IKONO COUNCIL BOSS EMPOWERS HIS PERSONAL AIDE

...declares shop opened in Uyo, commends Aide on dedication, gratitude


By Mberekkeobong Essien

In a bid to discourage corporate begging and reduce unemployment to its barest minimum, the Chairman of Ikono Local Government Council, Hon. Itoro Columba has officially commissioned a business outlet for one of his Personal Assistants, Mr Essien Lawrence.

Speaking briefly during the shop opening ceremony, Hon. Columba, said it has always been his desire to change the usual narrative by applying a different approach to empowerment in tune with the Dakkada Philosophy of His Excellency, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Deacon Udom Emmanuel.

Accompanied by his wife, Mrs Ekaette Columba, the chairman said, his aide had proven himself to be responsible in the discharge of his assigned tasks and one with an uncommon spirit of gratitude, hence the empowerment, as doing so would provide another source of income to enable him raise his children.

While describing Essien as one with a heart of gratitude, he unleashed blessings upon the business to mark the beginning of better days ahead, asserting that the business shall forever flourish.

"I'm a big fan of gratitude. For showing gratitude in the little, this shop shall blossom to become a supermarket with multiple outlets in future. And since you have been responsible, this store is a challenge for me to do more and I stand here as a Father, to release blessings upon it. I therefore declare it opened in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit", he concluded.

Responding, the MD of De- Blessed Mini-Market, Mr Essien Lawrence, thanked his Boss, for the magnanimity showed him and the family, saying such is second to none.

While pledging to manage the business efficiently, he hinted that his support for 'UnwanaAdi' project of the Chairman remained unshaken.

De-Blessed Mini-market is located at number 47 Ikpa Road, off traffic light roundabout. It deals on assorted wines, beverages, food stuff, cosmetics products and lots more.

Mr. Essien is a native of Osuk Ediene in Ikono Local Government Area.

CHURCH OF CHRIST-NIGERIA
DEVOTIONAL MESSAGE
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2019
TOPIC: : WORDS: THE SEEDS OF DESTINY
TEXT: JOHN 1:1 & GENESIS 1:1


MESSAGE:
Once upon a time, a lady in my neighborhood went to the Preacher, crying of facing a divorce from her husband. According to her, "I never offended him. We were just discussing and that was when I jokingly laughed. I didn't appreciate the way my husband was doing things; which was why I said, 'why do you talk like a foolish man?'. And he immediately became angry and called off the marriage of 15years". She concluded.

Wow! That might have sounded conventional, isn't it? That is the flow in our contemporary society today, especially for average people who talk randomly. However, from the woman's statement, anyone can deduce the secret condition of her heart. And a third party or lawyer can imagine or have a clue who the woman truly was. This is because, words were uncontrollably released. And through those words, such secret in her heart was made public.

We live in a society words are randomly thrown against another: fathers abuse sons, mothers engaged daughters on verbal attacks, bosses used them on subjects, teachers disrespect you and a few preachers cannot garnish them appropriately, therefore throwing tantrums and diatribes, plaguing the world into unnecessary confusion.

The bible clearly emphasizes, "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God. And the Word was God".

Simply: Jesus is the word because through Him, all things were made. What He said became. Through the words of Jesus, the Earth and man were made. So, He is the words. More illustrations are found in Genesis, how God used words to form both living things and non-living things. This already is a proof on how powerful words are.

Philosophically, words are couriers of self-worth. Man, by nature is an end-product of his words; and cannot worth more than his speaking sprees. No man has ever risen beyond the contents of his message. And for member to rise, one needs to operate beyond the physical verbal promotion to declaration and proclamation.

Words have spiritual connotations. Anything released, inorder to be active or work, must first align with spirit. The divine universe connects, activate for physical actualization.

Very unfortunately, many Christians jokingly misuse opportunity to tap the resovior and fountain of divinity, forcing the divine nature to their advantage. This lack of knowledge has made so many to fall ignorantly: People carelessly talk without understanding who they are, what they were made for, and where they are going.

Remember, that Jesus must be the words you speak daily, should you desire to grow productively and meaningfully.

This message is a call for destiny-balancing by changing from norms: our former bad stage to a renewed form of living with the right words. The moment the right words are applied, things begin to happen. The future is guaranteed. The children move and grow according to expectations. Promotion comes without delay. Evil forces scatter and give way for increase.

PRAYER:
Oh, God. We give you all the glory for keeping us inspite offences against another with wrongs words. We have equally killed the destiny of our children. We have affected our lives wrongly. This we might not have known on time. Please Father, realizing our mistakes, may you connect us at this moment to your ever-flowing fountain of wisdom.

