247 News in Naija

26/08/2025

Ibom Metropolitan Polytechnic Breaks New Ground, Offers Triple Certification to Boost Global Employability

By Mfonobong Ukpong

Ibom Metropolitan Polytechnic, Uyo, has introduced a unique multiple-certification programme designed to give its graduates a competitive edge both within Nigeria and abroad.

The institution, known for its commitment to technical and vocational education, has adopted a new slogan, “One Polytechnic, Two Qualifications” but in reality, its graduates now leave with up to three professional certifications. Alongside the traditional National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND), the Polytechnic now offers the International Vocational Diploma (City and Guilds of London), recognized by the Federal Ministry of Education and widely accepted abroad, as well as the National Skills Qualification accredited by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

With this new model, Ibom Metropolitan Polytechnic has positioned itself as a trailblazer in higher education, bridging the gap between local training and global employability.

Speaking during the presentation of an International Vocational Diploma Certificate to a Computer Science Technology graduate, Mr. Friday Success Nicholas, on Monday the founder of the Polytechnic, Engr. Dr. Victor Williams, said the innovation was borne out of the institution’s determination to provide globally competitive training.

“This is the only Polytechnic in Nigeria where graduates earn three different certifications, National Diploma, International Vocational Diploma, and National Skills Certificate. With these, if you cannot find a job in Nigeria, you can seamlessly cross over to any other country and secure employment without extra requirements,” Dr. Williams stated.

He added that the Polytechnic runs programmes in oil and gas, hospitality, tourism, and entrepreneurship, among others, and expressed readiness to partner with both the Akwa Ibom State Government and the Federal Government in manpower development for critical sectors of the economy.

“We are answering the call for public-private partnership. We want to collaborate with Governor Umo Eno to ensure his administration succeeds in its human capital development agenda,” he emphasized.

Mr. Friday Success Nicholas, an indigene of Onna Local Government Area, while speaking with newsmen, expressed gratitude to the institution for equipping him with knowledge and certifications that will shape his career.

“The exposure I have gained here and the certifications I now hold will go a long way in securing my future,” he said.

Present at the event were the Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Christopher Akas, a member of the Board of Trustees, Mr. Imoh Akpan, the Director of Entrepreneurship, Ms. Emilyn John, and the Head of HR, Imaobong Ituen.

Meanwhile, admission into full time and part -time ND & HND programmes are ongoing at the Polytechnic, as the 2025/2026 academic calendar resumes on Monday 1st of September, 2025. Interested members of the public are adviced to visit the Polytechnic's website, Ibommetropoly.edu.ng, dial the following contacts, 08039462204, 07068913848, 08149094921 or visit the campus, off IBB Avenue Atan offot in Uyo for more information.

08/08/2025

Engr. Enobong Patrick Rallies Odoro Ikot, Backs Leaders Ahead of 2027 Polls

…as kinsmen vow to re-elect President Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno, and Senate President Akpabio

…₦1 million cash gift marks latest phase of empowerment drive

By Mfonobong Ukpong

On Thursday, 7th August 2025, Chairmanship Candidate in the 2024 Essien Udim Local Government election, Engr. Enobong Patrick, rolled out the drums to host his kinsmen at his Ikot Ebok Village, Odoro Ikot Ward 2.

The colourful gathering, which drew thousands of supporters across political lines, was a heartfelt opportunity for the Essien Udim-born businessman and politician to appreciate his people for their unwavering support and loyalty.

In his remarks, Engr. Patrick rallied the community to throw their weight behind the re-election bids of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno, and Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio in 2027. He urged continued cooperation with the government to sustain and expand ongoing development efforts.

In a show of solidarity, the gathering unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the trio of President Tinubu, Governor Eno, and Senator Akpabio.

The event was not without its moments of joy; in the true spirit of Happy Hour, Engr. Patrick gifted ₦1 million in cash, shared food, drinks, and warm fellowship with his people, making it an unforgettable day in Odoro Ikot Ward 2.

It would be recalled that recently, Engr. Patrick had splashed millions of naira and equipment support to small and medium scale business entrepreneurs, SMSE's, farmers, traders other categories of business owners in support of Governor Umo Eno's ARISE Agenda.

He has pledged to sustain this initiative which aligns with his philosophy of giving back to the society.

