Ibom Telegraph

23/11/2025

ESSET SETS NOVEMBER 27 FOR MEGA EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMME, HIGHLIGHTS SCORECARD

By Eteobong Akpan

The member representing Uyo/Uruan/Nsit Atai/Ibesikpo Asutan Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Elder Mark Esset has fixed Thursday, November 27, 2025, for a Mega Town Hall Meeting/Constituency Briefing and Empowerment Programme scheduled to hold at the Ibom Hall Grounds, Uyo.

Addressing journalists during a media parley in Uyo on Saturday, Esset said the event will feature the distribution of cash grants, vehicles, mini buses, tricycles, deep freezers, sewing machines, generators, hair dryers and other livelihood-support tools to elders, women and youths across the 42 wards of the constituency.

He said the empowerment initiative aligns with his long-standing commitment to improving the socio-economic well-being of his constituents, recalling similar interventions during his tenure as Executive Chairman of Nsit Atai Local Government and later as a member of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.

Esset used the engagement to outline his legislative record, noting the sponsorship of key bills such as the Higher National Diploma Discrimination (Prohibition) Bill, 2023, and a constitutional alteration bill seeking increased revenue allocation to states through an amended derivation framework. He also pointed to motions he has championed on customs operations, petroleum sector irregularities, maritime academy expenditure, technical education infrastructure and the high cost of international flight fares.

As Chairman of the House Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Relations and a member of the African Parliamentary Union, Esset said he has represented Nigeria in several bilateral and multilateral engagements. He further disclosed his membership of strategic committees, including Finance, Health Institutions, Industry, Financial Crimes, Information, Justice, Public Accounts and Inter-Governmental Affairs.

On constituency development, the lawmaker said his efforts are driven by six core pillars: human capacity development, infrastructure, rural development, healthcare, education and employment facilitation. He revealed that more than 700 constituents have so far benefited from agricultural, artisanal, mining and business training programmes, with millions of naira disbursed as empowerment support.

Esset also listed ongoing and completed infrastructural interventions across the four LGAs, including road projects, street lighting, community centres and recreational facilities. He said 1,350 solar streetlights and several solar-powered boreholes have been installed in rural communities.

In the health sector, Esset reported thousands of consultations, surgeries, laboratory services and medication distributions recorded through free medical outreaches targeted at the elderly, pregnant women and persons with disabilities.

He added that classroom blocks have been constructed, renovated and furnished in several schools, while 234 students have received ₦100,000 each under his Educational Support Scheme. Additional school projects, he said, will commence in 2025.

The lawmaker further confirmed that he has facilitated employment opportunities for constituents in agencies including the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Federal College of Education Ididep, Federal Medical Centre Abakaliki and the College of Dental Technology and Therapy, Enugu.

Esset expressed appreciation to journalists for their support and urged sustained partnership as he continues to deliver “greater dividends of democracy” to the constituency.

23/11/2025

*NIPR A'IBOM CALLS FOR PARTNERSHIP WITH ICPC*

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, has called for partnership with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in Akwa Ibom State.

The call was made on Friday, during a Courtesy Visit to the Resident Anti-Corruption Commisioner, Mr. Baba Alaro Shuaib by the State Executive Council of NIPR led by her Chairman, Elder Dr. Manasseh Umoette at the ICPC office, Ewet Housing Estate, Uyo.

Dr. Umoette said the partnership is crucial in strengthening the collective efforts of both organizations, aimed at building a transparent, accountable and reputation-driven society.

While commending the ICPC for her unwavering efforts in fighting corruption, especially in preventing before crime festers, the NIPR Chairman sought stronger collaboration with the ICPC, especially in areas of public enlightenment and re-orientation of societal values.

He stressed that effective public enlightenment of value based messaging can significantly reduce corruption tendencies, and therefore called for synergy with the ICPC so as to deepen public understanding of the cost of corruption, promote behavioural change and inspire accountability, adding that it will enhance Nigeria's reputation globally.

