Akara, kuli-kuli and Groundnut trend not funny

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

Those jumping on the maize, akara and kuli-kuli trend are, in my opinion, only rubbing salt into our already wounded sensibilities.

It is not enough that the First Lady has seemingly sized us up and pointed us toward the trenches. Isn't that what we call see finish?

At a time when the rest of the world is racing to embrace technological innovation and economic advancement, we are being encouraged to adopt an outdated survival strategy—and, instead of questioning it, we're making memes and catching cruise with it.

I understand that Nigerians often use humour to cope with painful realities. It is one of our greatest coping mechanisms. But not every issue should be laughed away, and this is one of them.

I can confidently say that none of those frying akara, selling kuli-kuli or roasting corn would willingly choose that path if better opportunities existed. Why would anyone deliberately wake up at 4:00 a.m. to sort and wash beans, head to the mill before dawn despite the prevailing insecurity, return home to endure hours in front of scorching fire and hot oil, and then still hawk the products if customers don't come?

Or what exactly is amusing about sitting in the cold, frantically fanning burning charcoal to roast corn while enduring smoke, heat and flying sparks that leave burns on the skin?

Which of these alternatives can Her Excellency realistically attempt herself?

More importantly, how many women in the akara, kuli-kuli or corn-roasting socioeconomic class can comfortably send their children to even a modest private school? How many can pay rent without anxiety, feed their families consistently, or afford life-saving medical treatment if their husbands become financially incapacitated?

May we never find ourselves in such circumstances. I reject and refuse it with every fibre of my being. Neither my biological sisters nor my sisters by circumstance should ever have to endure such a life.

To our mothers, aunties and sisters whose youthful glow has faded under the weight of this backbreaking labour; to women whose dignity and feminine charm have been eroded by an economy that continues to fail them, all I can sincerely say is, "Sorry." "E go beta". Abi wetin I wan talk pass that one?

Nigeria is not for the faint-hearted, and this is yet another reminder.

We cry daily about insecurity, banditry, unemployment, the unbearable cost of living and incessant fuel price hikes. Now, we're asked to go find a means of survival...it is finished!

This must be the reason Jesus wept—in capital letters.

World Breastfeeding Week 2026: IOM Coalition Rolls out Medical Mission Across 20 LGAs

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

Residents of 20 Local Government Areas in Akwa Ibom State are set to benefit from free integrated healthcare services as the Ibom Open Maternity (IOM) Coalition has concluded arrangements for the 2026 Ibom Open Maternity Project in commemoration of the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week.

The coalition announced that the medical outreach will run from August 3 to August 13, 2026, following a review of its initial implementation plan. 

According to the IOM Core Technical Team, some Local Government Areas originally listed for the programme were dropped to enable the coalition channel available resources toward delivering a more impactful intervention in the final 20 benefiting LGAs.

Activities will officially commence on Saturday, August 1, with an Advocacy Road Walk in Uyo aimed at creating public awareness and mobilizing residents for the World Breastfeeding Week celebration and the statewide medical mission.

The outreach will begin on August 3 in Ukanafun and Oruk Anam, before moving to Ikono and Ini on August 4, Nsit Ibom and Nsit Ubium on August 5, Oron and Urue-Offong/Oruko on August 6, Ikot Abasi and Mkpat Enin on August 7, and Nsit Atai and Ibesikpo Asutan on August 8. After a one-day break, medical teams will continue the exercise in Itu and Ibiono Ibom on August 10, Esit Eket and Ibeno on August 11, Abak and Ika on August 12, before concluding in Ikot Ekpene and Essien Udim on August 13.

The programme will climax with a grand finale in Uyo on August 14, marking the end of two weeks of free medical consultations, maternal and child health interventions, public health education, and advocacy activities designed to promote healthier families and communities across the state.

