Afe Nkuku Annang: Essien Udim Paramount Ruler honours Rector Federal Polytechnic Ukana
The Paramount Ruler of Essien Udim Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, has conferred an award of honour on Rector Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, Dr. Uduak S. Ukekpe, in recognition of of his outstanding contributions to the development and growth of the institution and the Essien Udim youths.
This noteworthy award was bestowed on the Rector by Obong Cosmas Okon Akpan during his installation ceremony as Akwa Akuku 1 of Annangland by Afe Nkuku Annang as well as his 59 years of Royal service cum 98th birthday Celebration at the Essien Udim Local Government Council.
The Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Udom Emmanuel, in his address, extol the the name of the Lord for enriching Obong Cosmas with long life, and describing him as one of those leaders that always move for peaceful co existence in this part of the world.
“This is a good way of ending the year and I thank God for keeping him alive and making us celebrate him while he is alive” he said.
He identified the celebration as world class, because he was amazed by the crowd present and the show of love and support from Essien Udim people.
He appreciated the awardees for their exceptional contributions in the state and says it’s well deserved. He also appreciated the leadership of the traditional institution of the state and paramount rulers as he pronounced blessings on the family.
Earlier, the Executive Chairman of Essien Udim Local Government Area, Mr Anthony Luke while receiving the governor into Essien Udim, described the peaceful state of Essen Udim as the handy work of the proactive governor.
“we gathered here today because there is peace. Few months ago that was not possible, but His Excellency Udom Emmanuel spent money and time to ensure the peace we are enjoying today, we pray God will bless you in Jesus name” he said.
“Thank you for coming to celebrate the Paramount Ruler of Essien Udim and because you have come to celebrate old age, you will live long and be celebrated as well” he prayed.
In an opening remark, the Chairman of the Ocassion, Obong Eno Akpan, welcomed everyone present to celebrate the longest serving paramount ruler in Akwa Ibom State, His Majesty Obong Cosmas Akpan.
He described him as a very good Christian who puts the interest of others before his.
He also confirmed that by the installation as the Pioneer Akwa Akuku of Annangland, Obong Cosmas shall be the mouthpiece and representative of Annag people at any official function in Akwa ibom State.
“” I hereby charge other paramount rulers to emulate this gaint strides achieved by Obong Cosmas” he said.
He mentioned that a book has been launched on his behalf, as he urged all friends and well wishers to support his book launch and his foundation.
The high point of the event was the award presentation to the Rector Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, Dr. Uduak S. Ukekpe by Obong Cosmas Akpan Okon, which was followed by book launch by the chief book launcher Engr. Oliver Ebong and the Cutting of the birthday Cake by the Celebrant along side the Governor and other Paramount Rulers.
In a message of felitication, the Rector Federal Polytechnic, Ukana Dr Uduak S Ukekpe on behalf of management of his institution extend his sincere best wishes on the occasion of the installation of Obong Cosmas Okon Akpan as the Akwa Akuku 1 of Annangland and 59 years of royal service cum birthday celebration.
“we savour this tripartite celebrations even as it is deserving and timely. It is our hope that the cordial relationship between your palace and our Polytechnic shall continue to wax stronger and blossom” he said.
“We wish you a successful reign and pray that the good Lord, the one who knows it all will continue to direct your steps as well as satisfy you with long life” Ukekpe prayed.
In a keynote address presented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy in Akwa Ibom State, on the Installation of Obong Cosmas Akpan as the Akwa Akuku 1 of Annangland.
He likened the great Obong Cosmas to the biblical king Manasseh, who was the longest serving king in the bible. He describe him as a rare gem and says he has been a light to the good people of Essien Udim over the years.
“”Obong cosmas has over the years exhibited this Sterling leadership qualities which has been instrumental in his long life and I charge everyone who wants to enjoy the same feat to emulate his life style” he said.
In a vote of thanks, the Chairman Planning Committee, E. T Abraham, lauded everyone who ensured they graced the great occasion with their presence despite their busy schedules in this festive period.
He went ahead to congratulate the awardees and confirm that the award of honour and recognition was designed by Obong Cosmas Akpan to be giving to selected 59 illustrious sons and daughters to mark his 59 years of Royal service .
Other awardees of the day include the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Udom Emmanuel, The wife of the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State Her Excellency Martha Udom Emmanuel, among others.
They were Goodwill messages by Former National Legal Adviser of people’s Democratic Party (PDP), who is currently the Chairman of the Maintain Peace Movement in Akwa Ibom State, Mr Emmanuel Enoidem and Member representing the Ikot Ekpene Constituency, Rt Hon. Nsikak Ekong.
