The chairman of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, Nigeria’s premier council in Akwa Ibom State, Aniefiok Nkom, has called for collaboration and unity of purpose to sustain the legacies of the founding fathers of the local government.
- +A’Ibom council boss calls for unity to preserve founders’ legacy
He stressed that unity would be critical to achieving the goals of the jubilee celebrations and shape the destiny of future generations of the council.
He stressed that unity would be critical to achieving the goals of the jubilee celebrations and shape the destiny of future generations of the council.
Nkom stated this during the world press conference held on Friday in Ikot Ekpene council, to unveil activities marking the diamond jubilee celebration of the council with the theme, “Celebrating Heritage, Inspiring the Future, Making the First, the Best.”
“Let us unite — not in empty rhetoric, but in purposeful action to honour the legacies of our forebears and to shape the destiny of generations yet unborn,” he said.
Ikot Ekpene Council, created in 1951, is the first experimental Local Government (County Council) in Nigeria and British West Africa. It serves as the premier council with leadership transiting from a colonial officer to Chief Robert Umoinyang on April 11, 1951.
The council chairman said that at 75, the council is not celebrating a birthday but a rebirth.
“Ikot Ekpene at 75 is not tired. We are not merely celebrating a birthday. We are declaring a rebirth,” Nkom stated.
He highlighted the significance of the celebration, describing the milestone as both a legacy and a challenge.
“Being first is a privilege. Staying first is a responsibility. The anniversary must inspire renewed leadership and vision rather than mere celebration,” Nkom stated.
He recalled that the creation of Ikot Ekpene 75 years ago was “a singular act of vision” that placed the area on the map as a pacesetter in governance, commerce and cultural identity.
“On this historic day, Ikot Ekpene turns 75. That singular act of vision placed us on the map not just as a people, but as a pacesetter,” he stated.
The council boss emphasised that the Diamond Jubilee would transcend ceremonial activities, positioning the council instead as a strategic platform to drive economic growth, cultural revival and global relevance.
He formally unveiled a comprehensive programme of activities spanning April to December 2026, beginning with the official flag-off and culminating in a grand finale later in the year.
A major highlight of the celebration, he disclosed, is the planned coronation and installation of the Paramount Ruler of Ikot Ekpene in August 2026, which he described as a historic step toward restoring the traditional authority and identity of the area.
“This will be a landmark event restoring the full traditional stature of our land,” he said.
The December grand finale will feature the commissioning of a modern shopping mall aimed at boosting commerce, alongside a large-scale exhibition showcasing Ikot Ekpene’s renowned raffia products and creative heritage.
“For 75 years, Ikot Ekpene has remained a beacon of cultural richness, economic enterprise, and community resilience,” Nkom noted.
He said the jubilee is forward-looking, adding: “This Jubilee is not merely about looking back in nostalgia. It is about looking forward with intentionality.”
According to him, the council aims to leverage the celebration to attract investment, enhance its visibility on national and international platforms, and strengthen collaboration among stakeholders.
He identified key focus areas to include the shopping mall project, agriculture and the creative industry, urging investors to take advantage of emerging opportunities.
“To our investors — the doors of Ikot Ekpene are open. Come and prosper with us,” he said.
Nkom also called on indigenes in the diaspora to reconnect with their roots and contribute to the development of the area.
“To our sons and daughters at home and abroad — your land needs your talent, your resources, and your voice,” he added.
He urged traditional rulers to uphold their roles as custodians of culture, stating: “You are the custodians of our soul. Stand firm.”
The chairman further charged the media to partner with the council in projecting a positive image of the area, urging journalists to “tell our story accurately and boldly.”