Dr. Umoette hinted the ICPC on the Institute’s ongoing programmes such as the PR Clinic, public lectures, and community engagement sessions, which focuses on crises management, transparency and ethical communication. These, he said, forms the ethical backbone for a healthier communication environment that supports ethical conducts.

"Your office has been instrumental in promoting integrity and combating corruption within Akwa Ibom State, and we at the NIPR are proud to align with you in this noble duty. We believe that by combining your enforcement and preventive mechanisms with our strategic communication expertise, we can jointly contribute to rebuilding Nigeria’s battered image and nurturing a society built on transparency and trust. We look forward to a long-term, result-oriented partnership that will enhance public confidence and reinforce the national drive towards a corruption-free Nigeria", Dr. Umoette avered.

Responding, the Resident Anti-Corruption Commisioner, Mr. Baba Alaro Shuaib said the ICPC has been in existence for twenty five (25) years in the country, adding that her mandate is enshrined in the Section 6, Sub Sections A to F of the ICPC Act.

He stressed that the ICPC is key on prevention of corruption through public enlightenment and education, in line with the popular adage that says, "prevention, is better than cure".

While revealing that ICPC has infused the teaching of core values of integrity, honesty, accountability amongst others in schools curriculum since 2008, the Resident Anti-Corruption Commisioner maintained that synergy with the NIPR is critical, especially in the area of public enlightenment.

Mr. Baba Alaro Shuaib disclosed that the ICPC engages youths in Secondary Schools through Students Anti Corruption Clubs and those in Universities through Students Anti Corruption Vanguard.

He maintained that the ICPC engages in monitoring of procurement, recruitment and also investigate sexual harassments through her twenty one (21) State offices within the country.

The Courtesy Visit which featured presentation of momentos and group photographs had the Akwa Ibom State Chairman of NIPR, Elder Dr. Manasseh Umoette; Secretary, Unyimeobong Ikpe; Financial Secretary, Dr. Uduak Iwok; Auditor, Josephine Ekpa and Public Relations Executive, Comrade Effanga Usen and Management Staff of the ICPC in attendance.

Public Relations Unit
Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR)
Akwa Ibom State Chapter

21/11/2025

‼️𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆:
𝐔𝐘𝐎 𝐅𝐄𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐋 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐓𝐔𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐘 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐇𝐎𝐋𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐀𝐃𝐎𝐏𝐓 𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐊 𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐓 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐒𝐄𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐃 𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐌

• 𝐀𝐬 𝐋𝐚𝐰𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬, 𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟕

Stakeholders of Uyo/Uruan/Nsit Atai/Ibesikpo Asutan Federal Constituency on Friday adopted Hon. Mark Esset for a second term in the House of Representatives. The endorsement was made at a well-attended meeting held at his Uyo residence, where he briefed stakeholders from the forty-two wards of the four local government areas on his stewardship in the last two years.

The highpoint came when the member representing Uyo State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Uwemedimo Asuquo, speaking on behalf of all lawmakers from the four LGAs, moved a formal motion endorsing Hon. Esset for another term. He said the stakeholders and all who understand parliamentary work have followed his performance closely and noted that Hon. Esset has exceeded expectations. The motion was immediately seconded by the member for Uruan State Constituency, Hon. Dr. Itorobong Etim, and accepted by the presiding officer, Prince Aniefiok Attah, alongside all stakeholders present.

The meeting drew serving and former political office holders across the constituency. Chairman of the Central Planning Committee of Hon Mark Esset Empowerment Programme, Hon. Monday Eyo, said the decision to stand by Hon. Esset was based on clear evidence of delivery across the core responsibilities of a federal lawmaker. He commended him for combining legislation, oversight, and constituency engagement in a manner rarely seen, adding that many representatives only return after four years, while Hon. Esset has maintained regular briefings.

