How prepared is your wine jar?

While cleaning the bathroom few days ago, I stumbled on the positive pregnancy test strip which marked the beginning of our testimony. It was the first out of hundred strips which eventually showed those two life-changing lines after months and years of dedicated checking. 

I had kept it concealed and hidden for fear that throwing it away would change my status or undo the 'deed' Lol.

I smiled at my childish thought as I recalled my long walk to victory.

Like every newlywed, I was highly expectant of conception within the first 6 months of marriage but when it didn't happen after a year, I knew something needed to be done.

Being a lover of natural remedies, I opted for fertility herbs which I knew were particularly helpful for conception. When the result wasn't forthcoming, I consulted those in the field and got enough tradomeds out of which I made teas and enemas. Still unsatisfied with the result, I began increasing the prescribed dosages to see if that would hasten my system's response to the infusions yet, nothing happened. I rather overloaded my organs with the broth that I started stooling and vomiting simultenously for days, before Dr. Ubong Gideon came to the rescue. A second year passed.

After that encounter, Hubby and I washed our hands and feet off native treatments and began seeking medical attention. It was then we discovered after the myriads of checks and examinations that the supposed problem was far from the herbs we were blindly romancing. 

We commenced treatment immediately, while believing God for the desired result. Trust me, going the medical route was quite expensive, tiring and time-consuming. There were days we felt tired and discouraged. There were days we'd make a transfer to the laboratory and shed tears at our account balance, but we were glad we weren't treating blindly this time. 

Funny enough, we patiently followed through that phase until we were certified "okay" medically still, we no see the belle. Another year passed. 

We intensified our prayers and increased our faith but I didn't sit still. I went back to my herbs joor (kikiki). "There's nothing you'd tell a woman trying to conceive ... she must seek Somehow, I had this conviction that if the herbs we took previously yielded no result, it must have been because we were simply consuming them amiss. So, having found a problem which the 'white' medicine finds difficult to cure (in my thoughts), the 'black' would definitely have a solution for it.

Thus, I began another fresh careful start with the herbs, making sure not to get into trouble this time and boom....the lines on the strip doubled!

Now, this isn't about glorifying herbs or medical services. It's about the things we do while "waiting on God". It's about how prepared we are to receive God's blessings.

A lot of times, we expect God's blessings in emptiness. It's like going to harvest without a bag; where do you intend putting the crops you'd harvest?

We pray for admission without writing JAMB; pray for a job without hunting and applying or having the requisite skills for the job. Some persons can not even prepare their CV, not to mention being employable; we pray for financial breakthrough yet, with no business at hand.

I've heard people pray for wisdom and knowledge without reading 

I've also heard people who are financially unstable fasting and praying to get married.

And then, people pray to conceive without running the necessary checks on their reproductive organs? 

How would these 'miracles' happen if you don't play your own part of the game? 

So, before you begin questioning God and pointing accusing fingers at Him, check to be sure you're not hindering His visitation.

Maybe you should also see the Doctor 

Perhaps, you should loosen up on your mindset 

It could be that (person's) right you're sitting on

Or the unforgiveness/bitterness in your heart about another person's happiness 

It could even be a sin you're not willing to let go

Or that child/adult you're maltreating

Hindrances to prayers come in different forms...so, be sure you're not the problem. Make yourself ready for that miracle because before the water turned into wine someone, filled the jars.

Helen Obareki Plans Financial Empowerment for Adolescent Girls

Priscilla Akpanettot 

Lady Helen Obareki has announced plans to equip adolescent girls in Akwa Ibom State with skills that will strengthen their financial foundations.

The Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, said this on the occasion of the 2025 International Day of the Girl-Child, celebrated in Uyo on Monday, October 13, 2025 with the theme: “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis".  

She explained that the initiative was pertinent to transform the economic landscape for adolescent girls in preparation for a safe and secure financial future.

Observing the steady growth and development of the girl-child in Akwa Ibom State, the Coordinator submitted that the girls were no longer waiting for a better world; "they are diligently building it. They are excelling in our schools, taking initiatives in their little corners, and embracing entrepreneurship with passion and innovation".

