Akwa Ibom State marked its 39th anniversary with a grand celebration, featuring a variety night at the ARISE Palm Resort in Uyo. Governor Pastor Umo Eno presented a cheque of N190 million for full scholarships to two outstanding students. The recipients are Dr. Joseph Akpan and Uwakmfon Umana Joseph, who will pursue postgraduate studies in surgical and intervention science at McGill University, Canada, and software engineering at Nile University, Abuja, respectively.
Governor Eno highlighted that the event was a night of gratitude, acknowledging the contributions of past leaders to the state's development. He commended his predecessors, including Obong Victor Attah and Senator Godswill Akpabio, for laying the foundation for the state's growth. Eno expressed appreciation for their sacrifices and contributions, stating that the current administration is building on the foundation laid by them.
The scholarships awarded to Dr. Akpan and Uwakmfon Umana Joseph were made possible through the governor's promise to support brilliant students. Dr. Akpan, the best graduating student in Medicine and Surgery from the University of Uyo, will receive N160 million for his postgraduate studies. Uwakmfon Umana Joseph's N30 million scholarship was a commitment made by the immediate past governor.
Governor Eno also presented an excellence leadership award to the Vice Chancellor of the Akwa Ibom State University, Prof. Otoabasi Akpan. The award was in recognition of Prof. Akpan's efforts in securing accreditation for 49 courses and other strides within his short period as Vice Chancellor. The governor appreciated everyone who participated in the state's anniversary celebration and urged them to continue playing their part in promoting peace and unity.
Senate President Akpabio, who attended the event, commended Governor Eno for his development strides, particularly the reclamation and transformation of a life-threatening gully erosion site into a world-class tourism facility. He acknowledged the contributions of past leaders and praised the governor for uniting stakeholders across party lines, making the state a home for all.
The 39th anniversary celebration of Akwa Ibom State was marked with various activities, showcasing the state's growth and development over the years. Governor Eno emphasized that the state has every cause to celebrate, citing the progress made in various sectors. He expressed gratitude to all Akwa Ibomites, friends of the state, and lovers of Akwa Ibom for their support over the years.
The event featured a gathering of past leaders, including Group Captain John Ebiye (rtd) and Col. Yakubu Bako (rtd), who were commended for their contributions to the state's development. Governor Eno reiterated his commitment to building on the foundation laid by his predecessors, ensuring that the state continues to move forward.
Key points
- Governor Eno presents N190 million scholarships to two outstanding students.
- The scholarships were awarded to Dr. Joseph Akpan and Uwakmfon Umana Joseph.
- The event marked the 39th anniversary of Akwa Ibom State, celebrating its growth and development.
