Ibom-Ink Media Outlet (2025)

12/09/2025

RE: CONVERSION OF ACADEMIC STAFF WHO HAVE SPENT FIVE (5) YEARS WITHOUT ACQUIRING A MASTER’S DEGREE TO NON-TEACHING STAFF

By Destiny Young | September 12, 2025

The recent directive from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), mandating the conversion of academic staff in TVET institutions to non-teaching staff if they fail to acquire a Master’s degree within five years of employment, marks a significant turning point for polytechnic education in Nigeria.

From my perspective as a cybersecurity and IT operations professional deeply engaged in technology and education, this policy is a positive stride towards raising academic standards and professionalising the teaching workforce in Nigerian polytechnics. By enforcing a moratorium that requires academic staff to advance their qualifications beyond a Bachelor’s or HND level, the NBTE is ensuring that educators are better equipped with advanced knowledge and skills that can directly enhance the quality of technical education.

This directive promises several potentials for polytechnic education. Firstly, it could greatly improve the calibre of teaching and learning, fostering an environment where students gain from instructors with deeper academic and practical expertise. Better-qualified staff are more likely to inspire innovation, critical thinking, and applied competencies critical to technical and vocational education.

Secondly, it might stimulate a culture of continuous professional development and lifelong learning among academic staff, which is essential in fast-evolving fields like cybersecurity, IT, and other technology-driven disciplines. As polytechnics endeavor to keep pace with global educational standards and industry demands, this move aligns academic staff development with contemporary educational and professional benchmarks.

Thirdly, the policy could enhance the reputation and credibility of Nigerian polytechnics nationally and internationally. Graduates from institutions with well-qualified teaching staff are likely to have better opportunities globally, contributing to the country's broader goals of digital transformation and economic development.

However, for this directive to reach its full potential, adequate support mechanisms must be in place. Policymakers and institutional leaders should consider providing accessible postgraduate programmes, funding, and time allocation for staff to pursue advanced degrees without compromising their teaching responsibilities.

In conclusion, the NBTE’s directive is a bold and necessary step towards elevating the standards of polytechnic education in Nigeria. By enforcing higher academic qualifications among teaching staff, it holds the promise of strengthening the technical education sector to meet modern challenges, thus positioning Nigerian polytechnics as pivotal drivers of national development and innovation.

10/06/2025

WELFARE CONCERN ALERT: A REQUEST FOR PUBLIC ASSISTANCE

Good evening, Comrades!

I am reaching out with deep concern regarding a dear Comrade, Colleague and Friend – Amb Enwongo-Abasi Francis; a well-known and highly respected figure in academic and activist circles. He is a Librarian and was actively involved in advocacy and social development causes. His vibrant personality, dedication to education and deep concern for social justice earned him widespread admiration, especially within the University of Uyo and across Akwa Ibom State.

The last communication I had with Him was sometime last year, when he reached out to me via WhatsApp, seeking financial assistance to purchase medication for asthma. What pains me the most is that, although both of His Phone lines have been unreachable since that Month, I hadn't realised how quickly time had passed, overwhelmed by the relentless pursuit of daily survival, until I came across Maurice Usang's recent post about Him. It struck me deeply – sudden and filled with memories.

His sudden and prolonged silence is deeply troubling, and I am now compelled to seek help from the public, especially those who may have had recent contact with him.

If you are from Ikono (His hometown), the University of Uyo, or anywhere in Akwa Ibom State and have any useful information about His whereabouts, wellbeing or circumstances, please reach out to us immediately. Any piece of information, no matter how small, may be helpful.

We are hoping and praying for his safety and well-being. Please share this post widely, especially among networks connected to the University of Uyo community and the Ikono community in Akwa Ibom State.

For any information, kindly contact us directly via inbox or phone (Comr Major Abasifreke – 0703 107 1814; Maurice Usang – 0901 882 9113)

Thank you, for your assistance!

