Akwa Ibom Turns 39: UNN Alumni Celebrate State’s Growth and Call for Unity

The Alumni Association of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Uyo Branch, has sent congratulations to the people and government of Akwa Ibom State on the 39th anniversary of the state’s creation. They described the journey since 1987 as one filled with resilience, sacrifice, and development.

Akwa Ibom State was created on 23 September 1987 from what was then Cross River State by the military government of Ibrahim Babangida. This creation came after many years of demands by the people for a separate state.

The Akwa Ibom State Government is marking the anniversary by commissioning 39 projects across the state. These projects cover areas like roads, healthcare, education, aviation, and tourism. The commissioning will take place through September, with some projects already launched.

In a goodwill message on Wednesday, signed by its Branch President, Etefia Ekanem, and Secretary, Imo Abiaran, the alumni association said the anniversary is a time to celebrate the sacrifices of the state’s founding generation and the contributions of various leaders over the years.

The branch president, Mr Ekanem, is a law professor at the University of Uyo in Akwa Ibom State.

“We celebrate our dear Akwa Ibom State as she turns 39 today. We celebrate our remarkable journey, our collective victory on many battlefronts, the sacrifices of our forebears and leaders, and our uniqueness as a people created by God for greatness,” the association stated.

The association called Akwa Ibom a “blessed people,” pointing out the peace and security in the oil-rich state. They praised Governor Umo Eno, the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies for maintaining peace in the state.

The group noted that the security situation allows both residents and visitors to move freely around the state without fear of kidnapping or attacks by criminals. They also praised the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the Akwa Ibom people, as well as the warmth and community ties among residents.

The alumni association expressed pride in the number of its members who are part of Mr Eno’s administration. They mentioned Director General of Government Business, Assam Assam, SAN; Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Uko Udom, SAN; Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Eno Ibanga; and Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Offiong Samuel Offor.

The association highlighted the recognition given to other alumni serving in various roles in the administration, as well as those who served in past administrations and members working in the private sector.

Since it was created in 1987, Akwa Ibom has had military administrators and civilian governors. The state’s first civilian governor was Akpan Isemin, who served from 1992 until a military takeover in 1993. Since Nigeria returned to democracy in 1999, four elected governors have led the state: Victor Attah, Godswill Akpabio, Udom Emmanuel, and the current governor, Mr Eno.

In their anniversary message, the University of Nigeria Alumni Association urged the people of Akwa Ibom to renew their commitment to peace and unity.

“Let us continue to build an Akwa Ibom State that future generations will be proud of,” the association said.

They ended their message by wishing the people a happy 39th anniversary and praying for ongoing progress and development.

“God bless Akwa Ibom State,” the association concluded.