07/08/2025

Filling stations shut as IPMAN withdraw services in Akwa Ibom

06/08/2025

06/08/2025

06/08/2025

PUBLIC PRESENTATION OF THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT OF THE ARISE AGENDA IN TWO YEARS.

26/07/2025

Abasi People Foundation Unveils Podcast Series for Community Engagement
..Promises Meaningful, Rewarding Conversations

Abasi People Foundation (APF), has announced the unveiling a podcast, Abasi People Forum – a platform designed to engage the public in insightful discussions that will shed light on the context behind the mission of uniting Ibibio, Efik, Annang, Oro, Ekid, Obolo, and Ekoi as one shared identity.

This landmark initiative was formally made known through an exclusive video statement released to the press on Monday, July 21, 2025, by Dr. Victor Udo, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Abasi People Movement.

According to Dr. Victor Udo, the series will explore pressing issues, emerging trends, and transformative opportunities related to the Abasi People Movement, providing
Opportunities for understanding the inter and intra diversities, complexities and triumphs within Abasi Nation Communities

He said " the whole idea of this forum is to engage our people and create awareness for Abasi Nation ".

"So watch out in the next few days, we gonna be having information about our shared identity, the context of why we are doing this and also our aim".- Dr Victor Udo.

The podcast promises to illuminate the vision, values, and voices driving the Abasi People (Ndito Abasi) communities forward, both in Nigeria and globally, via thought-provoking conversations, cultural reflections, and meaningful developmental dialogues. It will contribute to Abasi Nation's growing impact and relevance as the 4th ethnic nationality in Nigeria.

To this end, the general public is hereby urged to stay tuned to the Abasi People Forum Podcast, your premier platform for informed discussions and authentic storytelling about Abasi Nation – the Abasians.

20/07/2025

Abasi People Foundation Concludes Inaugural Engagement tour in Akwa Ibom
.. Uniting Ibibio, Annang, Efik, Oro, Ekoi, Ekid and Obolo to Foster Strategic Partnerships for Equitable, Sustainable Development

A non-religious, non-partisan movement in Southern Nigeria, powered by Abasi People Foundation (APF), has successfully interacted with key stakeholders in Akwa Ibom, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and distinguished individuals from the political, business, and academic spheres.

Victor Udo, FNSE, PhD, Chairman and CEO of the APF disclosed this development during a press interaction on Sunday, July 13, 2025, sparking significant public attention.

According to Dr. Udo, Abasi People Movement campaign is aimed at uniting Ndito Abasi (Ibibio, Annang, Efik, Oro, Ekoi, Ekid and Obolo) for collective self enlightenment towards equitable and sustainable development.

Building on APF's mission to unify, cement and celebrate diverse dialect groups that reverence, the supreme God as Abasi, the movement seeks to evangelize Abasi People or Abasi Nation as the 4th largest ethnic nationality in Nigeria.

The movement is projecting Abasi People collective self-emancipation, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting shared identity in Nigeria and the world at large.

Having received audiences from key stakeholders across various strata in the state, Abasi People Movement has significantly advanced its aim to mobilize and unite Ibibio, Efik, Annang, Oro, Ekid, Ekoi, and Obolo across 7 LGAs in Cross River and 31 in Akwa Ibom State to pave the way for unified development under the banner of "One God, One Voice".

Notably, the foundation has garnered royal support from revered Royal Fathers, including the Oku Ibom Ibibio and President General of the Akwa Ibom State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, His Eminence Ntenyin (Dr.) Solomon, CFR; HRM Odidem Bassey Etim Edet, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers and Paramount Ruler of Udung Uko LGA; and His Majesty Obong Blaise Awakama, Itai Afe Annang.

The Akwa Ibom State Chapter of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Dr. Chris Nyong has endorsed the movement as well as key business, political and academic leaders including Otuekong Chief Sunny Jackson, Chief Ndueso Essien, Senator Ibok-Essien and the President General of Oro Development Union ; Sir Essang Nsa Bassey.

Also endorsing the movement are key religious leaders such as the General Superintendent of Qua Iboe Church, Reverend Ekpedeme Moffat Effanga, the Field Superintendent of African Apostolic; Apostle Edet Michael Udoka, and Pastor Ukafia of Insights Bible Ministry.