Speaking on the initiative, the Team Lead and Coordinator of the Ibom Open Maternity Project, Aniekeme George, said the coalition remains committed to expanding access to quality healthcare for pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and other vulnerable groups. He encouraged residents of the participating Local Government Areas to take advantage of the free services, noting that the intervention is intended to reduce maternal and infant mortality while improving health outcomes across Akwa Ibom State.

George also expressed appreciation to partner organizations, relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, as well as the chairmen of the participating Local Government Areas for their collaboration and support, describing their contributions as instrumental to the successful planning and implementation of the 2026 Ibom Open Maternity Project.

CITN, NRS, AKIRS Hold Tax Awareness Seminar to Promote Compliance, National Growth

Chairman of CITN Uyo and District Society, Dcns. Idorenyin Charles William, FCTI, flanked by Chairman, AKIRS, Mr. Okon Okon; Chairman of the occasion, Elder Isaiah Ntekim, FCTI and others

By Kufre Akpakpan, Emmanuel Hanson and Uliang Essang

The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Uyo and District Society, in collaboration with the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) and the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS), on Friday, June 26, 2026 organised a one-day tax awareness seminar aimed at promoting voluntary tax compliance and supporting national development.

The seminar, held at the ICT Hall of the Office of the Accountant General in Uyo, brought together tax professionals, government officials, business owners and other stakeholders under the theme, "Tax Awareness for National Growth: Reforms, Compliance and Shared Prosperity."

In her welcome address, the Chairman of CITN Uyo and District Society, Dcns. Idorenyin Charles William, FCTI, welcomed participants and underscored the importance of tax education in strengthening Nigeria's revenue base and fostering sustainable economic development through improved compliance.

Dcns Idorenyin Charles William giving a remark

Delivering the keynote address, the Executive Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS), Sir Okon Okon, highlighted the critical role of tax reforms and compliance in driving sustainable economic growth and national prosperity.

He commended the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria for organising the nationwide tax awareness campaign and selecting a theme that reflects the importance of taxation to national development.

According to him, taxation remains the foundation of sustainable governance, while the current reforms are designed to simplify tax administration, eliminate multiple taxation, broaden the tax base and improve the ease of doing business across the country.

Okon further emphasised that, "we should tax fruits, not seeds; tax wealth, not poverty," adding that "data is the king" in promoting transparency, compliance and efficient tax administration. He also cited Anambra State as an example of prudent utilisation of taxpayers' funds to deliver visible infrastructure and social development.

Mr. Okon Okon delivering the Keynote 

Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, Elder Isaiah Ntekim, FCTI, stressed the importance of the country's ongoing tax reforms in enhancing public understanding and encouraging voluntary compliance. He observed that many taxpayers, including tax professionals, were still seeking clarity on the reforms, noting that the seminar provided an opportunity for experts to explain the changes.

"It's not about increasing the taxes. It's just that a lot of us who are supposed to pay tax have failed to comply," he said.

Participants also received a technical presentation by Mr. Ifiok O. Udo, FCTI, Managing Partner of Ifiok Udo & Co., on the seminar's theme, "Tax Awareness for National Growth: Reforms, Compliance and Shared Prosperity." He stressed the need for increased public awareness and voluntary compliance with tax obligations as essential drivers of national growth.

Attendees at the event

Another paper was presented by Mr. Victor Idakpokpo, Deputy General Manager, Tax Administration and Advisory, TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited, on the topic, "Nigeria 2025 Tax Reforms: Impact on Business Compliance, Taxpayer Obligations and Revenue Generation." He examined the implications of the recent tax reforms for businesses and taxpayers, outlined strategies for improving compliance and enhancing revenue generation, and noted that the new tax reforms exempt gifts from taxation.

The seminar also featured interactive panel discussions and question-and-answer sessions, providing participants with the opportunity to engage tax experts on issues relating to taxation, compliance and the implementation of the new reforms.

Organisers expressed optimism that the seminar would deepen public tax awareness, encourage voluntary compliance and contribute to improved revenue generation in support of both national and state development goals.