For this, she sued for a need to help the girls overcome the barriers of financial exclusion, which she noted was one of the crisis they face. 

Lady Obareki informed that the Golden Initiative for All (GIFA) was intentional about enhancing the course of the girl-child and would stop at nothing to ensure that girls were empowered.

"Under the visionary ARISE Agenda of our Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, and through the commitment of the Office of the First Lady,...our pet project, the Golden Initiative for All (GIFA)...has been strategically designed to ensure that the global goals for girl-child empowerment are translated into tangible local impact".

"Through GIFA, we are making targeted investments in enhancing leadership and learning, with focus on mentorship and equipping our girls not just with knowledge, but with the confidence and character needed for future leadership roles".

"These are strategic investments in a girl's dignity, her education, and her empowerment, which will yield returns across health outcomes, economic growth, and generational stability".

"We must understand that when a girl's right to safety, education, and health is compromised, it is not just her future that is jeopardized, but the collective future of our State", she said.

She therefore called on government agencies, community leaders, parents, teachers, men and boys to renew their commitment to the girl child and her advancement.

Even more, she urged the Girls to embrace their strength, own your voice, and never stop learning. 

"You are the heartbeat of our progress, and the leaders the world is waiting for. Believe in your potential, regardless of the crisis that surrounds you. Be the change you lead", she charged; while calling on parents and guardians to prioritize their girl-children's physical, emotional well-being and education over outdated practices.

In her remarks, the Deputy Governor of the State, Sen. Akon Eyakenyi supported the motion for the empowerment of the Girl-child.

She stressed that acquiring the relevant skills and training, and having the necessary exposure will advance the intelligibility of the Girl-child.

She therefore advised the Girls to aim for whatever they want and take their education seriously, adding that a woman can also take on leadership positions in various professional fields, apart from their roles in the home.

Earlier, Mrs. Ifiokbong Anthony Akan, Guest Speaker and Creative Director, House of Borah at the occasion had charged the Girls on principles they must strictly adhere to, to attain their dreams of becoming successful.

The principles, according to her include: determination, identify, leadership and resilience; purposefulness, among others.

The event featured a drama presentation against child abuse by the Akwa Ibom Young Professionals and  a spelling session.

Educational Tablets and Gift Packs were also given to 500 Female Students and Pupils in attendance.

Another highlight of the event was the cutting of an anniversary cake by the Coordinator of the office of the First Lady, supported by the Deputy Governor and other stakeholders.

In attendance were: the Commissioner, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs. Inibehe Etukudoh; the Commissioner, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Hon. Emem Ibanga; Wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Inemesit Uwah; Mrs. Comfort Bob, Hon. Ekaette Ebong, some Local Government Chairperson, among others.

Trader Head Condemns Forceful Unionism, bullying of unregistered sellers across markets

 

...says no one should be denied the right to earn a living from the market

Priscilla Akpanettot

Senior Special Assistant to Governor Umo Eno on Market Matters and President, Akwa Ibom Traders Association, Akparawa Idorenyin Raphael has condemned the act of forceful unionism and bullying of traders who refuse to be part of select Unions operating within markets across the State.

He described the seizure of such people’s goods as theft and warned Unions to desist from such act or face the full wrath of the law.

This was one of the discussions which held sway at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Akwa Ibom Traders Association on Friday, October 3 2025 at Governor’s Office Annexe in Uyo.

The SSA who spoke strongly against the act of forcing sellers to be part of respective Unions said it was an act of high-handedness and wickedness to prevent people from earning a decent means of living in the market, and a breach of their fundamental human rights.

He however encouraged the traders to register with any market union of their choice to enjoy incentives and benefits such as access to funds and government support.

“There’s freedom of Association and people are entitled to their freedom. If anybody wants to be part of your Union, its’s fine. If they don’t, it is their choice. Forceful unionism is illegal. No one should force you to join any market Union. If you are harassed for not joining a Union, call me and we will seek legal redress”, he stressed.

Tracing the history of the Association to 2011, the Trader Head observed that its unity, organization and discipline had given traders a strong political voice and positioned it as the second strongest and organised trading bloc in the country.