May this be so, as we move towards better days from now henceforth.

Amen!

ITORO COLUMBA CONDOLES WITH LATE INI LG MONARCH'S FAMILY


By Mberekkeobong Essien


The Chairman of Ikono Local Government Council, Hon Itoro Columba, yesterday led members of his cabinet, to commiserate with the family of the departed Paramount Ruler of Ini Local Government Area, HRM, Edidem (Apostle) Ntoeng Udo Effiong Akpan, at the deceased's palace at Ananamong, Itu- Mbonuso in Ini Local Government Area.

In his brief message to the family, Mr Columba said, the news of the demise of the monarch came at a time his fatherly role and wise counsels were still relevant and highly needed. The late Edidem Udo Effiong Akpan, he said, has left footprints in the sands of time and urged the family to take solace in the impactful life he lived.

"We are people who are well-versed with history. Ini Local Government Area was created out of Ikono in 1992 strictly for administrative purpose, but that has not severed the relationship between us. So we have come here to formally commiserate with the family on his death to re-echoe that bond", he said.


"I pray God gives you the first son the wisdom to consolidate on the legendary legacies of Edidem and continue to hold the family together. We assure you that we will be here on Friday to show our solidarity", Mr Columba added.

Responding on behalf of the family, the eldest son of the departed Paramount Ruler, Prince Rufus Udo Effiong Akpan, expressed his joy and profound gratitude to the council boss for the show of solidarity to the family in their moment of grief, pointing out that the condolence visit was significant and will help to strengthen them in the burial planning.

Other highlights were signing of condolence register by the chairman, presentation of live cow and other gift items to assist in the burial arrangement and Prayer for the bereaved family.

Edidem Akpan was 85 years of age. Until his death, he was the Chairman of the Akwa
Ibom State Council of Chiefs.

Present at the visit were Vice Chairman of the council, Otuekong Prince Etokobong, Secretary of the council, ObongAnwan Ofon Mike, Supervisors, Special Advisers in the council and aides to the Chairman.

AKHA INSPECTION TEAM LAUDS IKONO COUNCIL BOSS ON LEADERSHIP DRIVE

...ranks Ikono one of the cleanest

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Inspection team led by the member representing Nsit Atai State Constituency and Chairman, House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Rt. Hon. Mark Esset, has commended the wonderful vision of Ikono council helmsman from assumption of office, describing the Local Government Council as one of the cleanest.

Rt. Hon. Mark Esset disclosed this on Wednesday, during the committee visit to Ikono Local Government Council Headquarters, Ibiaku Ntok Okpo.

While expressing optimism for a brighter and better LG council with more laudable programmes in future, he hinted that the decision to keep the Secretariat clean wasn't a sudden act, but a consistent culture and mark of identity. He appreciated the Chairman for consolidating on some projects of the past administration and advised other LG council chairmen to follow the trend.

Recieving the House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Itoro Columba said, though it was an unscheduled visit,
he believed in the supremacy of the House of Assembly, explaining that it was their constitutional responsibility to do so.

The Chairman reeled out massive life-touching projects carried out by his administration amidst lean resources, while explaining that the welfare of staff and other activities of the Local Government Council were given top priority. He further revealed, that to ensure effective Local Government, the Council had invested much in constructing, upgrading and renovation of many markets in the area, as well as engaged natives in a number of capacity building exercises.

Mr Columba, stated that his administration had taken advantage of the UNICEF/AKS Government counterpart-funded WASH projects which had translated into at least two solar-powered reticulated water and VIP toilet facilities in all the wards. He also enumerated massive roads grading in wards, Students' welfare, maintenance of the party structure, healthcare delivery, empowerment programmes for the youths, women and physically challenged persons in the Local Government Area, among others.

Present during the Committee visit were all Councillors, Supervisors, Special Advisers and Ikono Local Government Council Staff members.

IKONO COUNCIL BOSS PARTNERS SMEDAN ON ENTREPRENEURIAL SKILLS TRAINING

...to register Business Names for 30 Ikono Trainees


By Mberekkeobong Essien

In an effort to reposition the mindsets of existing business owners and raise potential entrepreneurs in agro and non-agro sectors; build their capacities and financing management skills in the area and expose them to available funding opportunities, Ikono Local Government Council in collaboration with Small And Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDAN), has commenced an intensive business management Skills training, empowerment and business upgrade programme targeted at raising indigenes across all the eleven wards in the area to meet up with business standards.

