IBIBIO LEADERS COMMUNIQUE 2023

IBIBIO ELDERS AND LEADERS OF SOCIO-CULTURAL GROUPS ISSUE COMMUNIQUE

::::: StandbyNews Online:::::

In a gathering held at Asan Ibibio on Sunday, September 24, 2023, marking the inauguration of the Akwa Ibom State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, the Elders of Ibibio Nation and Leaders of Ibibio socio-cultural organizations released the following communique:

His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, Executive Governor, of Akwa Ibom State.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, the Executive Governor, on the occasion of the 36th Anniversary of Akwa Ibom State.

Our gratitude goes to Governor Umo Eno for his approval of the Bill amending the Traditional Rulers Law, Cap.155, Laws of Akwa Ibom State, 2022. We also acknowledge the inauguration of His Eminence, Ntenyin (Dr.) Solomon D. Etuk (CFR) as the President-General of Akwa Ibom State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers and HRM, Odidem Bassey Etim Edet, as the Council’s Chairman as part of the 36th Anniversary celebrations.

We commend the Honourable Speaker, Rt. Hon. Udeme Ottong, and the Members of the 8th Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly for passing the Bill amending the Traditional Rulers Law, Cap. 155, Laws of Akwa Ibom State, 2022.
We firmly assert that this law is crucial for the comprehensive development, peace, stability, national recognition, and progress of Akwa Ibom State.
It is worth noting that other states in the Federation have successfully implemented similar traditional structures.

The meeting had the presence of distinguished elders and leaders from Ibibio socio-cultural organizations, including:

Dr. Asikpo Essienibok, chairman;
Otuekong Sunny Jackson Udoh,

Arc. Ekong Etuk, FNIA;
Prof. Etie Ben Akpan, Nsit Elders Council, Mboho Ndito Nsit;

Prof. Trenchard Ibia, Nsit Elders Council; Mboho Ndito Nsit

Prof. Etok Ekanem, Adaha Ibibio;

Ntisong Pius Okon, the Ntisong Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio IV;

Mkpisong Tony Okpon, Secretary-General of Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio;

The Chairman of Ibibio Elders Forum, Hon. (Dr.) Emmanuel Akpanobong;
Akparawa James Edet, International President, Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio;

Akparawa (Otuekong) Fiokidaha Umoh, Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio;

Engr. Emmanuel Akpan, President, Ibibio National Union;

Dr. Uduak Eshiet, the Chancellor, Ibibio Academic Roundtable;

Surv. Chris Ekpo, Secretary, Nsit Elders Council, Mboho Ndito Nsit; and

Pastor Ekpedeme Akpan.

Tagged TRC Law

IBIBIO LEADERS COMMUNIQUE 2023

Leaders and Elders of Ibibio Nation Issue Communique on Historic Akwa Ibom State Anniversary

In a gathering convened at Asan Ibibio on Sunday, September 24, 2023, to mark the inauguration of the Akwa Ibom State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, esteemed figures representing the Elders of Ibibio Nation and Leaders of Ibibio Socio-Cultural Organizations have issued a significant communique. Here are the key points:

Congratulations to His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, the Executive Governor, on the 36th Anniversary of Akwa Ibom State.
Gratitude extended to Governor Umo Eno for assenting to the Bill amending the Traditional Rulers Law, Cap.155, Laws of Akwa Ibom State, 2022. Also, acknowledgment of the installation of His Eminence, Ntenyin (Dr.) Solomon D. Etuk (CFR) as the President-General of Akwa Ibom State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers and HRM, Odidem Bassey Etim Edet, as the Chairman of the Council during the 36th Anniversary celebrations.
Commendation for the passage of the Bill for the amendment of the Traditional Rulers Law by the Honourable Speaker, Rt. Hon. Udeme Ottong, and Members of the 8th Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.
Emphasis on the importance of this law for the holistic development, peace, stability, national recognition, and advancement of Akwa Ibom State.
Recognition that other states in Nigeria have benefitted from similar traditional structures.