In his presentation, Hon. Esset who was flanked by his wife Dr Mrs Dorcas Esset, said, respect for stakeholders remains central to his politics, noting that the meeting was not an electoral gathering but an accountability session. He stressed that representation is not measured only by the number of motions or bills but by constant engagement with those who entrusted him with their mandate. He reminded aspirants that stakeholders must not be remembered only during election periods.

He outlined projects across the federal constituency, awaiting inauguration from Monday, stating that each of the four LGAs and all forty-two wards already have tangible gains from his two years in office. In Ibesikpo Asutan, he listed classroom blocks in Ikot Akpaso and a motorised water project in Ikot Ikan. In Nsit Atai, he highlighted projects and other interventions in Iwok and Ibakan. In Uruan, he noted an ongoing water project in Eman Ukpa, a remote community. In Uyo, he mentioned work on Ifa Atai Street, Atakpo Lane and related water infrastructure. He added that streetlights have been installed across the constituency to improve security.

On human capacity development, Hon. Esset said two hundred and forty (240) students in tertiary institutions received grants of one hundred thousand naira (N100,000) each, describing it as the highest scholarship support ever extended to indigent students in the constituency. He said over three hundred women were supported with one hundred thousand naira each to grow their small businesses.

The lawmaker who chairs House Committee on Inter parliamentary Affairs, recalled that his five-day free medical and surgical outreaches were held in all four LGAs and attended by over one thousand five hundred patients per LGA. He disclosed that despite delays in the release of constituency funds at the national Assembly, he remained committed to supporting those in need.

He announced that his Mother of all empowerment programmes, scheduled for November 27, will feature cash support exceeding one hundred and fifty million naira, distribution of minibuses, new cars, tricycles, cargo tricycles and motorcycles, with ten million naira allocated per ward.

Responding, the former Chairman, Uyo Local Government, Rt Hon (Otuekong) Ekerete Ekpenyong, praised the lawmaker for being a firm, independent voice and urged him to fix a reasonable number of terms to guide his political journey, while Prof. Trenchard Ibia from Nsit Atai, a former Commissioner for Agriculture, expressed satisfaction that Hon. Esset has not disappointed the other LGAs.

A political leader from Ibesikpo Asutan, Ofonmbuk Ukim, described the lawmaker as strong, effective and deserving of an assured return. Speaking on behalf of Women leaders. Obonganwan Dora Ebong endorsed the lawmaker for a second term even as the former lawmaker representing Uruan, Hon. Dr. Kufre Etuk, said effective representation is rooted in consistent attention to elders, youths and families and thank Hon Esset.

Chairman of Uruan Local Government, Surveyor Iniobong Ekpeyong, who also spoke on behalf of the Senator representing Uyo Senatorial District, pledged full support for the legislator.

Meanwhile, with the adoption formalised, the stakeholders of the 4 Local Government Areas reiterated that the endorsement reflected the collective conviction of the political leadership of the constituency that Hon. Mark Esset has earned another term through visible work, regular engagement and positive impact.

20/11/2025

*A'IBOM NIPR CALLS FOR PARTNERSHIP, SYNERGY WITH DSS*

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Akwa Ibom State Chapter has called for partnership and synergy with the Department of State Services (DSS), Akwa Ibom State Command.

The call was made recently by the Executive of the NIPR, led by her Chairman, Elder Dr. Manasseh Umoette, during a Courtesy Visit to the State Director of Security, Mr. Adedoyin Adetuberu in his office, Nsikak Eduok Avenue, Uyo.

Speaking during the visit, the Akwa Ibom State Chapter NIPR Chairman, Elder Dr. Manasseh Umoette commended the DSS for her unwavering commitment to safeguarding peace in the State, stressing that the DSS which is known for her quiet industry and disciplined vigilance is one of the strong pillars upon which the peace of Akwa Ibom State rests.

"We are glad to be here, for this is a sanctuary where strategic calm is cultivated long before storms gather on the horizon", Umoette avered.

Dr. Umoette maintained that the State has enjoyed a remarkable reduction in crime and social tension, saying it is not the handiwork of chance, rather the product of disciplined intelligence, discreet operations and the unbroken resolve of the DSS.

He further avered that Public Relations Practitioners operate in a different but deeply connected space of perception, where words are her tools, reputation her terrain and public trust her ultimate pursuit. He added that while the DSS secures the State from physical threats, the NIPR shield the State from reputational landmines and the corrosive power of misinformation and stressed that both callings demand precision, restraint and foresight and therefore called for synergy between both organizations.

The State NIPR Chairman intimated the DSS that in line with her mandate, the NIPR has been running series of programmes designed to raise public awareness on responsible communication and reputation management, such as the PR Clinic which offers professional guidance to organisations and institutions; Public Lectures, hosted periodically which brings together scholars, practitioners and community members to reflect on issues affecting trust, identity, social harmony among others. He maintained that these programmes are the contributions of the NIPR to strengthen the intellectual and ethical foundations of public engagement in the State.

Elder Umoette said there is room for cross training and capacity development in areas of crises communication, public trust building and media handling.

In his words, "We see a fertile opportunity for partnership here. A coordinated strategic communication framework between the DSS and the NIPR can help curb rumour-mongering, correct misperceptions, and maintain public calm in moments of tension. The DSS provides the facts; we help distill them into messages that are timely, accurate, and reassuring. Together we can build a communication ecosystem that resists the toxins of misinformation, and to build a more secure and enlightened society".

In his response, the State Director of Security, Mr. Adedoyin Adetuberu, OON, PhD, fsi flanked by the Deputy Director of Security, Mr. Irokasi Ndudim and the Deputy Director of Operations, Mr. Hamisu Salisu noted that Akwa Ibom State has been a peaceful State and noted that it is compulsory to partner with the NIPR so as to have a synergy for the wellbeing of the State.

He avered that PR is a critical aspect of communication, because the capacity to project the right messages speaks to how successful every organization is, and that is why many countries invest heavily on communication strategy which PR is key.

Mr. Adetuberu hinted that the DSS is an intelligence Agency that works on information to build societal peace, harmony and general wellbeing and therefore stressed that partnership and synergy between both organizations is sacrosanct.

He further disclosed that the DSS in the State together with other security Agencies have been instrumental in advising the government, maintaining robust security engagements, sterming the tide of kidnappings amongst others.

He maintained that Akwa Ibom State is peaceful, the people are happier and the peacefulness of the State has resulted to more economic boom, increase of oil production close to 500,000 barrels daily.

He avered that the DSS is doing a lot to make the State more peaceful as the Yuletide season sets in, to secure citizens more, and also to acheive a peaceful campaigns and political activities in 2026.

He noted that the DSS engages in numerous oversight functions, aimed at making life easier for citizens, and assured NIPR of her commitment to strengthen and deepen partnership to continue to improve the wellbeing of citizens and residents of the State.

The Courtesy Visit which featured presentation of NIPR Journal to the State Director of Security and group photographs had the Akwa Ibom State Chairman of NIPR, Elder Dr. Manasseh Umoette; Secretary, Unyimeobong Ikpe; Assistant Secretary, Happiness Usoro; Treasurer, Edidiong Inyang; Financial Secretary, Dr. Uduak Iwok; Auditor, Josephine Ekpa and Public Relations Executive, Comrade Effanga Usen and Senior Officers of the DSS in attendance.

Public Relations Unit
Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR)
Akwa Ibom State Chapter

20/11/2025

Press Release

Tinubu’s Trip Cancellation: An Exemplar of Tokenism

The announcement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cancellation of his planned trip to South Africa and Angola, stands as the latest and boldest example of tokenism. While the decision may appear to be in sympathy with the kidnapping of the Maga schoolgirls and the escalating insecurity across the country, particularly in northern Nigeria, it remains a mere perfunctory gesture and nothing more.