The well-packaged training programme which is fully paid for by the Council currently has not less than 219 natives of Ikono, undertaking training on how to write business plans, access financial incentives from the CBN, the Federal Government and other finance outfits, will equally expose them to the ideals of identifying business opportunities in dry season farming, registration of business names with Corporate Affairs Commission and forming them into a cooperative societies.

The training which has officials from SMEDAN as trainers, is holding at the Council Secretariat.

Speaking during the training and empowerment programme flag-off, the Chairman of Ikono Local Government Council and facilitator of the programme, Hon Itoro Columba, said he was impressed by the massive turnout of natives for the five day exercise in Ikono.

"I'm seriously impressed by the massive turnout today for this training exercise. We are using today to determine the true- willing trainees. I take it that the numbers who came out here are the willing ones. If we were to place financial tag on this exercise, those who thought of money-sharing would have been disappointed; but I believe this is another level of empowerment. What we do is to empower you with ideas, knowledge and information. Often times, what you even need is idea. With good ideas, you can make money" Mr Columba said.

While noting that education plays a vital role in making anyone a better citizen in the area, he charged them to tap several areas available for business expansion, pledging that many would be selected for assistance.

"I was fifteen years when I started working. In 2007, I floated a media outfit in this State and became not just self-employed but an employer of labour. My belief is that formal Education is supposed to turn us into generalists capable of excelling in whatever we venture into.There are so many opportunities in business financing untapped. So what we are gathered here to do is to empower you with skills that will open your eyes to opportunities"he added.

He added that the loan they were to access from CBN for instance was to be single-digit at the end of the programme, adding that at the end of the training, the trainees would be examined with a view to selecting the most-outstanding trainees for assistance.

"I have the intention to register business names for not less than 30 successful trainees at no cost. In addition to this free training exercise, you will be given study manuals and other study aids. So I come here today, to charge and encourage you to take this training seriously. I remember that you were supposed to pay for certificates at the end, but I have also decided to write off the cost". Columba added.


In an interview, the State Manager of Small And Medium Enterprises Development Agency, State office in Uyo, Miss Lucy Johnson Ekpenyong, stated that the training was aimed at addressing unemployment in the state as the programme provided skills and knowledge for the teeming natives in the communities, to enable them become self-reliant and economically independent particularly in the area of writing business plans and accessing funding.

Participants at the training ground expressed their gratitude and appreciation to the Council chairman whose gestures brought to them the opportunity and promised to utilize judiciously the knowledge and empowerment from SMEDAN. The programme continues today, Wednesday, 11th September and will span through Friday 13th September.

IKONO SOUTH ELDERS COUNCIL LAUDS IKONO COUNCIL BOSS' STELLAR LEADERSHIP
..... passes vote of confidence on him, seeks collaboration


A foremost social political group in Ikono LGA, Ikono South Elders Council (ISEC) today paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of Ikono LGA, Hon. Itoro Columba in his office. The visit according to the Chairman of the group, Elder Matthew Umoh was to register their appreciation to the Chairman for his stellar leadership and to seek collaboration to move the area forward.


In his speech, The Ikono Elders Council Chairman stated that never in the history of the body after the time of Late Dr. Clement Bassey has a visit of this magnitude to Ikono LG Council been promulgated and undertaken. He congratulated the Chairman on his giant strides in the administration of the affairs of the Local Government, stressing that his experience, integrity, liberality and capability to lead was never in doubt. He recalled with appreciation some of the most valuable contributions of the Council helmsman to the upliftment of the area to include; grading of rural roads, attracting water schemes to communities in the area, empowerment of some youths of the area to start up businesses, initiating skills acquisition programmes, uplift in the Council infrastructural base, among others


Furthermore, he said the group in its capacity and in consultation with other stakeholders had identified some major community challenges affecting them and seek credible ways to urgently ameliorate them. Some of the challenges include the deplorable state of some major roads in the area, need for renovation and restoration of the foremost TTC now Lutheran Senior Science School, Ibakachi, need to empower youths with access to business funds and scholarships, need to appoint Ikono indigenes into sensitive public offices and the State executive council and the need to attract industries and government establishments to Ikono Local Government Area.


The intention of the visit he stated was to present the challenge areas before the Chairman and charge him to liaise with other Ikono stakeholders in pursuing them. The group clamoured for continued partnership between the office of the Chairman and the Elders council in the development activities of the council. A vote of confidence was latter passed on the Chairman.


In a separate reaction, The Vice Chairman, Elder Udeme Umoekah said that the visit was necessitated as a result of the love they had for the Chairman and in appreciation of his giant strides in leadership. He commended the Chairman for his large heart and peaceful disposition. He lamented the constant negligence of the area while appealing to him to actively involve the area in the scheme of things. He assured him of their continuous loyalty and solidarity going forward. He also commended the council Boss for sustaining peace in the Local Government while stating that Ikono south was ready to willingly donate land in the area for the citing of projects.