As such, he appealed for more unity and pledged commitment to the oneness of the Association. “I may not be the best, but I will endeavour to unite the Association to the best of my ability”, he said.

He noted that the AGM was an avenue for checks and balances, as well as ensuring transparency and accountability across all market fronts in the State.

While commending Governor Umo Eno for his commitment to the cause of Traders in the State, Akparawa Raphael listed the Governor’s intervention programmes to include: the grouping of traders into cooperative societies for the provision of buses, as well as a ₦2 billion interest-free loan introduced in the last administration, which has now been converted into grants by the current administration. He also brought to public knowledge the construction of Urua Anwa in Oruk Anam, Urua Obo Annang in Essien Udim, Urua Edereobo in Obot Akara with 50 lock-up stalls and open sheds complete with water and toilet facilities; Urua Ette in Ikot Abasi, Urua Ikot Akpabio in Nsit Atai, Okobo Beach Market, and Otoro Market in Abak; not excluding the newly constructed solar-powered Ndiya street to access Akpan Andem Market, and the ongoing Itam Park Market project, which is now 80% complete.

He also thanked Governor Umo Eno for instituting the biometric capturing of traders in a digital portal for easier access to grants while passing down the Governor’s directive that all market men and women should register on the Portal for easy access to grants.

While announcing a personal funding of traders’ accounts across the 31 local government areas with ₦3.1 million as part of his drive for transparency and ease of accountability among leaders of each Local Government Association, Akparawa Raphael revealed that the Governor has earmarked over ₦10 billion for traders and farmers in the 2026 Akwa Ibom State budget; an allocation which he said will bring about massive development, increased empowerment, and expanded opportunities for traders, and in turn boost the state’s economy.

For these and more, the Association unanimously passed a vote of confidence in Governor Umo Eno and presented a cheque of ₦100 million as his re-election nomination fee for a second term come 2027.

They further commended the leadership of Akparawa Raphael for amplifying the challenges of traders and pledged their total loyalty to the government.

The Annual General Meeting also featured the appointment of Akparawa Idorenyin Raphael as Chairman, Board of Trustee of the Akwa Ibom Traders Association and Pastor Moses Sambo as Acting President of the Association.

COOPA Congratulates Member on Governor's Appointment

 

The Conference of Online Publishers in Akwa Ibom State (COOPA), has congratulated one of its founding members, Mr. Cavil Inwang, on his appointment as Special Assistant to the Governor on Digital Marketing and Social Media.

COOPA's Chancellor, Mr. Utitofon Morgan, described Mr. Inwang’s appointment by Governor Umo Eno, Ph.D, as a well-deserved recognition of excellence, professionalism, and digital competence.

The Conference appreciates the Governor for considering a core digital communication expert from its fold for such a strategic role.

“Mr. Inwang is not only a founding member of COOPA, but has been a consistent voice in the digital media space. He is known for his innovative approach to online engagement, integrity, and deep understanding of the dynamics of social media communication,” the statement read in part.

While expressing confidence that the new Aide would bring his wealth of experience and creativity to bear in driving the digital visibility of the state government’s programmes and policies, COOPA notes that the appointment points to the growing relevance and influence of digital media practitioners in governance and policy communication.

“We commend His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno, for continuously identifying and appointing young, competent professionals into critical roles in his administration. Cavil's appointment is a step in the right direction and aligns with the Governor’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation in public service delivery,” the Chancellor stated.

COOPA assures Mr. Inwang of its full support as he embarks on his new role and charges him to remain a worthy ambassador of the digital media community in the state.

Ephraim Inyangeyen’s Ordination – Desire Granted

 

“The ordination signals a new level of commitment to this gospel of my Lord Jesus Christ” – Pastor Inyangeyen

By Substance Udo-Nature

On Sunday, 20th July, 2025, Mr. Ephraim Akparawa Inyangeyen, was ordained a Pastor in the Insight Bible Church, Abuja. He is the former Commissioner for Works and pioneer officially recognized Chief of Staff to the former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel. It is interesting that all the necessary distractions along the course of time have not disconnected his focus from this grand desire. 