The event was preceeded by a street walk the previous day, with members of the CITN Uyo and District Society taking the message of prompt tax payment to markets and city centres.

Akwa Ibom Govt Sensitises Youth Leaders on Drug Abuse, Vandalism Prevention

 

By Tommy Emem and Aniekeme Ikwang

Akwa Ibom State Government has intensified efforts to combat drug abuse and youth-related crimes by sensitising youth leaders across the state on the dangers of substance misuse, vandalism, and other social vices.

The one-day sensitisation workshop, organised by the Ministry of Youth Development on Friday, June 26 at the Civil Service Auditorium, State Secretariat, Uyo, commemorated the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse. It brought together members of the Akwa Ibom State Forum of Village Youth Presidents and the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Akwa Ibom State Chapter.

Panelists at the event

The workshop, themed "The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses," focused on equipping youth leaders with knowledge and practical strategies to address emerging challenges associated with drug abuse while promoting responsible citizenship and the protection of public infrastructure.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr. Ekerete Ekanem, described young people as indispensable partners in building a peaceful and progressive society. He urged participants to become advocates against drug abuse, criminality, and the destruction of public facilities in their respective communities.

Attendees at the occasion 

Dr. Ekanem clarified that the occasion was not a celebration of drug abuse but a day set aside to raise awareness about its devastating consequences.

"There is nothing to celebrate about drug abuse. Rather, today is an opportunity to sensitise our young people on the adverse effects of substance misuse and encourage them to make positive life choices," he said.

Delivering the keynote address, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Noble Lady Helen Obareki, described drug abuse as a growing societal crisis that threatens families, communities, and the nation's future workforce. She stressed the need for collaborative efforts in addressing the menace.

She noted that the year's theme serves as an urgent call to confront both longstanding and emerging drug-related challenges through innovative and community-driven responses.

"This theme is not merely a slogan. It is an urgent roadmap that compels us to confront the silent warfare substance abuse wages against our families, communities, and the very foundation of our workforce—the youth. We must collectively rise to address one of the most resilient crises of our time," she said.

Participants were taken through a series of technical sessions by experts from relevant government agencies and institutions.

Speaking on road safety and responsible behaviour, CRC Nsembo Brown encouraged youths to imbibe safe driving habits, obey traffic regulations, and make responsible decisions capable of preserving lives.

The Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) delivered a presentation on youth-related crimes and anti-vandalism campaigns, highlighting the economic and developmental consequences of vandalising public infrastructure.

On mental health, Dr. Evelyn and Dr. Idongesit Ubi educated participants on the relationship between substance abuse and mental wellbeing, urging young people to seek professional help whenever confronted with emotional or psychological challenges.

Similarly, ASN Monday Otabor spoke extensively on drug abuse prevention, warning participants against the dangers of substance misuse and calling for sustained advocacy towards building a drug-free society.

Goodwill messages delivered by the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey; the Director of Administration and Supplies, Ministry of Youth Development, Mr Anthony Isonguyo; Special Assistant on Youth Matters to the Governor and State Coordinator of the Female Youths (Purple), Lady Edna Daniel and the Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Ekong, encouraged youths to shun substance abuse to enable them contribute meaningfully to the society.

The event also featured a panel discussion on the theme of the event and ballad presentation titled, "lifestyle".

The programme ended with a call on participants, to take the campaign against drug abuse and vandalism back to their communities in order to build a safer, healthier and more responsible Akwa Ibom State.

Goodwill messages were delivered by the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey; the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth Development; and the Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Mr. Emmanuel Ekong, all of whom commended the initiative and encouraged youths to serve as ambassadors of positive change.

The sensitisation programme forms part of Akwa Ibom State Government's broader commitment to youth empowerment, crime prevention, and sustainable social development.