In his response, the Council Chairman, Hon Itoro Columba thanked the group for electing to pay him the momentous visit. He described them as faithful gatekeepers and opinion moulders in the Local government area who collaborated with others in bringing his government and that of other PDP candidates into existence. "Even in the midst of lack and inadequacy, you stood firm and won the election for the party. This is not a mean feat.", he said. He lauded them for being exemplary and standing out in leadership, a testimony of the eggheads in the area.


Speaking further, Hon. Columba commended the elders for supporting him to sustain peace in the land which he said was a function of quality leadership at different strata of governance. He poured encomiums on the Governor for his benevolence to Ikono and for providing counterpart funding needed to attract key life touching projects to the local Government such as the RAMP and WASH projects.


"There is no single ward in Ikono that doesn't have at least two of those donor agency funded projects today, all to the credit of His Excellency. I and my councillors and supervisors are united to push for a common front which is to seek development for our people", Columba said


In response to their prayers, the Council helsman disclosed that the Uyo Afaha Nkan - Urua Naira - Ikot Nseyen - Nung Ukim Road has been captured in the 2019 budget of the Akwa Ibom State government stressing that the Governor had gone further to attach a whopping N1b to the project. He stressed that government was in search of a suitable contractor to handle the project and that it was a big milestone for a project to get into the state budget. He added that soon the precarious situation of the road will be salvaged.

The award-winning Chairman promised to harness the leadership of elders in the three geopolitical zones into a single think tank to render advisory services to his government.


Columba commended the elders for being dependable allies and pledged his commitment to attracting to Ikono South whatever is due them. The International Market project he said was on course while assuring the elders that Ikono will not be neglected in the execution process of the project. Furthermore, he intimated the group of the 5-day training for Ikono people intended to equip them with soft skills and other such trainings scheduled to take place later in the month.

In attendance at the courtesy visit were the Vice Chairman of Council, Councillors, Supervisors and other officials of government.


He appreciated them for the confidence reposed in him while urging them to see him as an adopted member of the group and further assist him in sustaining peace in the area so development can thrive.



Delivering the vote of thanks, the Secretary of the group, Prince Inem Inyangete thanked God for granting them the opportunity to embark on the momentous visit. They appreciated the Chairman for the divine ideas to move the council forward and prayed God to grant him grace to do more for the people. He lauded the credible leadership quality of the Chairman while commending the supervisors and councillors for maintaining a cordial relationship him to foster peace in the council.

IKONO COUNCIL BOSS CHARGES PRISONS SERVICE ON OPERATIONAL REFORMS


The Executive Chairman of Ikono Local Government Council, Hon. Itoro Columba has charged the Nigerian Prisons Service to back up their new nomenclature with adequate reforms to befit its status as a correctional facility. Columba gave the indication Monday when he played host to the Ikot Ekpene Command of the Nigerian Prisons service now Nigerian Correctional service in his office. The delegation was led by the Comptroller, Ikot Ekpene Prisons, Pat Chukwuemeka


The Comptroller in his address thanked the Chairman for making out time to attend to them despite his busy schedule. The utmost mandate of the Nigerian Correctional service as a federal agency is now called he stated is to transform lives. He said to make good their mandate, there was need to collaborate with people on ground and also reach out to the political leaders of the area in which they operate.


"Prisons as a social service agency is all about transforming lives and equipping inmates with life skills that will help them reintegrate themselves into society, There is no way you can succeed in whatever you're doing without involving the host community, hence our visit", he said.


Speaking further, Chukwuemeka said his team needed to acquaint the Chairman with their activities, relate their challenges and seek collaboration to discharge their duties effectively. He lamented the
upsurge in defilement and sexual assault describing it as severe an offence as murder while stressing the need for social reorientation at the grassroots. He reiterated his intention to put in place a practical roadmap on how to rehabilitate inmates while seeking collaboration with the council to expand the vocational school at the Ikot Ekpene prison. He pledged their loyalty and support to the Columba administration


In his response, the Council Boss congratulated the group on their new nomenclature stating that the reformation of the prisons service goes beyond changing the nomenclature. The correctional component of the prison service he said should be inherent. He lamented the situation where prison capacities nationwide are over stretched leaving so much to be desired while urging the federal government to deliberately and consciously follow up name change with commensurate reforms


Columba described as shameful the ugly scenario where the federal government leaves its agencies poorly funded stressing that there was hardly any agency of the federal government that doesn't fall back to the Local Government for assistance, labelling such as a misnomer.