Abasi People Movement is backed by Paramount Rulers like HRM Akuku (Professor) Amanam Udoh of Etim Ekpo L.G.A, HRM Edidem Sylvanus Effiong Okon of Uyo L.G.A, HRM Edidem ECD Abia of Eket L.G.A, HRM Uboon Harry J.Etetor ix of Eastern Obolo, HRM Okuku Uwa Umoh of Obot Akara L.G.A, HRM Akuku Okon Udo Ukut of Ikot Ekpene L.G.A, HRM Edidem (Dr.) Edet Akpan Inyang of Itu L.G.A, HRM Akuku (Engr.) Amos Daniel Akpan of Ukanafun L.G.A, HRM Edidem Etim Nnana Itang of Ikono L.G.A, HRM Edidem Cosmas Nkanga of Uruan L.G.A, and HRM Akuku Saviour Sylvester Udofia (JP) of Abak LGA.

These leaders agree that Abasi People Movement is a timely call for Ibibio, Annang, Efik, Oro, Ekoi, Ekid and Obolo to come together as Ndito Abasi, Abasi People, Abasi Nation and Abasians.

Abasi People have one shared identity, one culture and one God in one contiguous space (land, water and air) as the old Calabar Province in 38 LGAs of Nigeria and Diaspora.

19/07/2025

OPINION

The Road That Leads Home: The Ekperikpe Ekpo Footprints

By Nseabasi S. J. King

I watched with a silly grin on my face as soldiers took away every paraphernalia of the ruling party, including official documents and brand new bicycles in my father’s care, days after Major General Muhammadu Buhari in a military coup dislodged the government of President Shehu Shagari on the night of December 31, 1983.

This was 1984. And I was a primary school pupil. My father was a chieftain of the ruling National Party of Nigeria, NPN, a cabinet member and key figure in the Senator D. D. Etiebet inner circle that held sway in the politics of the then Cross River State.

I was already lobbying my dad for one of those fancy bicycles before the khaki boys struck, each time I joined him at the dinner table. With a smile, he had always turned down my request but I never gave up. I was actually under pressure from my playmates.

Every time we walked past the storehouse where the party bicycles were kept, in great admiration of the beautiful designs we would stop, hang around the window and start sharing the bikes among ourselves. Children and their usual mind games. It was from here that everyone sent me back to my dad to speak for my constituency.

When I later relayed my frustrations with my dad to my mom, she had a good laugh and I was embarrassed. She told me that he was doing the right thing, and went on to explain it further to me. Finally, she asked for the name of the particular bike that I wanted and got me a higher model of it. This was a classic case of saving the best for last.

But there is also the serve the best for last dictum. It is a Guy Code. Bro to bro. You won’t find it in the dictionary. Do not be drunk with the first wine, like the men of Cana in Galilee. This was Jesus’ first miracle. The real deal is somewhere in the chiller and is served last. The gbedu is always at the party after the party. So drink responsibly, 18+. And learn to wait for the best part.

A Nigerian-born engineer who is working as an international expatriate in the oil and gas sector in North America, who thinks that I am creative and always full of new ideas, once told me that when it is time for us to build our houses, he will wait for me to go first. Then he will pick my house model and ask me to tell him what I would have done differently.

I indulge a lot in self-appraisal and I am my worst critic. I always want to have the best possible or within my reach. This is why I constantly look for that room for improvement in all my projects. Sadly, this attitude of mine becomes an issue with those who do not understand my person.

Though we had been childhood friends and schoolmates growing up, I was surprised that he acknowledged this streak in me and said that he was going to wait for a revised model of my house project in the future.

I have recalled this conversation here because of what happened when some time ago a certain list of new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Conversion Centres surfaced online and Akwa Ibom State was conspicuously missing in the social media roll call.

Mind you, Akwa Ibom State is the highest oil-producing State in Nigeria with approximately 504,000 bpd, which often includes large volumes of associated natural gas.

Understandably, I was inundated with calls from my media friends and political associates. One of my callers pointedly told me to remind the Honourable Minister that this is his home state, and that we are not going to play second fiddle in anything gas. Wahala.

I laughed and reminded him instead that the Minister knows whose son he is and should need no reminder. I emphasised that he is not known by an English name like me, and that his two native names, Ekperikpe Ekpo, would always point him to the road that leads home. We both laughed and ended the call.

A few months down the road, the Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGI) coordinated by M. Oluwagbemi announced the new CNG mother-daughter station model for a wider and more accessible distribution network.

