…as Etiebet, Stakeholders laud dividends of collaborative leadership
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State and the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, have reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining their collaborative partnership in the interest of peace, unity and the continued development of Akwa Ibom State.
The commitment was reiterated on Friday at the Leadership Anniversary Summit organised by the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Media Advocates, ISDMA, held at the Ati Annang Secretariat, Ikot Ekpene, where political leaders, media professionals and other stakeholders gathered to celebrate purposeful leadership, responsible media practice and the gains of collaborative governance.
Represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mkpisong Frank Archibong, Governor Eno described the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District as one blessed with creative, industrious and visionary people whose contributions have continued to shape the growth and development of Akwa Ibom State.
The Governor said the district occupies a strategic place in the affairs of the state, commending its people for their innovation, unity and unwavering commitment to progress. He noted that the cordial working relationship between his administration and the President of the Senate has continued to attract impactful projects and create opportunities that advance the state’s development agenda.
Governor Eno also charged media practitioners to remain committed to responsible journalism by promoting peace and highlighting the developmental strides of government rather than amplifying narratives capable of creating division.
“Your reportage should bring peace to Akwa Ibom and not breaking news that will break the state,” he said.
He commended ISDMA for providing a platform that promotes unity and constructive media advocacy, urging members to continue projecting the positive image of the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District and Akwa Ibom State. The Governor further recalled that the district was the first to organise a grand endorsement rally in support of his second-term bid and that of the Senate President, describing the gesture as a demonstration of the people’s confidence in their shared leadership.
In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by the Chairman of Essien Udim Local Government Area, Hon. Ntiedo Usoro, applauded ISDMA for recognising and promoting the ideals of collaborative leadership. He reaffirmed his commitment to working harmoniously with Governor Umo Eno to advance the collective interests of Akwa Ibom people, stressing that sustained collaboration remains essential to deepening peace, stability and development across the state.
The Senate President also pledged continued support for ISDMA’s vision of promoting responsible media engagement and constructive public discourse.
Chairman of the occasion, Senator Emmanuel Ibokessien, described the summit as a valuable platform for promoting the ideals of purposeful leadership and mentoring younger generations. He attributed the prevailing peace in Akwa Ibom State, particularly during the recently concluded party primaries, to the harmonious relationship between Governor Eno and Senate President Akpabio.
Earlier, the Chairman of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, Hon. Aniefiok Nkom, welcomed participants and commended ISDMA for initiating a platform that encourages leadership excellence, media professionalism and meaningful policy engagement.
In his welcome address, ISDMA President, Mr. Emma Akpabio, said the association was established to unite media practitioners and other stakeholders within the media ecosystem of the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District in pursuit of a common objective.
According to him, the organisation is committed to documenting and celebrating exemplary leadership, promoting development-oriented media engagement and preserving the rich history of the district for future generations.
He noted that the decision to honour Governor Umo Eno, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other distinguished sons and daughters of the district was in recognition of their outstanding contributions to governance, public service and societal development. He added that the gathering was inspired by the peace and stability currently enjoyed in the state through the partnership between both leaders.
Father of the Day and former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Atuekong Don Etiebet, described the event as a celebration of the dividends of leadership synergy, noting that the Governor’s inclusive leadership style has strengthened unity across the state.
He expressed confidence that the sustained collaboration between Governor Eno and Senate President Akpabio would continue to deliver greater benefits to the people of Akwa Ibom.
Delivering the keynote address, Emmanuel Enoidem, SAN, emphasised that nation-building is a collective responsibility and urged citizens to contribute actively to building a peaceful, united and prosperous society.
He described the relationship between Governor Eno and the Senate President as a major catalyst for development in Akwa Ibom, noting that their cooperation has enhanced access to federal interventions, strengthened support for state development priorities, attracted strategic investments and boosted the confidence of development partners.
According to him, the enduring partnership has also created the stability required for economic growth, investor confidence and sustainable development.
The summit featured a policy discourse moderated by veteran broadcaster Mr. Itoro Columba, with contributions from the International President of Ati Annang, Adede Aniekpeno Mkpanang; Chairman of Oruk Anam Local Government Area, Elder Festus Sunday; the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Dr. Essien Ndueso; and Barr. Kemfon Nneke, who examined issues bordering on leadership, media responsibility, governance and sustainable development.
Highlights of the event included the unveiling of the official ISDMA website and The Confluence, the flagship magazine of the association chronicling the achievements of both leaders, as well as the presentation of awards to distinguished personalities in recognition of their outstanding contributions to leadership, public service and community development.
The successful summit underscored the growing consensus among stakeholders that sustained collaboration between Governor Umo Eno and Senate President Godswill Akpabio remains critical to preserving peace, strengthening unity and accelerating the socio-economic development of Akwa Ibom State.