If the APC-led Presidency disagrees with this position, then we demand that President Tinubu temporarily relocate to Kebbi State and other theatres of armed conflict in Northern Nigeria. Such a move will not only challenge the security agencies to act more decisively in ending the ongoing carnage, but will also boost the morale of the troops on the frontlines. As President and Commander-in-Chief, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, must not recline in the comfort of the Presidential Villa at a time when 25 schoolgirls have been abducted and their whereabouts remain unknown. He must demonstrate leadership by leading from the front, as true leaders do in moments of grave national challenge.

The recent attacks in Kwara State further support our assertion that insecurity and fear have become the daily lived experience and new reality of Nigerians across the country. Yet the APC-led administration continues to issue outright denials, rationalised explanations, empty assurances, and other superficial gestures such as the President’s cancelled trip.

Without further strategic actions, this trip cancellation will amount to nothing more than another media stunt aimed at currying public favour and sympathy, rather than confronting the urgent task of securing lives and property across Nigeria. If this were a political crisis,(like the Rivers State case), President Tinubu would have deployed all strategies and resources, within and outside the law, to find a solution.

We hereby put the President and his administration on notice that Nigerians are tired of symbolic gestures such as sympathy statements and trip cancellations. What the nation urgently requires is decisive leadership, strategic action, and effective support for the security forces, especially those at the front lines, rather than cosmetic efforts designed to score political points.

The safety of Nigerians cannot be reduced to mere theatrics. Leadership must rise above optics and deliver tangible, consistent action that restores public confidence and protects lives and property. This situation demands seriousness, not symbolism. The Presidency must rise to the occasion or make way for those who can.

Signed:
Comrade Ini Ememobong , mnipr
National Publicity Secretary
20112025

20/11/2025

20/11/2025

Day 2 Speakers for Uyo Social Media Week

They’re seasoned professionals excelling in their respective fields. From 9:00 AM, get ready to tap into their wealth of experience, insights, and knowledge as they share practical strategies to elevate your digital journey.

Stay tuned. Day 2 is set to be impactful and inspiring.

18/11/2025

SPEAKERS AT THE

18/11/2025

UYO SOCIAL MEDIA CONFERENCE BEGINS TOMORROW

Amplifying Local Voices Through Digital Innovation: A Social Media Conference

The Conference of Online Publishers in Akwa Ibom State (COOPA) is excited to announce the official commencement of its maiden Social Media Week themed:
"Amplifying Local Voices through Digital Innovation".

According to Press Release signed by Mr. Utitofon Morgan Chancellor, COOPA and Mr. Darlington Udobong, Chairman, Planning Committee, the week-long event is a dynamic social media converge aimed at showcasing the power of digital storytelling and community engagement.

This innovative event brings together local influencers, content creators, and social media enthusiasts to share their experiences, ideas, and perspectives on leveraging digital platforms to drive social impact.

It is scheduled as follows:
Date: Wednesday, 19th - Friday, November 21st, 2025.

Time: 9:00am prompt
Venue: Ceedapeg Hotel, Uyo

Key highlights of the event will include keynotes, panel discussions on digital innovation and social change; workshops on content creation and social media strategy; networking opportunities with industry experts and like-minded individuals etc

Members of the media community and the public are invited to attend this event which promises to dive into the world of digital innovation, spark meaningful conversations, and as well shape the future of online discourse.

14/11/2025

It’s not just an event… it’s a VIBE!

Let’s hang out, mingle, and enjoy good energy at The Mixer this Sunday.

Time: 4pm
Venue: D’Angelo Café, Uyo
Date: 16th November

Come as you are. Leave inspired.