The next thing I saw, Nsik Oil and Gas was doing a Mother Station in Esit Eket, NIPCO was doing a Daughter Station in Oron, and Gestac was doing a Conversion Centre in Uyo. I mean all 3 project categories and value chain.

Maybe, just maybe, Ekperikpe Ekpo, just like my friend was smart enough to wait for the revised model or better still, was patient enough to wait for the full package.

Like my dad and his party bicycles, I do not think he would ever give us anything that he can not justify, and like my mom, would never deny us any privilege whenever the opportunity presents itself. He knows the road that leads home.

Hear him, “As an indigene of Akwa Ibom, I am proud to witness this convergence of visionaries committed to gas-powered prosperity.”

This was at the South South Gas Utilisation Forum 2025 in Uyo, where a $3.5b Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Akwa Ibom State government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, represented by its affiliate, Gas Aggregator Company of Nigeria (GACN).

According to an official statement by NNPCL, the MoU signals, “the South South geopolitical zone’s commitment to driving gas industrialisation for shared prosperity.”

Ekperikpe Ekpo’s commitment to shared prosperity in the gas sector has never been in doubt and has not excluded the state and the interests of all her people.

The Nsit Ubium-born emerging business giant and Chairman of the Nsik Group, Mr. Nsikan Johnny, is now a key player in the Nigerian oil and gas industry.

As Co-Chair of the Midstream Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund, MDGIF, he has given Akwa Ibom State a deserved place at the table with the coming on stream of Nsik Oil and Gas, and its subsequent listing in the N122b gas infrastructure fund disbursement alongside five others.

Strategically, in a clear business sense, he has duly handed an Akwa Ibom person a veritable platform to meet, greet and build a network with the likes of Tein Jack-Rich of Belema Oil, Abdul Samad Rabiu of BUA Group, Wale Tinubu of Oando PLC, Aliko Dangote of Dangote Refinery etc., in business meetings and energy summits.

In a signed and sealed $1.2b deal with the BFI Group, he has brought in the Chinese to bring back to life the dead Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria (ALSCON) plant at Ikot Abasi. With ALSCON alone, sooner than later, many are returning to work.

In Ibeno, there is an ongoing 20,000 metric tonne Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) depot by Windek Energy Limited within the Liberty Oil and Gas Free Zone in Atabrikang. This is a work in progress. On completion, cooking gas would be more affordable and accessible and closer to home than ever before.

Jindal Group is also in the wings with a $4b investment portfolio to offtake 450 million standard cubic feet of natural gas per day for use in a 10 million tonnes per annum Hot Briquetted Iron (HBI) steel plant to be located in the Ibom Solutions Hub Industrial Park (ISHIP), a free zone facility in Akwa Ibom State.

With the likes of Jindal Steel, BFI Group, CNCEC, Windek, NIPCO, Gestac, Nsik Oil and Gas, and many others in the pipeline, Akwa Ibom State is the next big thing in the region, a business district and the gas hub for high-paying jobs and supply contracts.

The pair of Ekperikpe Ekpo, Ph.D, and Umo Eno, Ph.D, is writing the best thesis in economic development and wealth transfer that will win the college President’s prize in the summer.

As more gas projects and billion-dollar investments continue to arrive and unpack in our state and the South South zone, our knight in the NNPC Towers has given President Tinubu his talking points and Senate President Akpabio his bragging rights as 2027 draws near.

For me, I can not wait for when our pastor in the Hilltop Mansion and the new party leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, in Akwa Ibom State would be sharing party bicycles. I still dream of those NPN pieces. Maybe, if I lobby the APC Chieftain, Atuekong Don Etiebet, CON, this time, he can help get me one.

In closing, remember NOT to get drunk with the first wine like the men of Cana in Galilee. Guy Code. Bro to bro. The real deal is always in the chiller. Drink responsibly 18+. And learn to wait for the best.

Ride with me...

Joy is coming!

18/07/2025

*Itu Legislative Council Passes Resolution Commending Governor Umo Eno*

*By Nse-Abasi Odiong*

The 8th Itu Legislative Council, in a unanimous resolution during plenary on Thursday, commended the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, for his transformational and people-oriented leadership.

