Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has urged Ibibio people to close ranks, eschew individualistic tendencies and continue to work with other ethnic groups in the state to deepen peace, unity, and development.
The Governor stated this while playing host to a delegation of the Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio which paid a courtesy visit to him.
The visit was to present the new head of the socio-cultural organisation, Ntisong Pius James Okon, to him at the Government House in Uyo, the state capital.
Eno said Ibibio is widely recognised as the fourth largest ethnic group in Nigeria and must continue to remain formidable by ensuring unity of purpose.
The governor who, though an Ibibio son, has been very detribalised in his leadership disposition, noted that a united and peaceful Ibibio, working in harmony with other ethnic groupings in the State will translate to the overall peace and unity in the State.
He congratulated the new Ntisong, Ntisong IV Pius James Okon, on his successful emergence, and also the Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio for amicably resolving all the lingering issues which, he said, was not healthy for the progress of the body.
Governor Eno, who received and appreciated the body for honouring him as patron, assured them and other socio-cultural groups of continuous support, urging them to remain supportive of the ARISE Agenda.
Presenting the Ntisong IV to the governor, the President General of Akwa Ibom Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers and the Oku Ibom Ibibio, Ntenyin Solomon Etuk, said the visit was basically to present the Ntisong Okon, adding that the body had slated its 44th anniversary alongside his installation ceremony.
Etuk commended Eno for his leadership disposition which, he said, has engendered peace and unity across the state.
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On his part, Ntisong Okon commended the governor for his quality leadership, saying: “Your exemplary leadership is a beacon of vision, humility, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of our people.
“Under your stewardship, Akwa Ibom has witnessed peace, inclusiveness, sustainable development, reflecting the virtues of a leader divinely chosen to uplift both the Ibibio and the state at large.”
While saying that the governor’s ability to unify diverse interests and foster collective progress is a testament to the enduring wisdom of the Ibibio forebears, he conferred on him the title of Mkpisong of Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio and also appointed him as patron.
Other members of the team were Ntisong 111 Obong Essien Ekidem, Mkpisong Godwin Ntukudeh, Mkpisong Tony Okpon, Mkpisong Aloysius Etok, Mkpisong Okon Emah, Mkpisong T. O. Akpan, Atai Imo Essien, Mkpisong Chelly Okoko, Mkpisong Uwem Ekanem, Atai Edith Etete (Obonganwan), Mkpisong Aniekan Udoh, Mkpisong Nsudoh Nsudoh, Hon. Mkpisong Joshua Asuquo, and Mkpisong Ifiok Etuho.
On hand to receive the team with Governor Eno were the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; Executive Assistant/Chief Delivery Advisor, Aniefiok Johnson; and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mkpisong Frank Archibong.
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