Although it was nothing so extraordinary to celebrate with fanfare or boast about, just imagine how busy and sensational front pages of newspapers especially in Akwa Ibom State would have been was Inyangeyen involved in something negative. Just imagine. But there was mischievous quiet in the media over his ecclesiastical call! 

Not that he craved such publicity or is bothered about the indifference, but it speaks to the syndromatic prejudice of the media towards positive developments, especially if we remember that everything and anything Inyangeyen has always made banner headlines in newspapers. We will continue to forgive the media for tomfoolery!   

It is the reason I must be quick to state that this essay is not a eulogy or paean. I do not have the gifts of sycophancy. So this essay is an unsolicited attempt at examining Inyangeyen’s passionate progression in this regards and the significance of his ordination in relation to public expectations in a country where socioeconomic dynamics have birthed all manner of persons wearing the collar and the cassock merely for the spectacle and make-belief. 

This writer shares flourishing stubborn and foster filial relationship with Pastor Inyangeyen. Those who know know. So, the comments I have heard and calls I’ve received from close friends for confirmation at the break of the news of the ordination clearly showed how much people could remember. The reactions have been a cocktail of sentiments and compliments for the ordained Pastor. 

One unassuming but excited fellow whom I felt never really knew Inyangeyen caught my special attention when he called on phone just a day after the ordination to ask, “Is it true?” His curious and innocent inquiry reminded me of 1 Samuel 10:11, “Is Saul also amongst the prophets?” More than that, his question added fuel to my settled intention for this article. I have realized that many only knew Inyangeyen from a distance or what the media used to feed them on while he was in government. 

The inquiries were also an indication of peoples’ longstanding attachment to Pastor Inyangeyen as a celebrated brand in private enterprise and public service delivery counting from his days in the Nigeria Customs. It also showed that God can choose whomever he wants. Remember: All but the last born son of Jesse had lined up for anointing by Samuel the Priest, yet none was chosen in the expectation of humans. Not only the father but also the prophet were astounded. 

But 1 Samuel 16: 7 reports: “But the Lord said onto Samuel, look not at his countenance, or the height of his stature…for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart”. KJV. 

Inyangeyen is still remembered as the spectacular former Commissioner for Works within which time most of the roads in the administration of Udom Emmanuel were built with rapidity and éclat. He also contested on the platform of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) in the 2023 Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District election which he was condemned to lose to the shenanigans of heartless political contractors who make Nigerian politics what it is today.

Perhaps largely because he made no noise about it or flaunted it as a tag of righteousness even while he was still serving in government, not many knew that pastoring has always been Inyangeyen’s unquenchable desire. I do not want to reveal that in about the past 15 years, Inyangeyen has kept a private sanctuary at his Ikot Ebiere country home, Onna Local Government Area, where he dedicatedly assembles family members and others every last Friday of the month for thanksgiving where he or invited pastors minister.

The building is a 500-capacity auditorium right in his compound. Besides, in and out of seasons, he also has a tradition of periodically inviting people from nearby communities and beyond to treat them to charity in expression of God’s faithfulness and blessing upon his life. It is not also my intention to mention that, as a Commissioner, Inyangeyen introduced a brief prayer session every first Monday of the month at the Ministry of Works. That initiative promptly died with his departure.

His recent ordination therefore is not a gate-crashing experience. To reach that point, he deliberately had subjected himself to divine tutorship in the Latter Rain Assembly back in days leading up to 2013 in Lagos. Over the years, he has been refined by further studies and life’s challenges. It means that the Pastor has a good grasp of theology, theosophy, and epistemology, to effectively deploy his endowed eloquence in boldly and persuasively passing the message of life. 

“I have been preaching the gospel for many years but the ordination signals a new level of commitment to this gospel of my Lord Jesus Christ”, he told me in a phone chat. 