A motion, sponsored by the Deputy Leader and Councilor representing Oku Iboku Ward 1, Hon. Samuel Inyang highlighted Governor Eno’s sterling commitment to peace and stability, his consistent prioritisation of workers’ welfare, including the prompt payment of gratuities and salaries, as well as his inclusive development approach that has directly benefited Itu Local Government Area.

Hon. Inyang described the Governor’s leadership as exemplary and worker-friendly, adding that his compassionate policies have brought renewed dignity and relief to public servants and retirees across the state.

Governor Eno’s infrastructural strides in Itu, including the construction of roads, model schools, and compassionate homes, were also highlighted as tangible evidence of inclusive governance.

Speaking before referring the motion to the House Committee on Rules, Business, Ethics, Information and Privileges, the Leader of the Legislative Council, Hon. Godswill David, praised the mover for what he called “a well-thought-out motion.”

He affirmed that members of the 8th Legislative Council are witnesses to the Governor’s superlative performance, describing him as a caring father.

Hon. David also applauded the Executive Chairman of Itu Local Government Area, Hon. Ubong Nkutt, for complementing the Governor’s vision at the grassroots.

He described the Chairman as a reliable backbone of the Legislative Council, citing his impressive leadership track record since assuming office.

The Leader subsequently referred the resolution to the House Committee on Rules, Business, Ethics, Information and Privileges, chaired by Hon. Oduduabasi John, for onward transmission to the Governor.

24/04/2025

PEOPLE CENTRIC GOVERNANCE: A'IBOM STUDENTS BENEFIT FROM GOV UMO ENO's HUMANITARIAN DISPOSITION
..as Humanitarian commissioner empowers vulnerable students, others in commemoration of Governor's birthday

In a heartwarming display of humane governance, Akwa Ibom State Governor Governor Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D, has once again demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of the most vulnerable members of society.

In commemoration of his 61st birthday on Thursday, April 24, 2025, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, under the leadership of Honorable Commissioner Princess Emem Ibanga FCIPA, launched a project to support indigent final-year students across various tertiary institutions in Akwa Ibom State.

The initiative, which is a testament to the Governor's people-centric governance ideology, aims to empower students from disadvantaged backgrounds to achieve their academic goals. Through a meticulous selection process, students from the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU), and the School of Nursing were identified and assisted.

The beneficiary departments include Chemistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, Microbiology, Human Kinetics, Health Education, and Political Science.

Notably, the project also extended to a student from the Persons Living with Disabilities sector, underscoring the government's commitment to inclusivity and the Governor's vision for a society that is inclusive and supportive of all its members. This gesture is a shining example of the Governor's humanitarian governance style, which prioritizes the needs of the most vulnerable and promotes social development.

The project support is designed to aid the educational advancement of these students, in line with the Governor's humanitarian disposition

In her remarks, Princess Ibanga said the initiative was launched to mark the Governor's birthday. She highlighted that the project further serves as a fitting tribute to the Governor's leadership style, which is characterized by empathy, compassion, and a deep commitment to the welfare of his people.

In her words, the Governor has built over 200 Arise Compassionate Homes, and they are not mere structures—they are sanctuaries of restored hope.The Bulk Purchase Agency, which puts food on the tables of the most vulnerable, is a deliberate resistance to hunger—a statement that in Akwa Ibom, no one shall be forgotten, and no one shall be left behind.Governor Eno’s humanitarian vision is deeply systemic".

“ He empowers women not with pity, but with enterprise tools. He supports youths not with slogans, but with structured empowerment rooted in needs assessments. He cares for the elderly with foresight, creating homes of dignity like the ARISE Elderly People’s Home.His healthcare and education interventions especially the Arise Model Primary Health Centres and Schools cut across all Local Government Areas , a testament to his understanding that true humanitarianism is not episodic but structural”.

“Today, we do not just celebrate a Governor. We celebrate a man who shows us that compassion is not weakness but strategic strength. A man who makes it clear that humanitarian development is not a footnote in governance but the headline”.

Beneficiaries of the project have expressed their gratitude to the Governor and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs for the support, which they say will go a long way in helping them achieve their academic goals.

Governor Umo Eno’s ideals in humanitarian governance, aligns with people-centric leadership, African renaissance values, SDGs goals and compassion-driven public service .To Him, Leadership is not about power; it is about purpose. Not about position, but people and redefined governance through the lens of compassion, equity, and people-centric leadership.