While the Local Government can barely meet the primary and basic constitutional expectations from the people he said, the federal government sits on a whooping 52% of accruing revenue. He therefore sued for commensurate funding to get the job done since so many eyes are on the Local Government system.


The Ikono Council Boss gave thumps up to Ikot Ekpene command of the correctional service for their intention to expand the scope of their skill acquisition programmes while stressing that his administration's policy thrust was in sync with that as over 200 Ikono indigenes were presently undergoing training in several skill areas at the council headquarters.


"Having established partnership with you, we will leverage on that going forward. I therefore commend you for your contributions to bettering the society and pledge not to spare any support to the service", he said


In his vote of thanks, Supervisor for Works and Transport in the council, Comrade John Bassey lauded the Ikot Ekpene Prisons service for deeming it fit to interface with the council. He assured the service of the partnership of the council urging them to feel free to interact with the Chairman as they had in him a man always ready to assist in every way possible.

IKONO COUNCIL BOSS RECEIVES AWARD AS MOST MEDIA- FRIENDLY LG CHAIR IN AKWA IBOM STATE


......charges office holders on media friendliness


The Executive Chairman of Ikono Local Government Area, Hon. Itoro Columba today received the award of the most media friendly Local Government Chairman in Akwa Ibom State. The award, an initiative of Dakkada Ibom Media, held at the NUJ Press Center and drew attendees from all works of life.


In his acceptance speech, the Council helmsman expressed
his excitement at being part of the event and to be honored as the most media friendly Chairman after a very transparent voting process. He stated that he was not an award freak but was thrilled to receive this award having realised it was driven by young men who decided to leverage on the mantra of the Governor to rise to the faith of greatness. Furthermore, he said he was impressed with the transparency of the award describing the process as devoid of favouritism and corrupt practices.


He emphasised the vital role of the social media in the present scheme of things while advising political office holders not to take the media for granted. He commended Nsit Ubium social media practitioners for unanimously standing by their kinsman the Chairman, Hon. Udemeobong Sylvanus, who came second in the Most Media Chairman.


"I advise anyone in public office not to take the media for granted. I see a future where political office holders will be more mindful of the media than they've ever been and i believe the social media can only be greater and stronger by the day", he said


Hon. Columba lauded the robustness of the media in the State as major contributors to the development of the State while charging the organisers of the awards to continue to be great ambassadors of His Excellency the Governor.


Other awardees included the First Lady of the State, Deaconess Martha Udom, Senator Chris Ekpenyong, Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke, Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Arc Ime Ekpo, Vice Chairman of Uyo, Akai Udeme, Hon. Otuekong Edemidiong, Mr. Leo Leo Umana, Prince Ikim, Mr. Aniekeme Finbarr etc

DEVOTIONAL MESSAGE
THURSDAY, JULY 04, 2019
TOPIC: REFLECTING THE INNER LIGHT
TEXT: SEARCH YOURSELF!


MESSAGE
In the journey of life, one is expected to have friends. And the beauty of friendship is in the abilty to take you through life. It is either such a friend taps from your wealth of knowledge or you in-turn gain meaningfully from a friend's mental fountain and resovior. Whichever ways, man must have interface with one another.

Last month, I decided to visit my friend in his apartment. He is Samuel by name, but not from Church of Christ. Though there is hope, that he will come to the light of truth. We were deep-rooted discussing issues bothered on Nigeria's floppy and insecure Economy.

The discourse berthed into the night; and because it was late, he did something flabbergasting that day; and I couldn't imagine his action until I got full interpretation drawing wisdom inline with true life experience.

Upon opening the door at the entrance to the house, Samuel switched on the power supply. The apartment was initially lit up. Everyone was happy at that moment. A few minutes after, my friend switched-off the power and immediately left for the Kitchen to prepare a meal.

I was left in the lonely dark, perplexed. After a short while, he came with a dinner, placed them perfectly well on the table; thereafter switched on the power again the second time.

But, on his return to the sitting room, I asked him, "Sam, why did you put-off the power while I was in?" My friend laughed for a while. Well, since I didn't understand him at that moment, there was a total muteness.

Then he asked me, "MB, how many times have you switched-off the light of other people and denied them an opportunity to use the light either because you have enough to waste, don't need it or don't want others to have it?".

Samuel continued, "this power supply is the light in this room, but there are power supply in the lives of human beings created by God with the sole aim to shine in the direction for others. Just like this apartment with power, man in the image of God has what another man requires for survival". He concluded.