There is more to this. Even so well equipped with the Word and blessed with modest means of life, Inyangeyen has shown humility. He refused to join the bandwagon of self-anointed and self-serving seminarians who were always in a hurry to litter every space of their choice with churches. Does Nigeria really need more churches or spiritually religious persons? Are we morally and religiously better now in the proliferation of churches than we were at a time there were just about one or none in a community of communities? 

It is in this light we commend and celebrate the newly ordained Pastor for his patience and modesty in not seeking self-glory and gratifications. He simply would have put up a building to have his face on a glossy poster or big flex banner just to be counted amongst Church Founders. I asked him why he chose the Insight Bible Church. Hear him:

“I left Lagos for Uyo in 2013 and couldn’t travel regularly back to Lagos to be part of the Latter Rain Assembly as it then was, and I began to ask God where I could worship and hear His undiluted Word. Afterwards, my spirit directed me to the Insight Bible Church and I met Pastor Sylvanus Ukafia and offered to start teaching in the Sunday School, which I was doing in Latter Rain Assembly in Lagos. I see my ordination in the Vineyard of the Lord as my ultimate goal in life”.

Established in April 1997, Insight Bible Church prides and introduces itself as a “Bible-believing church where God’s word is taught with accuracy and people receive insight to enable them succeed in everything they do”. It is presided over by Dr. Sylvanus Ukafia. 

It could have been no coincidence that Inyangeyen’s ordination took place in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. Apart from giving it national appeal, it offers him a vantage and counterpoise for deeper cross-examination of attitudes in multi-religious diversities that make up Nigeria. But if he will station in Abuja, he must know that this is Minister Wike’s artificial territory. He must be wary of big invitation cards. Good enough, Pastor Inyangeyen is brave by nature and richly contented, someone who will not fear faces to gratify sentiments and trivialities in his service in the Lord's Vineyard! 

We wish you a successful ministry, Man of God. Congratulations, Sir!

World Malaria Day: Lady Helen Obareki takes Sensitisation to Market

 

As part of activities to mark the world Malaria day which holds globally on April 25, the Coordinator of the Office of the Akwa Ibom State First Lady, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, on Friday hosted a sensitisation rally against the life-threatening disease at the Akpan Andem Market in Uyo. 

The rally organized by the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA) with support from the state Ministry of Health, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Gloesel and other partners, was aimed at raising awareness about the causes, symptoms and prevention of malaria, as well as promote measures to combat the disease in the state. 

Lady Obareki interacted with the market women and traders, educating them on the use of insecticide-treated nets, indoor residual spraying, and other preventive measures, while emphasizing the need for prompt medical attention to reduce malaria prevalence and promote public health. 

"Keep your environments clean and ensure to use insecticide-treated nets as well as other prevention measures to prevent malaria . If you notice any symptoms of malaria, endeavour to seek medical attention. That is why we came here today. 

"Governor Umo Eno has shown unwavering commitment to reducing the prevalence of malaria in the state. You must also play your part to complement the effort of the government," she said.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem John, announced that the government of Pastor Umo Eno has covered all costs for malaria testing, drugs and prevention measures. He urged Akwa Ibom citizens to take advantage of free malaria medical treatment and access mosquito nets at public hospitals.

Dr. Ekem emphasized the importance of using the mosquito nets correctly, advising the traders in the market against diverting the nets for farming purposes. He encouraged everyone to sleep under the nets to effectively prevent mosquito bites and reduce the risk of malaria, announcing a collaboration between Akwa Ibom State Government and Ibom Air over the distribution of 60,000 doses of Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine (SP) for the prevention of malaria in pregnant women.

In their respective speeches, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Inibehe Silas and the Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency, Prince Akpan Ikim, emphasized the need for a proactive approach to combating the disease. They urged citizens to maintain a clean environment by cutting overgrown grass, clearing clogged gutters and eliminating stagnant water and refuse, which are breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Health talks were presented by the President of the Medical Women's Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Akwa Ibom State branch, Dr Uduak Usanga, Chairman of the Association of Lady Pharmacists of Nigeria, (ALPs), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Pharmacist Enobong Akpan and Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, (PSN), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Pharmacist Abasiama Uwatt, who spoke on the 2025 Malaria Day global theme "End Malaria with Us", enlightened the market women on how to prevent malaria in their communities by keeping their environment clean, engaging in proper refuse disposal and the appropriate use of the treated mosquito net provided by the government noting that the eradication of malaria is not only the duty of government but a collective responsibility, calling on all to join the fight against the prevalence of the disease in the state.

