Akpabio, Eno, others celebrate Akwa Ibom at 39

The 39th anniversary of Akwa Ibom State came alive during the week as the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; his wife, Ekaette; Governor Umo Eno and other distinguished guests gathered for a colourful celebration.

Held at the Arise Palm Resort, the event featured a blend of culture, entertainment, food, recognition and philanthropy. Guests were treated to colourful cultural displays, masquerade dances and presentations.

Dressed in colourful traditional attires, guests mingled, watched cultural performances and celebrated the journey of the state since its creation 39 years ago.

Akpabio, who was a special guest at the event, congratulated the government and people of Akwa Ibom on the anniversary, describing the creation of the state by the administration of former military Head of State, Ibrahim Babangida, as a fulfilment of the aspirations of its founding fathers.

In his goodwill message titled, “Akwa Ibom at 39: Celebrating Our Journey, Building Our Future,” the Senate President congratulated Eno and the people of the state.

He said, “On behalf of my family, the Senate and the entire National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I extend my warmest congratulations to His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, the Government and the good people of our dear State on the auspicious occasion of the 39th anniversary of its creation.”

Akpabio also commended Eno’s administration, particularly the Arise Palm Resort, where the anniversary banquet was held, describing it as one of the notable achievements of the administration.

One of the major highlights of the evening was the recognition of outstanding academic performance through scholarship awards worth millions of naira.

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Eno announced scholarships for two outstanding students. Uwakmfon Unwana Jacob received N30m to study Software Engineering at Nile University, Abuja, while Joseph Akpan, the best graduating student in Medicine and Surgery at the University of Uyo, was awarded N160m to pursue a master’s degree in Surgical and Intervention Science at McGill University, Canada.

The scholarship presentations added a philanthropic touch to the festivities, with guests applauding the gesture as the beneficiaries were celebrated for their academic achievements.

The event also featured a food presentation, book launch, awards and lively cultural performances.

Masquerade dances added colour to the evening as performers in elaborate costumes entertained guests and showcased the cultural heritage of Akwa Ibom.

The gathering attracted government officials, traditional and community leaders, academics, business personalities, friends and associates, who joined the state to reflect on its journey while looking ahead to the future.

Among the prominent guests were Nollywood actress, Ini Edo; and chef and world record holder, Hilda Baci.

The festivities also featured the unveiling of a book by the governor.

As music, cultural performances and social interactions continued into the night, the 39th anniversary celebration ended on a festive note, with guests savouring the hospitality and cultural richness of the state.