Culling from these practicals, it reflected on me the lesson I learnt from Samuel's action while in his house. I remembered that the physical power is limited only by what its enables man to do at the moment; but there lies inner power untapped available for every living mortal who holds sway the belief of supernatural.

I have equally discovered that most Christians have limited or no knowledge of their inner lights. And a few ones who actually understand, live with consciousness to enjoy alone while burying it with them even to the grave without helping the needy.

We have refused to reflect from within, the sunshine God has deposited within us. We labour, make wealth, garner connections, build castles in the air, create dynasty for our relatives, boast around in affluence, appear untouchable, have all the leverages and contacts of this world without extending any to others.

Beloved brethren, this morning as you wake up from bed, the Lord sends this message directly to you, asking you a question: where is your inner light?

My dear, I'm asking you this simple question today: how many times have you put-off your light and denied others the opportunity to use your God-given light just because you do not need it and by so doing, they are in darkness today in deprivation?

My sisters, but why?

Why would you let your bank accounts grow so big with millions of Naria, while your brother's child is going barefooted? why would you put clothes you don't wear in the closet, while someone out there is almost going naked, why why and why?

My brothers, oh why?

Why would food rots in your houses, while there is someone out there sleeping hungry; that is equivalent to putting off electrical power supply against someone, leaving a visitor still in your apartment?.


MY PRAYER IS;
May God bless us this blissful morning as we turn on the lights we had in a long while switched off against some people somewhere and somehow.

And may God help us to put these lights for others that they can see and use to the glory of Him who made us.

NOTE:
I have no one in mine. Message not targeted at anyone, other than everyone.

ATI ANNANG FOUNDATION HONOURS ITORO COLUMBA ON EXCELLENCE


...charges inductees, other members on patriotism to fatherland


By Mberekkeobong Essien


It was a celebration galore at the 25th Anniversary/International convention and Grand Finale of a highly placed sociocultural group in Akwa Ibom State, the heartbeat of Annang Nation cleverly coined by the founding fathers to reflect dynamic disposition of its forerunners, gathered today for her National convention and induction of new members into the Hall of Fame.

The induction ceremony which held at the Ati Annang National Headquarters of the foundation, Cardinal Ekandem Avenue in Ikot Ekpene Local G vernment Area, had the Executive Chairman of Ikono Local Government Council, Hon. Itoro Columba accompanied by his dear wife, Mrs Ekaette Columba, honoured as an associate member with an award of excellence alongside many indigenes in the State; honourees carefully selected in view of their outstanding sacrifices to the growth, progress and unity of Annang, A'Ibom among others.

The silver jubilee event attracted Special Guest of Honour, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Deacon Udom Emmanuel and his Deputy, His Excellency Obong Moses Ekpo, clergy, Women groups, Youth groups, dignitaries from all walks of life all in attendance, to mark this year's epoch-making event.

Themed, "Annang Nation: Building Our Future Together", aimed to expose the aims by advancing the cause of Annang ethnic nationality and collective destiny of A'Ibom people; as a group which has been in existence founded initially as Annang Youth Movement on 23rd February, 1994, a name later changed to Ati Annang foundation to fulfil objectives.

Giving honour to whom honor is due, the group likewise recognized fifty past and living Annang legends with another sets of conferment by Ati Annang Foundation.

Other highlights were the unveiling of Annang Hall of fame, inauguration of projects, presentation of the certificates of induction, presentation of Awards, Presentation of Back Packs, Scholarships to University Students, wellness initiative, football competition, extension of hands of fellowship to eight non-Annang natives. Presentation of Cheques to Scholarships' recipients among others.

Those who spoke during the siver jubilee celebration were the Akwa Ibom State Governor, His Excellency, Mr Udom Emmanuel, the chairman on the occasion who doubles as Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Paul Usoro, SAN, the international President of Ati Annang Foundation, RT Hon. (Sir) Udo Kierien Akpan who doubles as House member, Oruk Anam State Constituency,


CONGRATULATIONS, IKONO CHAIR!

Itoro Columba warns cattle rearers on destruction of farm produce in Ikono


....as Ikono women protest against inversion by herdsmen


By Mberekkeobong Essien

As part of palliative measures toward securing our farmlands against destruction and protecting of lives and properties from further havoc in the cradle city, Ikono council helmsman, Akparawa Itoro Columba, today issued strict warning to all cattle herders situating in Nung Ukim Ikot Etefia, to desist from causing mayhem against the farmers of Ntippe Ibibio and their farm produce.

The locals have been protesting against the invasion of their farmlands by herders who don't only make rape advances at the women in Ntippe Ibibio community, but unleashed their roaring cattles to devour already planted crops with disdain; an unwarranted situation that left farmers with nothing to show for their labour.