20/05/2025

Sen. Akpabio blames Police, Army over insecurity in the Nation.

20/05/2025

BREAKING NEWS: Nurses Pr()test at University of Calabar Teaching Hospital Over Arrest of Colleagues

Tension flared at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) as nurses staged a protest on May 20 following the arrest of three of their colleagues by police officers the previous night.

According to eyewitnesses, the arrested nurses had attended to a patient who had reportedly fallen from a keke (tricycle) and was brought to the hospital by a Good Samaritan. Despite their efforts to save his life, the patient sadly passed away during treatment.

The relatives of the deceased, in search of accountability for the incident, allegedly involved law enforcement. At approximately 9:00 PM on May 19, police officers arrived at the hospital and arrested the nurses on duty.

As of the time this report is being filed, the detained nurses have not yet been released, sparking the protest by their colleagues demanding justice and immediate release of the arrested staff.

More details shortly…….

© Calabar Gisy

20/05/2025

As a representative of the people, nothing beats the feeling of seeing pure joy on the faces of your constituents.
I remain committed to the happiness of the people of Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency
There's more ahead!
Joy is coming.

© Rt. Hon.. Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo

20/05/2025

ENVIRONMENT AND MINERAL RESOURCES HELMSMAN CHARGES FORESTRY AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION STAFF OF THE MINISTRY ON MORE PRODUCTIVITY

The Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources, Rt Hon. Nsikak Ekong has charged staff of the Forestry and Environmental Conservation in the Ministry of Environment and Mineral Resources to put more efforts in performing their designated duties in their areas for maximum productivity.

The Environment Boss stated this during a meeting with staff of Forestry and Environmental Conservation of the Ministry in the Conference Room recently.

Rt. Hon. Ekong admonished on the need for each and every one of them to be up and doing in their field of work noting that it is the way they can yield revenue to the Government and have dignity in labour.

Assuring the staff of his resolve to restore their duty specifications which was taken over from the department some years back the, Commissioner urged staff to always be on their duty post and not hesitate to report all illegal activities by members of the public to their Director who will relate same to the management for prompt action.

Stressing on the fact that all land belongs to government,the Commissioner assured officers working in the forest government plantation of safety at work and declares his intention of fencing round the property.

The Permanent Secretary, Iquo Abia, Esq explained that there are official papers that back government properties and so staff should focus on their assign duties and not be deterred of harassment.

The Director of Forestry and Environmental Conservation, Ita Esin commended the Commissioner for the timely intervention in addressing the challenges faced by Forestry and Environmental Conservation Department for some years
and pledged optimum performance by staff of the department .

The meeting had in attendance Forestry and Environmental Conservation Workers across the Local Government Areas.

INFORMATION UNIT
MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND MINERAL RESOURCES.

20/05/2025

NSIT IBOM CHAIRMAN AWARDS FULL SCHOLARSHIP TO JAMB TOP SCORER, ABASIAKAMA JOSEPH

In a heartwarming display of support for academic excellence, the Executive Chairman of Nsit Ibom Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. Otobong Aaron has promised to sponsor Master Abasiakama Joseph through his Aeronautical Engineering Program in the Tertiary Institution after securing admission. Abasiakama Joseph is an indigene of the area and a student of Successfulville Secondary School, Edeobom 1, Mbiaso 3, who recently achieved the highest score (371) in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), broke a ten-year record.

While receiving Mr. Abasiakama and his parents in her office, Rt. Hon. Aaron expressed immense pride in the young student’s outstanding achievement. She stated that as a leader passionate about education, she was thrilled to learn about his record-breaking performance and felt it necessary to personally celebrate and support him.

“As someone who values excellence and progress, I was excited when I got the news of Abasiakama’s achievement, I knew I had to meet him and ensure that nothing hinders his academic journey; hence, I invited you and your parents today.

