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Ibom News Bank, Uyo (2025)

22/08/2025

IT'S YOUR BIRTHDAY!

You are a quintessential leader whose sterling qualities inspire and earn the admiration of everyone around you.

You are a father, husband, community builder, seasoned politician, philanthropist, and a legal luminary of great repute. You are all these things and more.

As we commemorate your birthday in 2025, we pray for abundant blessings upon you and your family.

May you continue to prosper in health, wealth, and wisdom as you impact more lives and light the path for all who cross yours.

Happy Birthday to our 'Utenghe', Ibiono Ibom!

Warm Wishes,

The Media Team,
Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency.

20/08/2025

WORLD HUMANITARIAN DAY: HON. IBANGA EXTENDS SUPPORT TO DISTRESSED FAMILY IN UYO

To commemorate the World Humanitarian Day, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Hon. Emem Ibanga , has assisted a distressed family at Afaha Idoro Oku, Uyo Local Government Area, in fulfilment of the promise she made to them.

Expressing delight and satisfaction with the transformation witnessed since her last intervention, when her attention was drawn to the family’s plight through a viral video online, Hon. Ibanga on Tuesday, August 19, during the visit, presented household items including mattress, pillows, blinds, sofa, table, solar light, and food supplies to the family for immediate relief.

Additionally, she provided commodities such as rice, beans, and garri as business start-up support, to enable the family engage in petty trading for sustainable livelihood.

Considering the health condition of Master Wisdom's grandmother, the Commissioner explained that the business support would greatly cushion the family’s burden, especially as the family, according to her, resides in a bustling environment where petty trading is viable and would serve as a steady source of livelihood.

The Humanitarian boss, emphasized that the gesture aligns with the vision of Governor Umo Eno, who has consistently encouraged citizens to 'Arise' by engaging in productive ventures, creating sustainable livelihoods and embracing agriculture as a pathway to self-reliance and improved living conditions.

She further highlighted the need for the children to return to school, stressing that education remains critical to the shaping of their future.

While appreciating Mr. Udo Iwat of Udo Iwat Comedy for drawing public attention to the family’s plight, Hon. Ibanga assured that the ministry would continue to provide additional support to strengthen the family’s recovery.

She further expressed appreciation to all individuals and groups who contributed in one way or another towards assisting the family.

In her remarks, Mrs. Aniema Etim, grandmother of Master Wisdom, expressed gratitude to God, the Governor, and the ministry for remembering her family. She offered heartfelt prayers for the success of Governor Umo Eno’s administration and the continuous growth of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.

Shortly after the visit, the Humanitarian team proceeded to Archbishop Usanga International Schools at Idoro, to make enquiries regarding the enrollment of the children.

The visit also had in attendance the Special Assistant to the Governor on Entrepreneurial Development, Mrs. Meflyn Anwana.

Information/PR Unit
Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs
August 19, 2025

20/08/2025

ABAK/ETIM EKPO/IKA REPS IDENTIFIES WITH OBO EKPO MARKET WOMEN
..Promises Business Grants to Support Traders

The Member representing Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency, Hon. Clement Jimbo, has reaffirmed his commitment to grassroots empowerment by identifying with the women of Obo Ekpo Market in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area.

Speaking on his behalf during a visit to the market on Wednesday, August 10, 2025, Engr. Aniekan Anomkpoinam and Hon.Uyoata Essien conveyed Jimbo’s goodwill and appreciation to the market women for their consistent support.

Essien highlighted several projects initiated and completed by the federal lawmaker across the constituency, including electrification projects, Solar water project, road grading, and educational support, among others.
He announced Jimbo’s plan to empower the market women with business grants to help scale their businesses and boost their profitability, fulfilling his campaign promise to prioritize the grassroots.

Also speaking, Anomkpoinam assured the traders of Jimbo’s continued support, noting that the gesture was a response to the overwhelming support he received from the market community during the 2023 general elections. He encouraged them to remain steadfast in their backing of Jimbo for the continued growth and development of the Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency.

Responding on behalf of the women, Mrs Inemesit Anietie, described Obo Ekpo Market as the “vote basket” of the Area. They thanked the representative for acknowledging the market women and pledged their unwavering support as long as he continues to fulfill his promises.

©️ Ibom News Bank

08/08/2025

RT. HON. IME OKON: A QUIET FLAME OF HOPE IN PEOPLE’S DARKEST HOURS

“Good deeds should be done with intention, not for attention.” That anonymous quote rings true for a man whose kindness doesn’t make the news every day but changes lives every time.