The fruitful meeting which held in his office at Ikono Local Government Council Secretariat in Ibiaku Ntok Okpo, also discussed issues arising from protest recently carried out by women of Nung Ukim Ikot Etefia community and other concerned dwellers in the area, to the palace of Ikono Paramount Ruler and Police State using placards among other channels in Ikono Local Government Area.

Speaking at the meeting, the Ikono Council boss, Mr Itoro Columba said, he had to defy tight schedule to be in the meeting which was the reason an invite was sent to both natives of Nung Ukim community alongside Mayetti Allah Executive members, aimed at forestalling pending danger in the land and to address cow owners on possible compensation to the owners of farmlands invaded by herds of cattles through crises which directly destroyed their produce, saying such threats on his people is strange and cannot be taken lightly anymore.

The chairman thanked the youths of the community for not retaliating, acknowledging their sole duty which is to defend their people against killing, destruction and mayhem in the land. He said, as listening chairman that his administration will follow up the case to it's successful end, describing the act as barbaric which Ikono people have decided not to escalate as an issue. Council boss enthused, that the association is a well-structured body capable of compensating Ikono farmers.

Columba said, Ikono people are very hospitable and where herders' right stops is the beginning of women's rights in the land. The veteren Journalist advised cattle owners to take the advice back home for peace sake, emphasizing that two important resolutions must be reached at the meeting today as a way forward: Compensation method to Ikono farmers and refrain from further inversion by herders, adding that anyone can do a business without infringing on the rights of others.

Also speaking, the village head of Nung Ukim Ikot Etefia, Etteidung Effiong Akpan said, similar crisis happened some three years ago which led to an allegation earlier leveled against his personality to have collected a whooping sum of Three Hundred Thousand Naria, thanking God on the vindication after a successful investigation.

The community head, spoke on their decry complaining about the high level of destruction caused so far and pleaded with the chairman to find lasting solution to it.

Others who also spoke during the joined meeting included the Secretary-General of Mayetti Allah Association, Mr Ahmed Aliyu, Women Leader of Nung Ukim Ikot Etefia, ObongAnwan Arit Henry, Youth Leader, Akparawa Ubong Sunday and other members of Myetti Allah association. They all frown at such act as an infringement of liberty and promised to work together to unravel as well as end such abysmal practice.

At the end of the meeting, a certain Mr Ibrahim Musa was mentioned as coordinator of other cattle rearers in Ikono and was equally tasked with a position to assist security agents with investigation to track down anyone linked to the farm menace.

Present at the meeting were the Ikono LGC Vice Chairman, Hon (Dr) Idoteyin Etokobong, Council Secretary, ObongAnwan Ofon Mike Akpan, Divisional Police Officer in-charge of Ikono, SP Edet Udofia, NSCDC boss in-charge of Ikono, Superintendent Nino Roberts, DSS boss in-charge of Ibiaku, Mr Effiong Joseph, Village Head of Nung Ukim Ikot Etefia, Eteidung Effiong Akpan, Women Leader, ObongAnwan Arit Henry, Village Chairman of Nung Ukim Ikot Etefia, Obong Emmanuel Tom, Youth President, Akparawa Ubong Sunday Inyang, Members of Mayeti Allah and Aides to Ikono LG Chairman.

IKONO COUNCIL BOSS PLAYS HOST TO IKONO PARTY STAKEHOLDERS, FAITHFUL


.....Doles out empowerment packages for constituents


It was merriment and celebration galore today in Ikono LGA as the super-performing council Chairman, Hon. Itoro Columba in his characteristic nature played host to party stakeholders and faithful at Nung Udoe, Itak.


The epoch making event organised at the behest of the Chairman held at the home of the PDP State Legal adviser, Barr. Goddy Umoh and had in attendance the member representing Ikono/Ini in the house of reps, Hon. (Obong) Emmanuel Ukpong-udo, member representing Ikono State Constituency, Hon. Asuquo Nana Udo, Council Executive, members of the Legislature, Chapter and Ward officers of the party and the generality of party faithful in the Local Government.


In his address, the Council helmsman said he thought it wise to host the party as a show of his love for his people and a reminder of his continuous loyalty and gratitude to the party for giving him and other party candidates the platform to serve and excel. He reiterated that it has been in his character to gather his people together from time to time to fete them and ensure that what accrues to them as those in government is shared with indigenes drawn from the 11 wards.


