TEXT OF THE PRESS CONFERENCE BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE CENTRAL PLANNING COMMITTEE, MKPISOÑ (SEN.) ALOYSIUS ETOK, FOR THE OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE INSTALLATION OF OBONG PIUS OKON AS NTISOÑ IV OF AKWA ESOP IMAISOÑ IBIBIO, THE 44TH ANNIVERSARY OF AKWA ESOP, AND THE SEND-FORTH OF NTISONG IBIBIO III
Monday, 17th February 2025 | Asan Ibibio
Distinguished members of the press, esteemed leaders, and revered custodians of our rich cultural heritage,
Today marks a historic milestone in the annals of Ibibio history, and it is with profound honor that I welcome you all. On behalf of Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio, Ntisong IV in Council, the Mkpisong Council, the Grand Council of Ukai (Atauko & Uko), the Atais, and all our members across Local Government Chapters in Akwa Ibom, Nigeria, and the diaspora, I extend my deepest appreciation for your presence. As members of the fourth estate, your role is indispensable in preserving, promoting, and advancing our cultural heritage.
The media stands as an unwavering pillar of enlightenment and transformation in society. Your commitment to truth and objective reporting ensures that the narratives of our people are accurately recorded and widely disseminated. I particularly acknowledge the presence of the Mkpisong Council members, whose wisdom and leadership continue to guide our people.
This gathering has been convened to formally announce a momentous event in the history of the Ibibio Nation. On Friday, February 28th, 2025, at Asan Ibibio, Ikot Oku Ikono, Uyo Local Government Area, by 10:00 AM, Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio will proudly install its fourth Ntisong, Obong Pius Okon. This grand occasion will also mark the 44th anniversary of Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio and feature the send-forth ceremony of Ntisong III, Obong Engr. Essien Ekidem. This three-fold celebration of unity, continuity, and cultural pride serves as a clarion call for all Ibibio sons and daughters to reconnect with their heritage.
As the foremost socio-cultural organization representing the Ibibio people across Nigeria and beyond, Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio remains committed to fostering identity, unity, and communal responsibility. We welcome every Ibibio son and daughter to join hands in upholding the legacy of our ancestors.
As torchbearers of cultural enlightenment, I urge the media to harness its vast influence in publicizing this historic event. Let its significance echo through generations, strengthening our collective consciousness and fortifying our unity. Your contributions in spotlighting this milestone will serve as an enduring legacy for our people.
At this juncture, we commend His Excellency, Governor Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D., for his unwavering commitment to peace and governance in Akwa Ibom State. Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio, alongside the entire Ibibio people, remains resolute in our support for his administration. We stand as partners in his noble vision to sustain peace, drive development, and secure a prosperous future for generations to come.
Let it be unequivocally stated—Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio has reawakened. We are here to mobilize, inspire, support, coordinate, and lead our people. No longer shall we be passive observers in the affairs of our beloved state—a state for which our forebears made profound sacrifices, dating back to 1928, to establish the prominence and identity of the Ibibio Nation. We are resolved to protect, preserve, and promote our heritage, our land, and our people.
On behalf of the Central Planning Committee, I extend a warm invitation to all stakeholders and well-wishers to partner with us in making this grand occasion a resounding success. Let us unite in celebration of our rich legacy and inscribe a new chapter of unity, resilience, and cultural reawakening.
Thank you all for your time, dedication, and commitment. May the Almighty continue to bless you and your endeavors.
IMA! MBOHO! EDUEK!
Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio
