Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has been honored as Premium 89.9FM’s Man of the Year and Best Performing Governor in Nigeria , 2024 in recognition of his contributions to community-based development and economic empowerment.
The award was presented, Friday during the station’s Colloquium and Awards and the unveil of the station’s Digital Entrepreneurship and Broadcast Mentorship Programme, held at the Vinpy Events Center, Uyo.
Presenting the Award to the Governor, the Managing Director of Premium FM, Diamond Lady Dcns. Mrs. Maureen Umanah said Pastor Umo Eno earned the award following his impactful leadership style which has brought development to every nook and cranny of the State.
Receiving the award on behalf of the Governor, his Senior Special Assistant on Research and Documentation, Dr. Essien Ndueso who described Premium FM as a worthy partner in the development of the State, appreciated the Radio Station for acknowledging his efforts in transforming the State.
A former Deputy Governor of the State, Mr. Moses Ekpo was crowned with a Lifetime Achievement award, while others including the House of Representatives Member for Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ukpong Udo, House of Assembly Member for Nsit Ubium, Rt. Hon. Otobong Bob, Chairman of Ika Local Government, Barr. Utibe Nwoko, his Uyo local government counterpart, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, Nsit Ibom counterpart, Otobong Aaron, a female entrepreneur and CEO of Uty Trends Enterprise, producers of Unike Custard, Utibe Akwa and several others, bagged various awards.
The event which had as it’s theme; “Unlocking Potentials in Community-Based Entrepreneurship: A Path to Economic Empowerment,” served as a platform for discussions on community-driven economic growth and the launch of Premium FM’s Digital Entrepreneurship and Broadcast Mentorship Initiative, aimed at training young people in digital and soft skills.
In her welcome address, the Managing Director of Premium FM, Diamond Lady Maureen Umanah, described the event as a gathering of future leaders and emphasized the station’s commitment to resilience, innovation, and community impact. She noted that the awards presented were meant to inspire recipients to strive for greater achievements.
Chairman of the occasion, Chief Ambassador Assam Assam, represented by MD/CEO of Dakadda Skills Acquisition Centre (DASAC), Obong Churchill Udoh, commended Premium FM for its bold vision in launching such an initiative despite economic challenges. He highlighted the importance of leveraging local strengths to drive economic progress.
Delivering the colloquium speech, the Chairman of Ibom Air, Pastor ImoAbasi Jacob, called for a paradigm shift in Africa’s economic model, stressing the need to nurture entrepreneurship from the grassroots level. He cited Ibom Air and improved road infrastructure as key examples of how targeted investments can transform local economies.
A panel discussion, chaired by Obong Churchill Udoh with contributions from the CEO of Start Innovation Mr. Johnson Hanson, MD of ECEWS Dr. Andy Eyo, Commissioner for Agriculture Dr. Offiong Offor, MD of Ibom FADAMA Bank Mrs. Comfort Ituh and a commissioner in the board of EARCOM Hon. Goodnews Etiutom Ediene who explored strategies to unlock entrepreneurial potential, particularly in rural communities.
The Premium 89.9FM Colloquium and Awards further reaffirms the station’s commitment to community-based engagement and economic development, paving the way for future initiatives that will empower young entrepreneurs and professionals.