The gathering included prominent figures from Ibibio socio-cultural organizations, including Dr. Asikpo Essienibok, Otuekong Sunny Jackson Udoh, Arc. Ekong Etuk, Prof. Etie Ben Akpan, Prof. Trenchard Ibia, Prof. Etok Ekanem, Ntisong Pius Okon, Mkpisong Tony Okpon, Hon. (Dr.) Emmanuel Akpanobong, Akparawa James Edet, Akparawa (Otuekong) Fiokidaha Umoh, Engr. Emmanuel Akpan, Dr. Uduak Eshiet, Surv. Chris Ekpo, and Pastor Ekpedeme Akpan.

PRESS RELEASE

GLOWING TRIBUTE TO AN EXCEPTIONAL MOTHER OF THE NATION AT 63

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) heartily congratulates the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Distinguished Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on her 63rd birthday.

The National President of NAWOJ, Comrade Ladi Bala, in a congratulatory message describes the First Lady as a true mother of the nation, dogged and focused leader with exemplary qualities of advancing the cause of women and development in Nigeria.

On this special day, NAWOJ pays glowing tribute to a woman of substance with a heart of kindness and support system to the family and country as a whole.

As the First Lady, she has demonstrated commitment towards advancing the cause of achieving equity for an inclusive leadership responsibility judging by the number of women that have been appointed into various positions in government.

NAWOJ commends the First Lady and appeals for more women to be considered for appointments as heads of federal government agencies, boards, parastatals and other organizations.

We join millions of well wishers to pray God to bless and uphold the First Lady now and always as she brings succour to Nigerian women and children.

Ladi Bala
President, NAWOJ

Akwa Ibom State government has waded into the communal clashes

Akwa Ibom State government has waded into the communal clashes between Ikot Osurua and Ikot Ubo villages in Ikot Ekpene local government area.

It urged the warring communities to sheath their swords and give peace a chance.

The commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs, Hon. Frank Archibong, who led government’s delegation to the peace meeting with trader rulers of the affected communities made the call at the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Ikot Ekpene LGA, His Royal Majesty, OkukuUdo Ukut; village heads and village councils of the warring communities.

He condemned the wanton destructions of properties and threat to lives which had caused some residents of the affected villages to flee for safety outside their homes, adding that “it is out of place for communities who had hitherto lived together in peace and harmony to resort to war on issues that could have been resolved on a round table.”

The commissioner reiterated the importance of peace in any society, saying that Ikot Ekpene is one of the strategic LGAs in Akwa Ibom state ,with high level of socio-economic activities, hosting a tertiary institution, the state Polytechnic, “and as such, the two teams should strive for peace as well as create a conducive atmosphere for businesses and developments to thrive.”

Lagdo Dam Readiness Praised by House of Representatives

The Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, has earned commendation from the House of Representatives for her ministry’s proactive stance in addressing potential humanitarian crises.

During a visit to her office in Abuja, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, Rt. Hon. Joseph Bassey, expressed his appreciation. This visit was part of the committee’s oversight responsibility to assess Nigeria’s readiness for the forthcoming release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon and to evaluate the nation’s preparedness for various flood and emergency scenarios.

Historically, Nigeria has faced severe flooding when the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon is opened. Hon. Bassey stressed the importance of preparedness in managing the consequences of such disasters. He stated, “No one can predict disaster, but preparedness determines how effectively the consequences can be managed. This is why the House Committee applauds the Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Minister for her Ministry’s readiness for humanitarian crises.”

In response, Minister Betta Edu reaffirmed her commitment to advancing President Tinubu’s vision by enhancing coordination and preparedness for potential flooding and humanitarian crises. She emphasized the need to prevent loss of life and property and advocated for the inclusion of buffer dam construction in the 2024 budget to mitigate excessive flooding.

Minister Edu revealed that the Federal Executive Council had approved flooding response documents and invited the committee to participate in field operations to gain firsthand experience. She praised President Bola Tinubu’s dedication to alleviating the suffering of Nigerians and lifting them out of poverty and humanitarian crises.

Dr. Edu also commended House Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas for his exemplary leadership and committee appointments. Accompanying Hon. Bassey during the visit were his deputy, Hon. Bashiru, and other committee members, along with the clerk.

Rasheed Olanrewaju Zubair, Special Adviser On Media and Publicity To Hon. Minister MHAPA

Minister Betta Edu Collaborates with Nigerian Military to Combat Humanitarian Crises and Poverty in Nigeria

Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, has initiated a crucial partnership with the Nigerian military to address humanitarian crises and poverty in the country. During her recent visit to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher G. Musa, in Abuja, she highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to averting crises and improving security while reducing poverty.