"We are not in the best of times as it relates to funding. I wish to state that autonomy hasn't begun yet. Government went to court not to challenge autonomy but the draconian NFIU guidelines associated with it and as spokesperson of ALGON, I related the position of the Association with facts. The joint account which is a creation of the law remains the only known channel through which funds meant for the third tier of government is warehoused and subsequently shared. Joint Account can only be repealed by the amendment of Section 162 of the Nigerian constitution. Until that happens, status quo remains".

"We have a little improvement on what accrues to us and that's why we have gathered here today. We have selected our subjects from across the 3 geo political zones of Ikono to be empowered today and i assure you that we will continue to do this on a more regular basis. We called you as a council to thank you for your solidarity and cooperation and I assure you that the mandate you've given us has not been wasted. I stand proud to say we have not disappointed you and we will continue to hold the flag of people-oriented leadership high.

" I will do all within my power to ensure that we have a peaceful government so we have a peaceful Ikono", he said.


The Council Chairman promised to sustain the tempo and ensure that more persons benefit from his magnanimity and benevolence. He admonished those who received cash empowerments to invest it in productive ventures and declared that going forward an empowerment scheme will be organised in collaboration with SMEDAN to train Ikono persons on carrying out feasibility studies and writing of business plans.


He intimated the gathering that training in 20 different areas of skills was in the offing as forms will be out soon. Beneficiaries, he said, will be trained and empowered to start up the businesses for which they'll be trained. Furthermore he disclosed that he had written to 16 companies and potential partners who will equip the trainees at the end of the training.

He also spoke on the upcoming training of 200 entrepreneurs in collaboration with SMEDAN to prepare them for grants and loans.

The Ikono Council helmsman added that his approach to development is different as he believes in training first and then kiting the trainees with tools to start up. He assured Ikono people that he will continually promote and sustain peace in the area as long as he remains Chairman as it is in his nature to do so.


The PDP Chapter Chairman, Chief Moses Akpan in his response lauded the Chairman for continuously identifying with the platform he rode to governance. He urged party faithful to borrow a leaf from the Chairman whom he described as a leading light among his contemporaries and a good example in faithful stewardship. "In your journey to grace, remember that your ascension was as a result of the magnanimity of the party. Bear in mind that once you forget the party, your downfall is imminent", he said


In their separate responses, The House of Reps member for Ikono/Ini federal constituency, Hon.(Obong) Emmanuel Ukpong-udo and his State Assembly counterpart, Hon.Asuquo Nana Udoh commended the Chairman for his uncommon show of love to the party and his people and promised to continually support him. They both reiterated their commitment to the creation and provision of employment opportunities for the generality of Ikono people and admonished the beneficiaries of the Chairman's cash empowerment packages to put it to effective use.


Delivering the vote of thanks, the Deputy Chapter Chairman of the Party, Hon. Itoro Etukudoh thanked God for the success of the day and commended the Chairman for deeming it fit to give back to his people which urging him not to relent in reaching out.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of financial packages running into millions to 10 party faithful drawn from across the three geopolitical zones of the local government.

IKONO COUNCIL HELMSMAN CELEBRATES WITH KINSMEN


...as Isong Okon Ibanga, Mrs Blessing Lawrence, Elder Enang Etok's daughter dedicate babies, while Dr Emmanuel AkpanObong hits 60


By Mberekkeobong Essien


It was another day of God's abundance and extraordinary grace when the Chairman of Ikono Local Government Council, Hon Itoro Columba, today attended the child dedication and thanksgiving service in honour of little Miss Inemesit Isong Okon Ibanga.

The child dedication held at the Mount Zion LightHouse Full Gospel Church, Ekpemiong Itak in Ikono Local Government Area, had dignitaries from all walks of life. Mr Ibanga is a former PDP Chairman, Itak Ward 11.

The chairman later proceeded to celebrate with the family of Elder Enang Etok, a die-hard PDP elder statesman and believer of Gov Udom Emmanuel's mandate in ward 2, Ikono, whose daughter and son In-law Mr/Mrs David James, dedicated their child at the Living Faith Church, aka Winners Chapel, Obio Offot, Uyo,

At the World Mission Church, Ikot Udoro in Uyo, the Ikono Council boss felicitated with the family of Mr/Mrs Blessing Lawrence, on successful child birth and dedication service held in church today.

Mr Lawrence, an in-law in Ikono is married to former Miss Nseobong Clement Thomas, who until her marriage was a native of Afaha Itak, ward eleven in Ikono Local Government Area.

Thereafter, he was at St Patrick's Catholic Church, Afaha Inang, Abak Road, Uyo to celebrate with Dr Emmanuel Akpanobong who went to thank God on his 60th birthday.