he provided one of the best weightlifting platforms for the athletes training.

The chairman listed other attainments of the association to include: organizing a reception for weightlifters who participated at the Jigawa  State Weightlifting Competition and preparation of weightlifters for the postponed Edo National Sports Festival.

He also said that arrangement  was made to stage Oro Nation Youth  Weightlifting Tournament but was postponed due to the emergence of Coronavirus Disease , which according to him will still hold after the pandemic.

 According to him, the Association of Local Government of Nigeria ( ALGON) was  desirous to present youths from the 31 local government areas for weightlifting competition so as to harness talents in the sport.

Etim,  expressed readiness of the association to partner SWAN towards the  development of Weightlifting in the  state.

It would be recalled that the Akwa Ibom state youth sports festival held only twice with the third edition failing to hold in 2019, no thanks to political activities of 2019 in the state.

Meet Aminu Kurfi Balele : The Game Changer Who Is Leaving Footprints In The Sand Of Time

The story of Nigeria football cannot be complete without a mention of Alhaji Aminu kurfi Balele, the fast rising football administrator whose records on and off the pitch is gradually dwarfing the achievements of many who have spent over two decades in the corridors of football with virtually nothing to show for it.

As senior special adviser to the former executive governor of Katsina state Alhaji Aminu Bello Masari, Balele who was also a former chairman of Katsina united, is the brain behind the rising profile of Katsina United as one of the emerging super powers of Nigeria football

His deep administrative manoeuvrings around the football circle helped to lift the Changi boys from their comfort zone in the NNL to the Nigeria professional football league, NPFL, after they finished as league leaders in the 2016 season before going on to win the NNL Super 4 competition, a result that catapulted them to the Apex league in the country.

Known for his forthrightness, admired for his doggedness and respected for his resilience, Dan Arewa as he is fondly called by his admirers is gradually winning souls from all sectors of the sporting fraternity. Many remember with excitement, the role he played in turning Katsina United into a brand that is now talked about, not only in Nigeria but in the whole of Africa.

He was the brain behind the quick completion of the Muhammadu Dikko stadium in Katsina state and used his influence to get the Golden Eaglets camped in Katsina on their way to winning the 2015 FIFA Under 17 World Cup in Chile.

That in itself, was a landmark achievement that will remain indelible in the hearts of the good people of Katsina state for years to come.

This easy going and very unassuming administrator, guided the Under-15 team of Katsina United to back to back finals of the LMC/NPFL Under-15 features and was also on hand to guide Katsina feeders to the quarter final of the AITEO Cup. All these achievements came without anyone blowing his trumpet.

In 2018, Aminu Kurfi once again applied his administrative ingenuity by single handedly convincing the executive governor of Katsina state, his excellency, Aminu Bello Masari to host the NFF Extraordinary congress.

This happened at a time when Nigeria football was groaning in the mud of crisis and uncertainty.

Katsina state government hosted over five hundred football stakeholders, among them, 44 delegates, in what turned out the best organised NFF Election ever held in the history of Association football in Nigeria.

This was the first time in the history of NFF elections that the winners and losers shook hands in agreement that the process was indeed very free and fair.

Despite his goodwill, this man has his few regrets as the NFF have failed to fulfil two key promises made to the Katsina state government on the eve of the 2018 election.

Firstly, they promised to build the first FA secretariate in the Katsina state capital and secondly, they made a special promise to the emir of Daura, Faruk Umar Faruk, that they will bring one of the FIFA Goal projects assigned to Nigeria, to the home of president Mohammadu Buhari.

 Both promises have not been met till date as there are no assurances of any sort from the eggheads in the football house.

Balele is not deterred by these setbacks, as he has continued to contribute his quota to the development of football in the state and Nigeria in general.

Voted Katsina state FA chairman in 2019, this erodite and immensely intelligent politician who is well respected by the government and people of Katsina state for his rising profile as a key stakeholder in Nigeria football, was at the forefront of Nigeria's participation at the 2018 World Cup in Russia where he helped Nigeria football federation officials and fans to sort out important logistics before and during the competition.

He also singlehandedly secured Max Airline for the NFF to help airlift the Super Eagles of Nigeria to Sfax for a crucial world cup qualifier with Libya in October 2018,  and later Maseru for the return leg of a double header with Lesotho just last year.

He is the peace maker, a man who has continued to preach peace among football stakeholders. His philanthropic hand has touched the young and old in all the villages and towns of Katsina state and environs. He has touched lives and has not stopped doing his best in helping humanity.

 Loved by the media, appreciated by the footballers, respected by club owners and other stakeholders and adored by the fans, Aminu Kurfi will always be remembered as the man who discovered the jewel or Katsina United, the pride of the Changi boys and a player that all football lovers in the state will love to call their beloved, he is Destiny Ashadi or better still, the Katsina Diamond.