Edu emphasized the interconnection between insecurity, humanitarian crises, and poverty, stressing the importance of cooperation between her Ministry and the Military to prevent, mitigate, and reintegrate affected individuals into society. Additionally, she called for military support to aid humanitarian workers in assisting crisis-affected individuals and protecting displaced persons and refugees nationwide.

Furthermore, Dr. Betta Edu expressed the Ministry’s intention to expand its social register to encompass military personnel affected by conflict, ensuring they can access poverty alleviation programs and contribute to the nation’s recovery efforts.

In response, General Christopher G. Musa pledged the military’s full support, recognizing the link between poverty and crime. He assured the Minister that the military would provide necessary assistance and logistics to make the collaboration successful, including support for the barracks community. This collaboration aims to uplift Nigerians from humanitarian crises and poverty, ultimately fostering a better future for the nation.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Supports Nigeria

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has announced its commitment to aiding Nigeria in its battle against humanitarian crises and poverty.

Dr. Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, passionately urged the foundation to collaborate in tackling these pressing issues during a significant meeting in Abuja.

The Minister emphasized the severity of Nigeria’s current humanitarian crisis, affecting a staggering 16 million people due to various factors like natural disasters, conflicts, insecurity, and flooding.

Dr Betta Edu called for a unified approach involving the government, development partners, donor organizations, and the private sector to achieve the country’s commitment to eradicating poverty as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals.

Jeremie Zoungrana, the Country Director of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, wholeheartedly pledged support, expressing the foundation’s eagerness to connect the ministry with strategic partners and donors to comprehensively address poverty in Nigeria. This collaboration holds promise for a brighter future for all Nigerians, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

RTEAN Vows To Sustain Working Relationship With Journalists

National President RTEAN, Alhaji Musa Mohammed in a group photograph with the NUJ delegation in Abuja on Thursday.

The Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) has vowed to sustain the good working relationship between the association and journalists in Nigeria.

The RTEAN President, Alhaji Musa Mohammed made the vow on Thursday during a visit by the leadership and members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents Chapel, FCT Council.

The visit was a sequel to the 3-day football tournament organized by the Chapel for organizations, associations and government agencies in the FCT, during which Alhaji Mohammed was a Special Guest of Honour, but was unavoidably absent.

The visit provided the NUJ FCT Correspondents’ Chapel with the opportunity to decorate the RTEAN President with his medal, present the certificate of participation to the association and a mini-trophy for RTEAN’s partnership with the Chapel.

In his remarks, Mohammed expressed gratitude to the leadership of the NUJ FCT Correspondents’ Chapel for the honour and recognition just as he promised to sustain the collaboration with the Chapel in all its activities.

“To see all of you today in our national headquarters, I am so excited. We appreciate what you do as journalists and I want to especially thank you for putting together the 3-day football tournament.

“For you to recognise RTEAN and decorate me with my medal, present the trophy and the certificate to us as your guest and partner, I am so grateful. We appreciate the honour you have given to RTEAN. We will try our best to keep the good relationship between RTEAN and the NUJ,” he said.

Earlier, the Chairman of the FCT Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, who led the Chapel delegation, had hailed the RTEAN President for his commitment to peaceful co-existence among members of the association across States of the Federation.

Comrade Oyekunle commended Mohammed for his statesmanship and for choosing the path of honour and peace without resorting to violence during an impasse the Association had with the Lagos State Government.

Oyekunle urged other organizations and associations alike to emulate the RTEAN President’s exceptional and exemplary leadership style exhibited by seeking legal redress in the court of law.

Oyekunle stressed the visit was aimed at promoting strategic partnership and collaboration in many areas that would further deepen the existing relationship between the Chapel and RTEAN.

While seeking the collaboration of RTEAN for the next edition of the football tournament, Oyekunle said the association would be formally invited as a participating team.

He said “We are the executive members of Nigeria Union of Journalists FCT Correspondents Chapel.

“We are here this afternoon to pay homage to you as Special Guest of Honour in our just concluded 3-day football tournament.

“This is borne out of the cordial relationship that has existed between you and the media over the years as well as your love and support for sports development in the country.