They advised the market women to seek proper medical attention in government medical facilities when they begin to have symptoms of malaria, correcting the impression that malaria is a death sentence as it can be treated with the right medication.

The sensitization event included several fun games, as well as a dance competition. Winners participated in a raffle draw for a variety of prizes from the Coordinator of the office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Eno Obareki including blenders, electric kettles and other gifts, with every participant receiving mosquito nets, umbrellas, cash, and fez caps. 

Media Unit

Office of the First Lady, AKS

April 25, 2025

COOPA Trains Members on AI Digital Skills

 

...Reveals financial and career-saving opportunities 

Members of the Conference of Online Publishers in Akwa Ibom State (COOPA) have been trained on the act of leveraging on Artificial Intelligence (AI), a tech skill which will enhance thier abilities to unlock both financial and career opportunities while surmounting inevitable challenges on their growth journey.

This was the focus of the training session as organised by COOPA at Perly Gate Residence along  Calabar-Itu highway, Uyo, yesterday, Friday, April 26, 2025, themed "Unlocking Earning Potential with AI-Powered Digital Skills." 

During the training session, the resource person, Hannah Graham, who is the founder of TutorTech Initiative, revealed the many dormant opportunities untapped in the tech world with focus on AI availability to ease media engagements responsibly. 

The UK-based tech-savvy went further on a practical session on how to engage AI tools in one's daily work-life and other engagements, which makes task accomplishment much easier when the user is better informed on the usage of these AI tools. 

She debunked the notion that AI emergence in the tech world is impeding creativity and relieving many employees of their job roles. Mrs Graham noted that though AI has come to stay and helping CEOs, individuals, and corporate entities to manoeuvre their official routines easily, it is compelling for all to be accustomed to these tools which have come to stay. "Existing side-by-side with humans is the future which is already here," she said.

She encouraged COOPA members to avail themselves of these innovative tools, like the ChatGPT, which will not only enhance their growth but their capacity as individuals doing business in the online space.

Earlier, in his opening remark, the Chancellor of COOPA, Mr. Utitofon Morgan appreciated the resource person, Hannah Graham, who was the guest speaker on the occasion, for seizing time from her busy schedule to share knowledge with members of COOPA.

Morgan stressed that one of the blueprints of his administration is the training and retraining of COOPA members, which was captured in his manifesto. He urged members to take advantage of the training and maximize the provisions of AI tools in their daily online engagements for optimum media outputs while opening income earning opportunities.

He also seized the opportunity to appreciate the Special Assistant to the Governor on Trade and Market Matters, Mr. Idorenyin Raphael for being one of the facilitators of the event. 

In his goodwill message, the Special Assistant to Governor Umo Eno on New/Digital Media, Mr. Richard Okon appreciated the organisers and the resource person for offering the learning platform. He noted that the value of self development can not be underestimated as such training offers an opportunity to learn, relearn, and unlearn. He urged COOPA, who is the organiser, to expand the training  series in the future for more people to benefit and promised to give the necessary support during COOPA's proposed outing later in the year. He added that he wants to align with one of the focuses of the ARISE agenda of Governor Umo Eno's administration which is youth empowerment and skill acquisition. 

In his appreciation speech, the chairman of the training committee and deputy chancellor, COOPA, Prince Simeon Akpan, appreciated the Chancellor of COOPA, the resource person, the SA to the Governor, other facilitators of the training and members of COOPA for making the event a reality. He expressed hope that with the knowledge gained, a lot will change in the output of media engagements of members.

Meanwhile, the highlight of the event was the award of honour to the resource person, Hannah Graham, for her tireless contributions to human capital development and technological advancement within and outside Nigeria where over 2000, mostly women and children have benefited  from her free training on TutorTech Initiative platform.

©️ Enwono-Abasi Elisha