For many people in Itu-Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. (Barr) Ime Bassey Okon is not just a politician. He is that one person who listens. Who shows up. Who gives without asking too many questions.

Yours truly, knows this first-hand. My sibling had been in pain for weeks. The kind that makes someone groan in their sleep. The kind that needs a hospital visit, not prayers alone, but money was the problem. And like many in similar situations, I had exhausted her options.

I didn’t know where to turn. No budget in sight, no savings tucked away, just my phone and a fragile sliver of hope. I typed a message to Rt. Hon. (Barr) Ime Bassey Okon. I had heard of his kindness but wasn’t sure if this was something he would respond to.

“Good evening, Sir …” I sent the message anyway.

To my surprise, his response came swiftly.

"Very sorry about your sibling’s health challenge. Should reach you latest Wednesday."

And on Wednesday, as promised, my phone buzzed again: "Please send me your account details."

The alert followed. I stood in disbelief, tears in my eyes. The money was enough for the much-needed tests. It was not just about the money. It was proof that someone cared. And that person was Rt. Hon. (Barr) Ime Bassey Okon.

But my story is not the only one.

There is also Giver Utibe Effiong, a student of Electrical Engineering at Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, Ikot Ekpene. A fire incident recently left him homeless. Everything he had burnt to ashes.

Giver didn’t call Rt. Hon. Ime Okon, but somehow, the news reached him.

On Monday, August 4, 2025, the Lawmaker sent a team led by the Chairman, Itu-Ibiono Ibom Advisory Councill, Comrade Godwin Mbeke to visit Giver. They didn’t go empty-handed. A support package was handed over to help him start again. The Itu-Ibiono Ibom Federal Lawmaker didn’t just send help. He sent encouragement.

In his reaction, the student, Giver Utibe Effiong, expressed happiness over the visit and appreciated Hon. Okon for the timely help and always being available to solve students' needs. He promised to maximise the support package so it could help him focus on his academic pursuit.

These stories are just a few among many. From helping strangers with medical bills to restoring hope to students — his actions speak louder than any campaign speech.

In his first term in office as a Federal Lawmaker representing Itu-Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Ime Bassey Okon has shown that true leadership begins with the heart. He may not be everywhere on the news. But in the hearts of those he has helped, Rt. Hon. Ime Okon is the quiet hero who allows humanity to shine through him.

©️ Itoro-Etas Iniobong

07/08/2025

IME OKON APPLAUDS COMMISSIONING OF 100-BED MOTHER AND CHILD HOSPITAL ..Seeks General Hospital in Ibiono Ibom

The Member representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. (Barr) Ime Bassey Okon, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, for the collaborative efforts in delivering a 100-bed Renewed Hope Mother and Child Specialist Hospital to the people of Ibiono Ibom.

The federal lawmaker, who joined other dignitaries at the official commissioning of the world-class facility in Oko Ita on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, described the project as a landmark intervention in the area of healthcare delivery, bringing long-awaited relief to thousands of families in the federal constituency.

Barr. Okon, while addressing the gathering, expressed deep appreciation for the strategic partnership between the Federal Government and Akwa Ibom State Government that birthed the hospital, which he described as a significant milestone in actualizing Sustainable Development Goal 3—Good Health and Well-being.

“For over 30 years, Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area had no government-owned hospital of this standard. This specialist hospital is, without doubt, a life-saving intervention. I sincerely thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Umo Eno for this gift to our people,” he stated.

He however emphasized that while the new facility is a welcome development, it must be complemented with a full-fledged General Hospital to serve the broader population of the area and strengthen the region’s primary and secondary healthcare systems.

“As a representative of the people, I passionately appeal to both the Federal and State governments to consider the urgent establishment of a General Hospital in Ibiono Ibom. This will further consolidate on today’s milestone and ensure that our people enjoy access to comprehensive healthcare,” Okon added.

Commissioning the project, the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, who represented the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, lauded the facility as a key driver in improving maternal and child health and a clear demonstration of the government’s Arise Agenda in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the SDGs.

Also speaking at the ceremony, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to extend access to quality healthcare to rural communities. She described the Ibiono Ibom project as one of several flagship health interventions aimed at bridging health infrastructure gaps nationwide.

Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekemini John, who conducted a tour of the facility, highlighted the hospital’s state-of-the-art medical technology tailored for maternal and pediatric care. He reiterated that the hospital is a response to the region’s challenges with maternal and infant mortality.