“Your presence at the final of our tournament would have been an icing on the cake but we understand your busy schedules and engagements and we are happy to tell you that the tournament was a huge success.

“Sir, it will interest you to know that RTEAN will be formally invited to participate next year in the second edition of our tournament and we can’t wait to see the President lead the team”.

The highlight of the visit was the formal presentation of a trophy, medal and certificate of participation to the RTEAN President in recognition of his outstanding and significant contribution to the success of the tournament.

Humanitarian Ministry Unveils Trust Fund for Emergency Response in Nigeria – Dr. Betta Edu”

Dr. Betta Edu Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, has announced a significant initiative by the federal government to establish a trust fund dedicated to emergency and humanitarian responses within Nigeria.

Dr. Edu disclosed this while addressing inquiries from reporters during an interview regarding the ministry’s objectives and its commitment to rekindling hope for millions of Nigerians.

She emphasized that the trust fund will be complemented by meticulous follow-up protocols designed to monitor the beneficiaries of the social intervention programs under her ministry’s purview.

Dr. Edu underlined that humanitarian affairs and poverty alleviation constitute the flagship program of the administration, assuring Nigerians of her unwavering dedication to this cause.

“We are taking proactive steps to create a trust fund specifically tailored for emergency responses and humanitarian aid within the country. This includes establishing well-defined protocols governing when, how, and who should benefit from these responses,” Dr. Edu explained.

She stressed the government’s determination not to rely solely on public funds for poverty alleviation and humanitarian crisis responses. She expressed confidence in the President’s commitment, particularly in light of savings resulting from the fuel subsidy removal.

Furthermore, Dr. Edu outlined plans to engage the private sector actively in addressing humanitarian issues and poverty alleviation, reminiscent of the private sector’s support during the COVID-19 pandemic through initiatives like CA-COVID.

“We intend to employ a similar strategy to engage the private sector in humanitarian responses and poverty alleviation programs. We’ve already begun discussions with UNICEF, who have pledged support exceeding $270 million, and numerous other partners expressing their willingness to participate,” the minister stated.

Dr Betta Edu a Edu also revealed plans to establish a humanitarian situation room in collaboration with UNICEF to monitor, prevent, mitigate, and reintegrate individuals affected by humanitarian crises back into society effectively. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to handling humanitarian issues with diligence and care.

LEADERSHIP DILEMMA: CABINET RESHUFFLE

Ministerial Reshuffle Raises Questions About Leadership Intentions”

By Imaobong Umoekah::::: StàndbyNetwork

A recent State House announcement revealed an unexpected reshuffle of Ministers-Designate for key portfolios, a move that raises concerns about the leadership’s strategic planning. This unprecedented shake-up, occurring before these Ministers even take office, has left many wondering whether the current administration had clear intentions beyond its initial bid for power.

Notably, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s long-standing ambition to lead the nation has been evident since his instrumental role in General Mohammadu Buhari’s 2015 presidential victory. While many of his associates secured ministerial roles, Tinubu retained his position as National Leader of the APC, an unconventional role within Nigerian political party structures.

His journey to the presidency was marked by memorable moments, from the “Emilokan” slogan signifying his turn to the skillful handling of party primaries and the introduction of technology in the 2023 election. Tinubu’s eight-year plan seemed meticulously prepared.

However, upon assuming the presidency, Tinubu’s unexpected declaration of subsidy removal without adequate preparation led to immediate chaos, soaring fuel prices, and fuel shortages. The administration’s response to mitigate this situation has been inconsistent and uncertain, further adding to public skepticism.

Now, the Ministerial appointments present another challenge to the administration’s readiness for governance. Amendments to the constitution aimed to prevent delays in cabinet formation, but Tinubu’s adherence to the 60-day deadline raises questions about his leadership abilities.

The recent reshuffle of Ministers-Designate, yet to be sworn in, adds to the confusion. It prompts reflection on whether there is a new interpretation of “hitting the ground running.” Some argue that the APC, beyond its initial bid for power, lacks a clear plan for governance, mirroring the criticisms it once directed at the previous administration.

In summary, the administration’s actions and policy shifts have fueled doubts about its direction and strategic vision, leaving Nigerians to ponder the implications of these leadership decisions.