12/11/2025

HON. MARK ESSET: DELIVERING SERVICE, IMPACT, AND PARTNERSHIP THROUGH EFFECTIVE REPRESENTATION

As the Mark of Effective Representation continues to adorn the people of Uyo/Uruan/Nsit Atai/Ibesikpo Asutan Federal Constituency with democratic dividends and demonstrate purposeful legislative leadership through impactful lawmaking, motions, and partnerships, tales of development and improved livelihoods have become the order of the day.

In the area of lawmaking, which includes advocating for equity, development, and justice, Hon. Mark Esset has sponsored three strategic bills in the 10th House of Representatives. Each bill addresses vital socioeconomic concerns and promotes fairness across Nigeria’s governance and economic systems.

The “Higher National Diploma (HND) Discrimination (Prohibition) Bill, 2023” is a progressive piece of legislation that seeks to end the long-standing disparity between university degree holders and HND holders in public and private sector employment and career progression.

The “Bill to Increase the Percentage of Revenue from Natural Resources Shared to States Based on Derivative Principles” is designed to ensure fairer revenue allocation and empower resource-producing states with greater financial autonomy to drive local development.

Another key legislation is the “Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2024 (House Bill 1586),” which proposes constitutional reforms, deepened federalism, and enhanced institutional efficiency.

In driving national development and equity, Hon. Mark Esset has also moved three people-oriented motions that address pressing national issues, economic growth, and infrastructural development. One of such motions is the “Need to Stop the Diversion of Nigeria-Bound Cargoes to Neighbouring Countries and Decongest the Apapa and Tin Can Island Seaports.” The motion urged the Federal Government to develop alternative ports and improve logistics infrastructure to promote efficiency in maritime trade and boost national revenue.

Another motion, titled “Need to Renovate the Federal Science and Technical College, Ukana Offot, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, and Other Institutions for Technical and Vocational Education Across Nigeria,” called for urgent intervention to reposition technical education as a foundation for industrial growth and youth empowerment.

Through another motion, Hon. Esset also called for a “Review of International Flight Costs in Nigeria to bring them at par with other African Countries.” The motion highlighted the disparity in flight fares and advocated for fair pricing and policies that would make international travel more accessible and competitive for Nigerians.

Indeed, the Mark of Effective Representation has kept faith with his constituents by exemplifying service, impact, and partnership. His numerous interventions have clearly shown that effective representation is not about rhetoric but about action, accountability, and tangible results that touch lives and transform communities.

…the series continues.

10/11/2025

INFORMATION COMMISSIONER ENDORSES UYO SOCIAL MEDIA WEEK, PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR COOPA INITIATIVE

Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, has officially endorsed the 2025 edition of the Uyo Social Media Week, describing it as a laudable platform for promoting responsible digital engagement and advancing Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda through online communication.

The Commissioner gave the endorsement on Monday, November 10, 2025, when a delegation from the Conference of Online Publishers in Akwa Ibom State (COOPA), led by its Chancellor, Mr. Utitofon Morgan, paid him a courtesy visit in his office.

While commending COOPA for its consistent role in projecting the developmental strides of the present administration, Rt. Hon. Umanah assured the group of the Ministry’s support towards ensuring the successful hosting of the forthcoming Uyo Social Media Week, scheduled to hold from Wednesday, November 19 to Friday, November 21, 2025, at Ceedapeg Hotel, Uyo.

Earlier, the Chancellor of COOPA, Mr. Utitofon Morgan, said the visit was to formally brief the Commissioner on preparations for the event and to seek his endorsement and partnership. He noted that this year’s edition of the Social Media Week, with the theme “Discovery, Connect, Amplify,” would focus on strengthening collaboration between government institutions, the media, and citizens through responsible digital storytelling and content creation.

The Uyo Social Media Week 2025 is expected to attract media professionals, communication experts, online publishers, influencers, and content creators from within and outside Akwa Ibom State.

© Ministry of Information, Akwa Ibom State