The Annang people constitute a unique ethnic group primarily situated in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, gathered in the Federal Capital Territory to mark a significant milestone in their community’s history. With a population estimated at approximately 3 million, the Annang community has thrived for over 35 years in the FCT, a region known for birthing the number three citizen, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio GCON, the Minister of State Petroleum Gas Resources, Obongemem Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo and other prominent Federal Government appointees of President Tinubu’s administration.
On Saturday, the Annang community celebrated the inauguration of their 8th Executive Council, as well as induction of BOTs, Patrons, and Patronesses.
The event, which was tailored to their unity and rich cultural heritage, witnessed an unprecedented turnout since the community’s inception. All three House of Representatives members from the region were in attendance, highlighting the significance of the occasion.
Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Enobong Umoessien, speaking and declaring open the ceremony, reiterated the renowned saying that characterizes an Annang man as “Agwo Uko,” denoting, honesty, prestige, pride, and unique, impeccable qualities, free from negative traits. He emphasized that the people of the region possess all the qualities necessary to be a united and indivisible entity. Dr. Umoessien noted that the inauguration is focused on fostering love and togetherness, while also celebrating the cultural heritage of the founding fathers, known for their honesty, pride, and capacity. He called on everybody to join hands in building a region where peace, unity, and love for one another flourish.
Speaking on behalf of the Board of Trustees (BOTs), Chairman Arc Dr. Ekpo Nathan took the opportunity to reiterate the formation and history of the Annang community in the FCT. He informed the gathering that the community has existed for over 35 years, with successive leaderships maintaining a positive momentum. Nathan pledged the BOTs’ commitment to providing the necessary backing and support for the incoming council.
The President, Adede Imoh Someon, delivered a heartfelt address at the event, urging all sons and daughters of the land to rise to the occasion. He acknowledged the challenges caused by negligence over time and expressed gratitude to his predecessors for setting the pace upon which he now needs to build.
Moreover, the event included the recognition and rewarding of outstanding members.
Among those recognized and rewarded meritoriously were prominent individuals such as the Minister of State for Petroleum Gas Resources, Obongemem Rt. Hon Ekperikpe Ekpo; Hon Unyime Idem, Member representing Oruk Anam Ukanafun Federal Constituency; Hon Clement Jimbo, Member representing Abak Etim Ekpo Ika Federal Constituency; Dr. Patrick Umoh, Member representing Ikot EKPENE Essien Udim Obot Akara Federal Constituency; Arc Dr. Ekpo Nathan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees; Dr. Enobong Umoessien, President of Akwa Ibom League of Professionals, Mrs Silvia Inyang, Deputy Director, FCT Secondary Education Board, Hon. Inibehe Okorie, Adede Barr. Aniefiok Ibah, President Akwa Ibom Community Abuja among others
One of the event’s highlights was the unveiling of the Annang Permanent Secretariat, symbolizing unity and aimed at bringing together all the people of the region. This landmark initiative underscores the community’s commitment to progress and development.
The event was graced by prominent sons and daughters of the region including Royal fathers who also joined in delivering powerful messages encouraging the people to embrace love and peaceful coexistence.
It was a testament to the Annang community’s resilience and determination to uphold their traditions while advancing towards a brighter future.
The Minister of State, Petroleum and Gas Resources, Obongemem Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, was represented at the event by his Special Assistant, Mr. Ubong Afia. Mr. Afia expressed the Minister’s regret for his unavoidable absence due to official engagements. He conveyed the Minister’s message of support for the growth and sustenance of the community.
Also addressing the gathering, the President of the Akwa Ibom Community, Adede Barr Aniefiok Ibah JP, described the event as unprecedented. He noted the significance of having all three Representatives of the Federal Constituencies present, considering it groundbreaking. He expressed hope that programs like this would pave the way for a brighter future ahead. He pledged his continued support, both personally and from the community at large.
In the end, chairman of the planning committee, Adede Comrade Ekerette Nathan appreciated the leader of the 10th Senate Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio GCON, the Minister of State Petroleum Gas Resources, the chairman of Occasion, the BOT chairman and other distinguished personalities for aiding in one way or the other to making the function grand. He stated that without all the support, the success of the day wouldn’t have been possible.
The Annang community’s historic milestone event in the FCT was a celebration of unity, progress, and cultural heritage. It showcased the community’s unwavering commitment to growth and development, as well as their resolve to forge ahead as a united and prosperous people.