The Chairman of Ibiono Ibom Local Government Council, Rt. Hon. Asuakak Umoh, in his remarks, appreciated the work, noting the historic impact, and describing the facility as first ever since the creation of Ibiono Ibom.

Other dignitaries at the event included Senator Ekong Sampson, Senator Ita Enang, Engr. Mohammed Bala Saulawa (Secretary of Programmes, OSSAP-SDGs), Hon. Moses Essien (Chairman, House Committee on Health, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly), and several officials from federal and state health agencies.

©️ Media/Publicity Unit,
Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency,
House of Representatives,
National Assembly, Abuja.

05/08/2025

IME OKON OFFERS LIFELINE TO STUDENT WHO LOST HOME IN FIRE

The Member representing Itu-Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Ime Bassey Okon has offered succour to one of his constituents involved in a fire incident that rendered him homeless.

The Federal Lawmaker paid a visit to the student, Giver Utibe Effiong, who is studying Electrical Engineering in Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic on Monday, August 4, 2025.

During the visit, Hon. Okon sympathised with the student over the loss. He, however, appreciated God that no life was lost. The Lawmaker encouraged the student to be courageous and not be distracted in his educational pursuit by the event. That with time, he will recover the lost items.

Representing the Lawmaker, the Chairman of Itu-Ibiono Ibom Advisory Council, Comrade Godwin Mbeke handed over a support package to the victim of the fire incident to help assuage the effect of the inferno.

In his reaction, the student, Giver Utibe Effiong, expressed happiness over the visit and appreciated Hon. Okon for the timely help and always being available to solve students' needs. He promised to maximize the support package so it could help him focus on his academic pursuit.

Others who joined the visit were Prince Asanga - International President, Ibiono Ibom Youth for Democracy and Development; Comrade Moses Inyang - Worldwide President, National Association of Itu Students; and other student leaders.

©️ Media/Publicity Unit,
Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency,
House of Representatives,
National Assembly, Abuja.

03/08/2025

Ime Okon Hails Appointment of Prof. Otoabasi Etim Akpan as Acting Vice Chancellor of AKSU

The Member representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. (Barr.) Ime Bassey Okon, has congratulated Professor Otoabasi Etim Akpan on his appointment as the Acting Vice Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU), describing it as a meritorious and inspiring development for the institution and the entire federal constituency.

In a congratulatory message, the federal lawmaker lauded Prof. Otoabasi Akpan’s years of distinguished service in academia, stating that the elevation reflects the university’s confidence in his leadership capacity, integrity, and scholarly contributions.

“Your elevation to this esteemed position is a glowing testament to your unwavering commitment to academic excellence, institutional growth, and the advancement of scholarship,” the lawmaker stated.

Describing the professor’s appointment as a source of pride to the people of Itu/Ibiono Ibom, Barr. Ime Okon expressed confidence that the new Acting Vice Chancellor will bring visionary leadership and transformative ideas to AKSU.

“As a proud son of Itu/Ibiono Ibom, your achievement brings immense pride to our federal constituency and offers inspired confidence in the future of tertiary education in Akwa Ibom State,” he said.

He further assured Prof. Otoabasi Akpan of his full support in the discharge of his new responsibilities, noting that the university, under his leadership, is poised to attain new academic milestones and global relevance.

“Please be assured of my full support and partnership as you take on this new assignment. I wish you wisdom, strength, and grace as you lead the university to greater heights,” the statement added.

©️ Media/Publicity Unit,
Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency,
House of Representatives,
National Assembly, Abuja.

03/08/2025

Hon. Ime Okon Congratulates Akwa Ibom NUJ 13th Chairman, Pledges Continued Support for Journalists

The Member Representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Hon. (Barr.) Ime Bassey Okon, has felicitated with Comrade Nsibiet John on his emergence as the 13th Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council.

In a congratulatory message, the Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs, described the election as a step forward for the journalism profession in the state, applauding members of the Union for a peaceful and orderly electoral process.

He noted that the choice of Comrade John, a thoroughbred journalist and publisher of The Ink Newspaper, reflects the collective confidence of media professionals in his leadership capacity.

He said: “As someone who understands the weight of responsibility that comes with leadership, I believe my brother, Comrade John, will unite the Union and raise the bar of professionalism.”

The law luminary urged the new NUJ Chairman to build on the gains recorded by his predecessors, foster unity, and drive innovation that will reposition the Council for greater impact.

He also extended warm wishes to other newly elected members of the State Executive Council, calling on all members of the Union to rally behind the new leadership for the collective progress of the journalism profession in the state.

Hon. Okon used the opportunity to commend the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D, for his unprecedented support to the outgone State Working Committee of the Union under the leadership of Comrade Amos Etuk. He specifically appreciated the Governor for presenting brand-new vehicles to the outgone officials and for appointing Comrade Etuk as the Senior Special Assistant on Local Media.

According to him, such gestures not only encourage excellence in media practice but also reinforce the administration's recognition of the media as a key partner in state development.

The federal lawmaker pledged to keep working with the media to promote good governance and provide effective representation that will bring more development to the people of Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency.

©️ Media/Publicity Unit,
Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency,
House of Representatives,
National Assembly, Abuja.

01/08/2025

𝗙𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗟𝗮𝘄𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿 𝗜𝗺𝗲 𝗢𝗸𝗼𝗻 𝗙𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝗸𝘂 𝗜𝗯𝗼𝗺 𝗜𝗯𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗼 𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝗠𝗜 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

The Member representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. (Barr) Ime Bassey Okon, has extended warm felicitations to 𝗛𝗶𝘀 𝗘𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗡𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘆𝗶𝗻 (𝗗𝗿) 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗺𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲𝗹 𝗘𝘁𝘂𝗸, 𝗝𝗣, 𝗖𝗙𝗥, on his official installation as the 4th Grand Patron of Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio.

In a goodwill message issued on Friday, Hon. Okon, who is also the Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Inter-Governmental Affairs, described the Oku Ibom Ibibio and President General of the Akwa Ibom State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers as a beacon of unity and a symbol of cultural pride whose years of service have continued to uplift the Ibibio identity.

The Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, noted that the selection of the revered monarch by Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio as its Grand Patron is both timely and merited, adding that it resonates with the monarch's track record of inclusive leadership, dignity and wise counsel.

According to him, “This recognition is not only a celebration of a royal institution but an affirmation of the enduring values of service, stability and integrity that His Eminence embodies. His stewardship has remained a source of strength and continuity for our people.”

Okon, who holds numerous distinguished traditional titles in recognition of his contributions to community development, lauded the Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio for honouring the royal father in a manner befitting his stature, saying the development would further strengthen the bond between the cultural institution and the younger generation.

While congratulating the Oku Ibom Ibibio on this latest honour, he expressed hope that the Grand Patron’s role would further deepen harmony, mutual respect and progress, not just among indigenes of the 4th largest ethnic group but across the Country.

25/07/2025

IBIONO IBOM: APC CHAPTER CHAIRMAN APPLAUDS GOV ENO'S DEVELOPMENT STRIDES

As Governor Umo Eno continues to serve with distinction through his increasing identification and ex*****on of pro people and development centred projects across the state, Mr Umoh Ekop the All Progressives Congress (APC) party Chapter Chairman for Ibiono Ibom, has applauded the governor's brilliant strides in bringing development closer to the people.

Reacting to the governor's flag off for the commencement of earth works on the construction of Ukpakon Okpoto Ikpanya Road, which links the people of Ibiono Ibom with their Ini Local Government neighbours, Mr Umoh Ekop said the people of Ikpanya and other benefiting communities have never had it so good, despite years of bitter experiences with successive political administrations in the state. He added that with this development, Governor Umo Eno has scored and soared so high in the minds of the people.

Commending Dr Umo Eno for connecting Ikpanya people and giving them a sense of belonging in the governance space of the state, Umoh Ekop said the timely initiative would not only bridge the benefiting communities with the pace of development identified with the state but would also contribute to accelerating the local commerce and economy of the impacted communities.

Praising the state governor for remarkably stepping in to lift the people from the precarious and difficult conditions they were hitherto experiencing, Mr Umoh Ekop said the poor road network situation had rendered the communities inaccessible and left their local produce and products adversely exploited due to lack of access to city and urban markets.

Stressing that the development steps undertaken by Dr Umo Eno as governor would not only boost growth, he added that they would meaningfully enhance development and services, safeguard the welfare of citizens, and also facilitate easy investments and trade in the impacted areas.

In appreciation of the governor's effort, the Ibiono Ibom Chapter Chairman of the ruling party assured that Ibiono Ibom people, besides fully and effectively supporting the governor in his second term bid, would massively rally round and contribute immensely to meeting the increasing margins of success associated with the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno.