That is why I have decided to sponsor his education through the university,” the Chairman said. The Chairman also gave the sum of two hundred thousand naira to Master Abasiakama for his preliminary school registrations and other immediate school requirements.

Reinforcing the Council’s Commitment to Education, the Supervisor for Education, Hon. Eyo Eyo Essiet, thanked the Chairman for her unwavering dedication to the Educational Advancement of Nsit Ibom indigenes.

He praised her consistent and timely support whenever excellence is recognised and encouraged, Master Abasiakama, to stay focused on his goals, reminding him that discipline and determination would lead to continued success.

Also speaking, the Councillor Representing Mbiaso 5 Ward and Chairman of the House Committee on Education, Hon. James Ndueso, applauded the Chairman for her generous gesture and encouraged the young scholar to keep striving for greatness.

In her remarks, the Head of Service, Mrs. Jenny Inyang, urged the student to remain committed to his dream of becoming a pilot, noting that it begins with continued dedication to his studies. She expressed confidence that with the right mindset, Abasiakama would continue to make his family, community, and state proud.

Responding. The beneficiary, Master Abasiakama John, who intends to study Aeronautics, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Chairman for her kind gesture, promising not to disappoint her and the community.

His mother, Mrs. Emem John, offered prayers for God’s guidance, wisdom, and blessings upon Rt Hon. Aaron and the leadership of Nsit Ibom. Overwhelmed with emotion, she described the scholarship as an extraordinary and unexpected honour, adding that her family would remain forever grateful. The father also thanked the Chairman for her generosity and encouragement.

This recognition further affirms the administration’s dedication to fostering educational excellence and creating opportunities for young talents in Nsit Ibom.

The event was witnessed by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Udeme Philip, Leader of the Legislature, Hon. Nsikak Asuquo, Council Secretary, Mrs. Eyakndue Unaam, Supervisor for Agriculture, Mrs. Comfort Usoro, Health, Mrs Ekaette Ossom, S.A. on Information, Mr. Kufre Etuk, Small & Medium Enterprise. Miss Mboutidem Akpan, Director of Works, Engr. Samuel Umana, SDEISC. Mrs. Emem Duncan.

Information & P.R Unit
NBLC

22/07/2024

OTOBONG AARON: A Driver of Grassroots Development Through Skills Acquisition and Financial Support

As the curtain of Transition Committee leadership of Local Government nears its termination it is pertinent to reflect on the grassroots development strides of the Transition Committee Chairman of Nsit Ibom Local Government Area, Dcns Otobong Aaron.

Barely two months of ascending the seat of leadership, Hon, Aaron selected youths across the 11 wards of the Local Government and trained them on various life-enhancing skills, followed by financial support to help them establish themselves and put to use, the skills garnered from the weeks of intensive training. The skills are; catering, pastries, shoe making, soap and detergent/bleach production, perfume production and lots more.

These initiatives underscore her commitment to fostering sustainable development and uplifting the lives of indigenes. It became clear that this tenure will be marked by relentless efforts to equip constituents with essential skills, thereby enhancing their economic prospects and fostering self-reliance. By providing financial support to local entrepreneurs, she has invigorated small and medium scale businesses, creating a ripple effect of prosperity within the community.

These are the hallmarks of a compassionate leader as she is dedicated to ensuring that every indigene has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to our collective progress. Her vision is to extend these initiatives and introduce more programs that directly benefit our people when elected as Executive Chairman.

As the Transition Chairman, Mrs. Aaron recognizes her primary responsibility to make the grassroots feel the benevolence and impacts of the government. Her blueprint is grounded in tangible, impactful actions that resonate with the needs of the community.

“Through continuous skills development and targeted financial support, we are laying the foundation for a prosperous and self-sufficient community. This is not just a plan; it's a commitment to our people's future." She fondly states.

The community has already seen the transformative impact of Aaron’s leadership, with numerous success stories of individuals who have benefited from her programs. Her approach is not just about immediate relief but about creating long-term solutions that empower residents and foster enduring development.