I'm Not Aware Of 50 UUTH Staff Waiting Covid-19 Test - A'Ibom Healy Commissioner

Five Covid19 positive patients including a nursing mother have been given a clean bill of health and discharged in Uyo, Tuesday after being confirmed negative to the dreaded virus by the Nigerian Center for Diseases Control, NCDC.

Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Dominic Ukpong who made the disclosure while addressing newsmen at the Ibom Specialist Hospital shortly after their discharge said one of the discharged survivors was a medical worker with the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital.

Flanked by the Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Prof. Emmanuel Ekanem and Dr. Martins Akpan of the Primary HealthCare Development Agency, Dr. Ukpong explained that the nursing mother had to be given special treatment at home since she had a 7months baby and two infants ages two and three respectively in her care.

“I commend Governor Emmanuel for putting in place a means through which we were able to administer medical care to that woman because there was no way we could have brought her and three children into this facility, since none of the children had tested positive.

“Her samples have now come out negative and she has also been discharged along with the other four cases”

On the reported case of 50 medical workers awaiting testing at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Dr Ukpong maintained that, “I am not aware of such number of people lining up for testing at UUTH.

“The one we have actually profiled and met the criteria for testing was among those discharged today, a staff of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital".

“Yesterday (Monday) I was at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital to commission an isolation ward”, he stated, adding that, he has frequent interactions with the Chief Medical Director of the Teaching Hospital and any such development had not been brought before him.

On contact tracing, the Commissioner disclosed that the state has so far done 458 contact tracing, indicating about 99.1% attainment as acknowledged by NCDC.
Fielding questions from reporters on some of the concerns raised on the testing modalities and other issues, Dr. Ukpong stated "Scientifically, there are criteria for Covid19 testing, and we follow the criteria as set out by NCDC.

He said the Governor Emmanuel has performed very well in the fight against the disease, especially judging from the huge number of the index cases and the gradual decline in the numbers, but urged Akwa Ibom people to continue observing the laid down precautionary measures in order to check the spread of disease in the state.

Also speaking, the CMD of Ibom Specialist Hospital, Prof. Emmanuel Ekanem commended the facilities and response strategy provided by the Akwa Ibom State government in preventing the spread of Covid19 pandemic in the state, and maintained that the hospital management was very satisfied with the sincerity of the government.

President Buhari Appoints New Chief Of Staff State

President Muhammadu Buhari today appointed a new Chief of Staff in the person of Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari following the demise of the former CoS, Mallam Abba Kyari.

Prof. Gambari, CFR who was born on November 24, 1944 and hails from Kwara State is the former Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations for the Department of Political Affairs (DPA).

He attended King’s College, Lagos. Proceeded to London School of Economics where he obtained his B. Sc. (Economics) degree (1968) with specialty in International Relations.

He later obtained his M.A. (1970) and Ph. D. (1974) degrees from Columbia University, New York, USA in Political Science /International Relations.

The Ilorin prince and uncle to the present Emir of Ilorin is a revered scholar and diplomat who has garnered experience and held high profile positions.

Following his track records in leadership, the former governor of Kwara State, AbdulFatah Ahmad on March 4, 2013 named him the pioneer Chancellor of the Kwara State University.

Also, he was the Minister for External Affairs between 1984 and 1985.
Although the appointment of Gambari is yet to be made official by Presidency but sources say he was picked after a rigourous selection process by the Presidency.

He is to resume work on Wednesday after meeting with President Buhari earlier today at the State house according to report.
Congratulations Sir!

Executive Pardon : Sixty Eight Inmates Regains Freedom In Akwa Ibom

Inline with president Muhammadu Buhari's directive for all the states within the federation to released inmates that made certain conditions, the Akwa Ibom authorities has granted pardon to sixty eight (68) inmates within the custody of the Nigerian correctional service in Akwa Ibom State.

Our correspondent report that a cross sectional view of the pardoned inmates were both old and young men.

Investigations revealed that a number of these pardoned persons might not have been guilty, but because of lack of evidence of defense, they were convicted.

Of the sixty eight freed inmati, 20 were from the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Uyo, 17 from Ikot Ekpene Centre, 17 from Eket Centre and 12 from Ikot Abasi Correctional Centre.

Governor Emmanuel who was represented by the Attorney General And Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Uwemedimo Nwoko advised the inmates to be of fine behaviour and shun acts that will take them back to prison as they will not have a second chance should they find themselves within the act of criminality.

The Governor said the freed inmates were those that had spent years within the Correctional Centres and had developed serious health issues.

Also considered were inmates on grounds of old age while those with minor offense were equally considered.

Inmates with capital offences like terrorism, stickup and kidnapping were declined pardon.