14/07/2025

IME OKON AND THE STUDENT BODY: A SUSTAINED ATTENTION

Public service is about giving back to the people. The educational support style of leadership is an endearing approach that simply indicates the attention given to the most important sector for development to thrive, education!

Against the naysayers' views, I have to point out a part of the whole that I have carefully observed since Okon's early days in parliament.

Rt. Hon Ime Okon is one of the best in this regard, not because he speaks louder than others, but because of his passion for education and the encouragement over time.

From his earliest days in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly through to his present position as the Federal House Member for Itu/Ibiono Ibom, one thing has remained constant, his deliberate attention to students.

Is it a coincidence that students remember him fondly? It is not by accident that he was once tagged as the most friendly member by the students. From the start, supporting and encouraging students as they pursue their goals has been his hobby.

While pondering on why he gives attention to students, Ime Okon affirmed that students are the future, the seedbed of transformation, and the group he finds hard to sideline.

Notable example of Okon's passion towards education is the support he gave to law students. Last year, he awarded grants to 18 law school students, totalling N3.6 million. Also, it is worthy to recall that recently, over 300 students benefitted from the Educational Support/Bursary Award event. Then, over the years as far back as 2012, Okon consistently for 7 years sponsored quiz competitions for nursery, primary, and junior secondary school pupils, both in public and private schools, for academic improvement.

His passion for education is not just visible. It is exemplary. Over 87 students from Ibiono Ibom studying in tertiary institutions across the country benefited from his financial assistance within the eight years he served in the State House of Assembly. This was in addition to the millions spent on prizes for winners of the quiz competitions.

I remember asking him about his plans for student support, particularly scholarships. His response was calm but firm: “I have plans for everyone, and the students are not exempted.” That statement was not just a promise. It was a reminder of the path he has always walked.

If we are to measure, can we deny that students have been among the greatest beneficiaries of his leadership from his early days?

In a world where attention fades quickly and gestures are often for public applause, Ime Okon's sustained attention to students stands unique and rare.

And in that rarity lies the reason many continue to look up to him, not just as a politician, but as a quintessential leader whose focus and attention to education as boost its importance as the bedrock of development to any progressive society.

©️ Anamati Inyang

07/07/2025

REP. IME OKON - A PHILANTHROPIST IN ACTION

"I don't play sentimental politics, and I encourage good leadership. The students appreciate you, sir, and we want it to be on record today that for the past 10 years, Itu-Ibiono has not enjoyed bursary. Itu-Ibiono Ibom has not had a member who comes back and embraces the students. But today, you have done it. The Lord who gave you first-term will give you second-term." ~ Cmrd Otobong Esara, The immediate past student leader in Itu LGA speaking during the Educational Support/Bursary Award for Itu-Ibiono Ibom students.

Rep. Ime Okon, affectionately known as "Utenge-Ibiono" by his people, has been making waves with his philanthropic efforts as a lawmaker representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency in the National Assembly.

The lawmaker's commitment to giving back to his constituents is evident in his various initiatives, which have touched the lives of many. The above quotation is from one of the students leaders who expressed gratitude during the 1st batch of educational support/bursary award programme sponsored by the federal lawmaker few weeks ago.

According to the various testimonials from students of the federal constituency in higher institutions, bursary award was lacking for so many years. The recent by Rt. Hon. Ime Okon was a respite the students won't forget for a longer time. Aside from beating previous records, it happened at a time when many students were about losing hope on their educational pursuit due to financial constraint.

Hear another testimonial in one of the outings of the former Worldwide President, Otobong Esara, Itu, Akwa Ibom State on June 2, 2025,

"Ukeme Ndarake, a promising student facing the risk of dropping out due to financial constraints, received a lifeline when Mr. Esara brought his case to Hon. Okon’s attention. Moved by the student’s plight, Hon. Okon promptly settled the outstanding fees, ensuring that Ukeme’s education continues without interruption.

"This is not just financial aid. It’s a message of hope for many young people. We are grateful for leaders like Hon. Okon, who listens and acts with purpose,” Esara stated.

These and many more are gratitude encrafted in the hearts of men, which showcases the sterling qualities of Rt. Hon. Ime Okon.

This philanthropic attribute makes his touch with the people more impactful and timeless. And Itu-Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency needs a leader of this character and commitment to public service.

© *Itoro Etti*

Ibom News Bank

22/08/2025

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