As the Electoral decision stage gets set, Aaron’s pledge is clear: to build on the successes of her current tenure and expand her initiatives, ensuring that the grassroots continues to thrive under her leadership.

"We are just getting started, and with the community's support, we can achieve greater heights. Together, we will continue to build a future where everyone has the tools and opportunities to succeed." Her usual Mantra.

Under Hon. Oto Aaron's leadership, the grassroots community can expect a future defined by progress, empowerment, and sustained development. Her motherly care and strategic vision make her a beacon of hope and a catalyst for lasting change.

Let us make this choice…

20/07/2024

5 REASONS WHY OTOBONG AARON IS BEING BLACKMAILED

1. She has changed the 'mkpo ibaha' narrative in Nsit Ibom.

2. Since the day, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno visited Nsit Ibom farm and praised her for her sterling performance, her enemies tripled.

3. On several occasions, some members of the Nsit Ibom Transition Committee have clearly told her that they came to enjoy money, not to do projects.

4. Desperation by a few Stakeholders to impose a Chairman on Nsit Ibom people by all means. They want to bring in a Chairman that they can control on how to share money and do away with projects.

5. They have seen that Hon. Otobong Aaron has been widely endorsed and accepted by the majority of Nsit Ibom people. They have resorted to using blackmail, petitions and cheap propaganda.

Hon. Otobong Aaron remains committed, focused and dedicated to serve Nsit Ibom people and soon, Nsit Ibom people will make their choice, not a few greedy and selfish stakeholders.

Nsit Ibom is bigger than one man!

No man can play God.

Let the lovers of good things breath don't oppressed them.

18/07/2024

NSIT IBOM FORMER COUNCILLORS ENDORSE Hon. Dcns. Otobong Aaron
..Praises her for changing the "mkpo ibaha" narrative in Nsit Ibom

The Chairmanship Ambition of the Incumbent Transition Committee Chairman of Nsit Ibom Local Government Area, Dcns. Oto Aaron is gaining momentum as more endorsements and support are trooping-in on a daily basis.

The most recent is the endorsement of Dcns. Aaron by former Councillors in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area, yesterday, Wednesday 18th, July 2024.

In an event that turned out to be a reunion of former councillors in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area, who served from 1999 till date, the former councillors sang praises of the achievements of Hon. Otobong Aaron, in one accord and declared that there would be no better choice for Nsit Ibom Local Government Area in the upcoming Local Government Election than Hon. Dcns. Otobong Aaron.

Setting the tone, the former Vice Chairman of Nsit Ibom Local Government Area and former Councillor representing Mbiaso 2, Rt. Hon. Ubong Ekong expressed the satisfaction of the former Councillors Forum with the leadership of Dcns. Otobong Aaron, which he described as the best in the history of Nsit Ibom Local Government Area.

"When we heard about all that you have done, we embarked on an independent on-the-spot assessment of the projects and we discovered that there are all true, so we decided to come and appreciate you, and also declare our total support for your Chairmanship ambition"

"I was Vice Chairman of Council when the Administrative Block projects commenced but was later abandoned by subsequent leaderships. I am sincerely happy to see that you have completed that project" Rt. Hon. Ekong added.

The Pioneer Leader of Nsit Ibom Legislative Council, Hon. Nsikan D. Umoh described Dcns. Otobong Aaron as a leader with striking qualities.

"I have seen striking qualities in you. Your performance is top-notch. 1 have not only heard, but i have seen all that you have done within this short period of time. From the completion of the abandoned Administrative Complex, building of a 2-bedroom bungalow for a widow in Ikot Obio Etan, empowerments, grading of roads, and lots more.

He also lauded Dcns. Aaron for carrying the people of Nsit Ibom along in her administration.

"The summary of all you have done is good governance, and this is the kind of leader Nsit Ibom want. Personally, I have accessed you and declared my support for your Chairmanship ambition"

A former leader of the Nsit Ibom Legislative Council who represented Asang IV, Hon. Emmanuel Jim stated that Dcns. Otobong Aaron has succeeded in changing the narrative of "mkpo ibaha" in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area.

He lauded Dcns. Otobong Aaron for putting Nsit Ibom Local Government Area on the spotlight and for making the people at the grassroots feel the impacts of governance.

Another former leader of Nsit Ibom Legislative Council who represented Asang III, Hon. Imo Udo thanked Dcns. Otobong Aaron for making Nsit Ibom to be a reference point for good leadership and rural development.

She lauded Dcns. Aaron for the development she has brought to Nsit Ibom. Notably, the demonstration farm which recently attracted the commendation of Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno to Nsit Ibom Local Government Area. A visit that shot Nsit Ibom and the vision-driven leadership of Oto Aaron to the world, earning her the ovation of sterling leadership.

He described her as 'eti mkpo urua' and declared his total support for her Chairmanship ambition in the upcoming Local Government Elections.

The immediate past Leader of Council, Hon. Ime Ekpo heralded Dcns. Otobong Aaron for her outstanding performance. He specifically thanked her for her efforts in ensuring food security in Nsit Ibom by facilitating the Nsit Ibom Demonstration Farm and training Nsit Ibom people.

"You have done well in the area of agricultural revolution, infrastructure, healthcare development, education, security, human capacity development, advancement of prosperity and community welfare. We need this kind of leadership to continue, and that is why we are here to declare our support for you to continue as our Chairman"

Scores of goodwill messages were also received from other former councillors in support of the endorsement of Dcns. Otobong Aaron.

Responding to the goodwill messages cm declaration of supports, the Nsit Ibom Chairmanship hopeful, Dcns. Otobong Aaron thanked the former Councillors for recognizing her efforts towards the development and growth of Nsit Ibom Local Government Area.

She appreciated the lawmakers for choosing to endorse her candidature and promised that she her mission is to further facilitate and implement more developmental strides in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area.

On her achievements, she reiterated that "leadership is all about putting smiles on the populace and making the people for feel the impacts of governance. That is my main focus and priority and i thank God for the grace to deliver."

The highpoint of the event was the endorsement of Dcns. Otobong Aaron by the forum ahead of the upcoming Local Government Elections. The motion was moved by Hon. Eyo Eyo Eshiet and seconded by Hon. Sunny Cosmos.

15/07/2024

LG ELECTION: NSIT IBOM PARAMOUNT RULER, TRC BACKS OTOBONG AARON

The Paramount Ruler of Nsit Ibom Local Government Area, HRM, Edidem Manasseh Simeon Akpan JP and members of Nsit Ibom Traditional Rulers Council has thrown their weights behind the Chairmanship Ambition of the incumbent Transition Committee Chairman of Nsit Ibom Local Government Area, Dcns. Otobong Aaron.

The declaration took place during a visit to the Palace of Edidem Manasseh Simeon Akpan at Obontong, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area on Friday 12th July, 2024.

Receiving the Nsit Ibom Transition Chairman, the Paramount Ruler of Nsit Ibom, HRM. Edidem Manasseh Simeon Akpan JP, who was represented by his Wife, Obonganwan Ofonime Manasseh Akpan thanked Dcns. Otobong Aaron for honoring their invitation.

He stated that the Royal Stool resolved to invite Dcns. Otobong Aaron for Royal Blessings ahead of the upcoming Local Government Elections, because they were all impressed with the facelift that she has given to Nsit Ibom Local Government Area through her effective and impactful leadership.

While reiterating the commitment of the Traditional Stool in partnering with leaders to attract development to Nsit Ibom Local Government Area, Edidem Manasseh Akpan lauded the Nsit Ibom Transition Chairman for the healthy collaboration between the Traditional Rulers Council and Nsit Ibom Local Government Council in fostering the development and growth of Nsit Ibom Local Government Area.