The Controller of Corrections Mr Alex Oditah, on behalf of the Controller General of Corrections Ja’afaru Ahmed, thanked the Akwa Ibom State Governor for having mercy upon the inmates, noting that their release would prevent the spread of COVID-19 and decongest the prison.

The freed inmates thanked Governor Emmanuel for the chance to reunite with their families, expressing confidence that the abilities and knowledge garnered in their different Correctional Centres will make them usefulness to the society.
The sixty eight inmates that regained freedom weren't allowed to interact with our correspondent for fear of the deadly Corona virus currently ravaging the society while the inmates prayed for the virus to be over and feel alive being free.

Coronavirus: 3 Discharged In Akwa Ibom State Today

It was fanfare and excitement in Uyo the Akwa Ibom State Capital, as three more COVID-19 patients were discharged from the isolation facilities after their status had been confirmed negative by the Nigerian Center of Disease Control, NCDC.

Two of the three discharged persons Ememobong Gabriel Udofa a pharmacist and Dr. Otobong Asuquo walked out of the Ibom Specialist Clinic to the joy of all present, in company of the State Commissioner for Health Dr. Dominic Ukpong, the State Epidemiologist Dr. Ntiense Umoette and a Respiratory Surgeon Prof Etette Peters.

Speaking to reporters, Ememobong Udoakpan said at first he was scared but that he got inspired to brace up, from the State COVID 19 medical team as well as from victims who recovered from the attack and were shown on the social media.

“The treatment here has been topnotch. There is a difference between how I came in here and how I am today. I was well taken care of and I commend  Governor Udom Emmanuel for his proactive stance against the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic and the medical team led by the Commissioner for Health, for the facilities put in place here. It helped in my speedy recovery.”

Mr. Udofa one of the first five index cases in the state, said his symptoms started a week after the foreign based medical mission departed the state on March 13, when he started developing symptoms like headache, before losing his sense of taste and smell.

“It was on the 23rd of March that it dawn on me that I had symptoms of the COVID 19, my brother who is an ENT Surgeon told me it was COVID 19, I boiled chicken and I could not perceived its aroma and could sense any taste, and that was when I suspected that I may have contacted the disease.”

Also speaking, Dr. Asuquo said he knew the symptoms of the virus and had to isolate himself for 10 days while reaching out to the state medical team to come to his aid.

He said he was happy to be discharged and assured that he was going to remain resolute in carrying out his responsibility of saving live

s as a medical doctor.

He urged members of the public against ignoring the warnings on the dangers of the virus, as it was very contagious and dangerous.
Confirming the discharge of the three persons, the State Commissioner for Health Dr Dominic Ukpong said that the state was not going to relent in ensuring that COVID 19 is minimized and contained.

He said that work on the Grade Four laboratories to help in the testing of the Coronavirus is at advanced stage, maintaining that one would be sited in Uyo and the other one at the nearly completed Isolation Facility in  Ituk Mbang, Uruan.

The discharge has brought to six, the total number of COVID 19 patients, discharged from the state isolation facility. It will be recalled that the NCDC recently scored the state 99 percent in contact- tracing, a critical element in the fight against the spread of the pandemic.

30 Test Negative Of Corona Virus In Akwa Ibom

Akwa Ibom State  has recorded as high as 30 negative test result from the 31 COVID-19 case samples sent out in the last badge of cases.

The State Commissioner of Heaith, Dr. Dominic Ukpong disclosed this in Uyo today, while presenting an update on the number of COVID-19 cases currently in the state.

'"In the last badge, we sent a total of 31 samples to the NCDC for testing. As at today, Saturday, April 25, 2020, 30 results have returned negative, with only one positive case", he stated.

According to Dr. Ukpong, the only positive case is that of a visitor to the state, who came in during the lockdown.

The Commissioner of Health who reiterated that, the one tested positive case, has been carefully isolated added that, despite his minimal contacts with residents of the state, full contact tracing has already begun.

So far, the earlier positive cases in the state are in good health, awaiting re-confirmation tests.

He observed that, the lockdown is apparently yielding good results in curtailing the spread of the global pandemic.

Everyone is enjoined to continue maintaining social distancing and other safety procedures, and also rely on the rapid emergency response phone numbers provided by the State Government or the nearest health facility, to report any suspected case for urgent attention.

AKSG Gives Reasons Lockdown Continues Till Monday 27April

The Akwa Ibom state government has extended the lockdown in the state to Monday April 25,2020.

This the government explained is due the successes recorded in the fight against coronavirus in Akwa Ibom.

Here is a press statement by the Chairman of the state's Taskforce on Covid-19, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem:

Gentlemen of the press, it is my pleasure to once again bring you up to speed in our collective fight against COVID-19, the present pandemic that has kept the entire global community on its toes over the last few months. As an integral part of the global community, Akwa Ibom state has felt, directly and indirectly the socio-economic impact of the pandemic.

