June 1, 2024—In a ceremony marked by grandeur and heartfelt recognition, Hon Clement Jimbo(a Honourable member of the House of Representatives, representing Abak Etim Ekpo Ika Federal Constituency), was honoured with the prestigious meritorious award as the ITAI NTÕ (Pillar) Abak Etim Ekpo Ika Indigenes Forum. This accolade was bestowed upon him in recognition of his unwavering dedication, commitment, and selfless service to the people of Abak Etim Ekpo Ika.
The ceremony also highlighted the achievements of several other distinguished individuals. Prominent among them was the Special Adviser on Women Affairs and Gender Matters to the Senate President, Obongawan Obonodo who received the award as EKA IBEREDEM NTÕ ABAK in recognition of her motherly roles to women. She used the occasion to urge members to fully support the Senate President in his efforts towards empowerment and development. Also in this category was Justice Unwana Ubom who bagged a Meritorious award as UTUENE IKANG NTÕ ABAK in recognition of her commitment and unwavering dedication to the service of the community.
Other notable awardees included the President of the Akwa Ibom Community in Abuja, Adede Barr. Aniefiok Ibah, represented by the Youth president Comrade Christopher Udoh, was recognized for his exemplary and visionary leadership. Dr. Tommy Etim Okon, the National Deputy President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), received an award for his outstanding mentorship. Pastor Okokon Etoabasi who recounted the historical perspective of the forum chaired the function. He was also among the honorees, acknowledged for his significant contributions.
In addition to these high-profile awards, several members of the Abak Etim Ekpo Ika Indigenes Forum including Arch Bishop Uwem Usoroh were honored for their exemplary community service, reflecting the forum’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating contributions at all levels.
The event was graced by royal fathers and chiefs of Akwa Ibom extraction, who came together to witness and celebrate the unity and progress within the community. The gathering underscored a shared vision for a brighter and more cohesive future for the people of Abak Etim Ekpo Ika.
The highlight of the event was a heartfelt prayer session led by Arch Bishop Uwem Usoroh for Hon Clement Jimbo, seeking God’s guidance and protection and wishing him continued fruitful service in the green chambers. During this time, a Holy Bible was presented to him symbolizing his due diligence in the side of God. Obong Mfoniso also seized the opportunity to present a 2024 best legislative Award to him including a sword( a symbol of an Annang man) for true representation of his constituents at the lower House.
During the event, a trophy received at the AKWA IBOM Cultural Fiesta by the people of Abak Etim Ekpo and Ika Indigenes Forum, was unveiled, thus becoming a notable source of inspiration at the function.
With a heart full of gratitude, Hon Clement Jimbo expressed deep appreciation for the award, acknowledging that it has further enriched his character. He vowed not to take the honor for granted. Like his mentor and political father, the Senate president, (Distinguished Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio GCON), he urged members to always give thanks to God, preached love for one another while putting the less privileged at heart. Above all, he prayed for God’s blessings upon the people of Abak for their recognition.
Earlier, the president of the forum, Obong Mfoniso Ibanga, in his welcome address highlighted the significance of the event, noting that it was the first of its kind in the history of the Federal Constituency. He emphasized that the reception underscored the Honorable member’s commitment to inclusivity and engaging with the community.
This memorable occasion not only celebrated individual achievements but also fostered a sense of unity and collective purpose among the members of the Abak Etim Ekpo Ika Indigenes Forum, setting a precedent for continued community service and development.
A vote of thanks was conducted by the Secretary General, Adede Francis Udoakpan, thanking Hon Clement for accepting to be received and honored based on his track records. His words of thanks and appreciation did not end but also went to other awardees, guests , members of the forum, and all attendees who have contributed in no small measure to make the event a resounding success.