Edidem Manasseh Akpan therefore pronounced that himself and the entire members of the Traditional Rulers Council, which comprises of all the village heads of the forty-nine (49) villages in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area are in full support of her Chairmanship Ambition.

"Your good works have shown that you are the best leader for Nsit Ibom. The Traditional Stool is solidly behind you. As you embark on this journey, may God guide, protect and grant you victory in Jesus Name" Edidem Manasseh declared.

In her address, the Chairmanship hopeful and Transition Chairman of Nsit Ibom Local Government Area, Dcns. Otobong Aaron thanked the Paramount Ruler and members of the Traditional Rulers Council for recognizing her achievements and inviting her to the Palace, to receive Royal Blessings ahead of the upcoming Local Government Elections. A gesture which she described as a great honor and rare privilege.

While highlighting her achievements in the last eleven (11) months, Hon. Aaron stated that her aim and priority in governance is to ensure that the people at the grassroots feel the impacts of democracy and that; she have been able to achieve within a short period of time.

Dcns. Aaron stated that since she took over the helm of affairs, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area has been on the spotlightt in terms of projects, human capital development, infrastructure and agriculture; which has attracted the visitations from the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno and the Wife of the Governor, Her Excellency, Mrs. Patience Umo Eno to Nsit Ibom Local Government Area.

Goodwill messages were received from the former Speaker of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and current SUBEB Chairman, Rt. Hon. Anietie Etuk, Chairman of Nsit Ibom Palace Council, Eteidung Udeme Isaac, as well as Eteidung Anyangabasi Thomas and Eteidung Ezekiel Benson, who all heralded Dcns. Otobong Aaron for the impactful leadership she has brought to Nsit Ibom Local Government Area and pledged their total support towarrds her Chairmanship ambition.

Highlight of the event was a session of prayers for the Nsit Ibom Chairmanship hopeful, Dcns. Otobong Aaron.

12/11/2022

EDYSON ATTENDS BURIAL OF LATE MADAM ALICE EDET JOHN IN NSIT ATAI LGA

~~ condoles with Member, Mr. Gprince Jonah on the demise of His Grandmother.

By Comr. Major

Yesterday, November 11, 2022, in Ikot Uyo Nsit, Nsit Atai Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Members of Edna Daniel Solidarity Network (EDYSON) attended a funeral in honour of Late Madam Alice Edet John–maternal Grandmother of Mr. Gprince Jonah.

In a Biography earlier read by the deceased Grandchild–Gprince, Late Mama Akpan Kufre who died at the ripe old age of 92 was captured as "a devoted Member of the body of Christ, Farmer, Trader and a fervent Society Supporter who touched many lives during Her sojourn on Earth and left behind indelible legacies on the sands of time."

While signing a Letter of condolence earlier sent to Mr. Gprince by EDYSON, the Principal of the organization, Lady (Mrs.) Edna Edwin Daniel enjoined the bereaved "to take solace in the fact that the deceased lived a fulfilled life."

Earlier, the Group Members prayed God to grant the deceased eternal rest, and also give the Family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Mr. Gprince in response, appreciated the Principal of EDYSON, Lady (Mrs.) Edna Edwin Daniel popularly known as General, for Her support and thoughts during bereavement and by extension, Her group (EDYSON), for honouring His invitation, prayed God to reward them copiously.

The funeral which was conducted by The Apostolic Church, Ikot Ikot, Uyo Assembly, Ikot Abiyan District, Ndisiak Area, Uyo Field was held at Government Primary School, Ikot Uyo Nsit in Nsit Atai Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

Edna Daniel solidarity network (EDYSON) is a platform which is entrusted with heterogeneities of both social and political purposes. Her slogan is: In Christ alone; We are stronger together!

Adieu, Mama Akpan Kufre!

Ibom-Ink Media Outlet

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