To this end, our dear Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has been on top of the situation, providing leadership and giving directions in the fight to mitigate the spread and effects of the novel Coronavirus on the generality of our people.

While we are witnessing very pathetic and astronomic rise in the number of cases of Coronavirus infection in different parts of the world, and even in some parts of our country, the situation in Akwa Ibom has, providentially been minimal. For this, we are grateful to God.

The low incidence level of Coronavirus has not been without efforts and pragmatic inputs from the leadership of the state. The Governor, working with the COVID-19 Management Committee, the Incidence Management Committee, health workers and other stakeholders, has deployed resources, financial and material to ensure the pandemic is kept at bay for as much as possible.

So far, only 9 cases have been confirmed in our state. Thankfully, we have had three reversed to negative and have been discharged. Although we still have five active cases and one dead, the sincerity of our government in the fight against the pandemic as not gone on noticed by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control. In a recent publication by the national body, our contact-tracing scored 99%. Within a short period of time, the state government has a fully kitted Emergency Operation Centre, which comprises Call Centre, Situation Room and Isolation Centre at the Ibom Specialty Hospital.

The three reversed cases of Coronavirus are evidenced of the quality of healthcare available in our isolation centres. From the testimonies of the survivors, who were full of praises and prayers for the governor, the isolation environments were very comforting while they sojourned therein.

Gentlemen, let me reiterate that the fight against the pandemic is akin to a war situation, where there is no room for jokes. Our experience at the Call Centre of the Emergency Operation Centre is that a few citizens have continued to make unnecessary calls, thereby obstructing genuine calls waiting to come in. Citizens should learn to direct calls not related to COVID-19 to appropriate quarters other than the call centre.

Although, our isolation centres in Ikot Ekpene and at the Ibom Specialty Hospital are in top shape to accommodate any eventualities, the administration has intensified efforts at completing the 300-bed isolation centre at the General Hospital, Ituk Mbang. A few days back, our dear Governor visited the site to assess the level of work done so far. I am happy to let you know that the facility will soon be ready for use with state-of-the-art medical facilities.

My friends in the journalism profession, many people are not aware of the huge resources the administration is expending to keep our state free of Coronavirus and other diseases. Over the last two weeks, we have embarked on the de-contamination of major towns and cities across the three Senatorial Districts of our state. Though the exercise has cost the state so much money, yet it has been worthwhile.

As the first responders to the Covid-19 pandemic, we implore our healthcare professionals to do all they can, to protect themselves. We have followed with deep concern, the spate of self-care and administration of drugs by some of our Physicians which has led to unpleasant consequences. We wish to advise our healthcare professionals to avail themselves of the facilities provided by government to handle the Covid-19 pandemic and other medical challenges. Waiting until conditions are medically irredeemable, even if such has no connections to Covid-19, as has been the case in some situations should be discouraged. 

You are aware that our people have benefitted from the palliatives that emanated from kind-heartedness of our dear Governor. Apart from reaching out to the over 3,000 villages in Akwa Ibom State with assorted food items like garri, rice, beans and flour, efforts have also been made to reach non-indigenes residing in the state. This was done in the spirit of love, with the understanding and good neighbourliness.

Let me use this opportunity to address a few issues that arose from the distribution of the palliatives. Although the food items were meant to ameliorate the hardship of the most vulnerable among us, a number of citizens who never needed such queued up to partake, resulting in mixed reactions. While those who really needed the items and actually got them and were appreciative of the good gesture of the Governor who was kind enough to remember them at a time like this, those who did not need the items but received them for whatever reasons, took to the social media to cast aspersions on the administration. May I therefore advise that anyone who is able to provide for himself and family at such time as this, should for the sake of humanity steer clear of such items, so that those who truly need the items can have more to themselves.

The pandemic has altered the academic programmes of various academic institutions around the world. This has necessitated the development of new initiatives to ensure that not much is lost by pupils and students. On our part as a government, we have also initiated a novel idea, SCHOOL ON RADIO, to help our students prepare for their final examinations in the junior and senior secondary schools.

Gentlemen of the Press, in view of the critical situation that we are in as a nation and as a state, although it would have been desirable to call off the lockdown at this juncture, but given that we must ensure continuous safety of our citizens, the most ideal thing for now is to continue with the lockdown until Monday, April 27, 2020 where we will provide an update on the lockdown at a press briefing.

To this end, everyone is advised to continue to cooperate with the government and the security agencies in the bid to curb community spreading of the virus.

Thank you for listening.

Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem
Secretary to the State Government
/Chairman COVID-19 Management Committee
Akwa Ibom State

23rd April 2020