Dignitaries at the event included the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Noble Lady Helen Obareki; Commissioner for Youth Development and host, Dr. Ekerete Ekanem; Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey; the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Corps Commander Felicia Kalu, represented by CRC Nsembo Brown; the State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Commander Nsikak-Abasi Udo; President of the Akwa Ibom State Forum of Youth Presidents, Mr. Itai James Abraham; Chairman of the NYCN, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Ekong; the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth Development, Lady Ethna; the Coordinator of Female Youth, Akwa Ibom State, alongside directors and staff of the ministry.

CHRAN Leads Anti-Terror Campaign in Uyo, Calls for National Unity Against Insecurity

 

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

The Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) on Saturday, June 20, 2026 staged a public campaign against terrorism in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, calling on Nigerians to unite against insecurity and support efforts aimed at restoring peace across the country. The campaign, themed: "Unite Against Terror," drew civil society advocates, legal practitioners and concerned citizens who stressed the need for collective action in combating terrorism.

Speaking during the event, the Executive Director of CHRAN, Otuekong Franklin Isong, described terrorism as a common enemy that recognises no tribe, religion, social class or political affiliation. He said the campaign would be sustained in view of the prevailing security challenges confronting the nation. Isong urged citizens to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies, stressing that, "when you see something, say something." He lamented that terrorism has brought untold sorrow, pain and division to many Nigerian families and condemned those sponsoring acts of terror.

Delivering an advocacy speech titled "The Masquerade Masked with Terror," the Executive Director of Vital Partners for Development, Dr. Victor David, described terrorism as a monster that has invaded Nigeria's national life, destroying livelihoods, education, agriculture and hope. He said fear had replaced peace in many communities, with farmlands abandoned, children forced into captivity, and classrooms silenced by insecurity. Stressing that Nigeria is stronger than fear, he urged citizens to reject terror, defend national unity, and work collectively with government, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and security agencies to build a safer nation where every citizen can live, work, worship and travel without fear.

Also speaking, legal practitioner Barr. Clifford Thomas said every Nigerian, including security personnel, children, women and families, has become a victim of terrorism in one way or another. He noted that regardless of how terrorism found its way into the country, Nigerians must recognise their shared vulnerability and unite in confronting the menace rather than treating it as a problem affecting only certain regions or groups.

Another speaker, Barr. Ubiere, called on Nigerians to join hands in ending violence by promoting peace, love and mutual understanding. He urged citizens to reject hatred and embrace values that strengthen national unity, insisting that lasting peace can only be achieved through collective responsibility and tolerance.

The campaign ended with participants reaffirming their commitment to supporting efforts aimed at tackling insecurity and promoting peaceful coexistence across Nigeria. Organisers expressed hope that sustained public awareness and active citizen participation would contribute significantly to the fight against terrorism and the restoration of lasting peace in the country.

Pen Girls Initiative Takes GBV Awareness Campaign to Eket Market, Urges Victims to Speak Out

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

As part of activities marking the close of the 2026 Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Awareness Campaign, The Pen Girls Initiative on Thursday, June 25, 2026, took its advocacy to Urua Nka Market in Eket Local Government Area, where traders were sensitised on the provisions of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law and the need to break the culture of silence surrounding abuse.

The advocacy campaign focused on educating market women, traders and residents on what constitutes Gender-Based Violence; the legal consequences of committing such offences and the available channels through which victims can seek justice. Members of the Initiative also cited recent cases in which perpetrators of GBV had been successfully prosecuted, stressing that the law is being actively enforced and that offenders are increasingly being held accountable.

Speaking during the sensitisation, Leader of The Pen Girls Initiative, Comrade Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot enlightened participants on harmful widowhood practices, abandonment of spouses and dependants, as well as emotional and verbal abuse. She urged victims and witnesses to reject the culture of silence by reporting cases of abuse, noting that speaking up is essential to ensuring justice for victims and bringing perpetrators to book.

Other members of the advocacy team also took turns educating the traders on various forms of Gender-Based Violence. Comrade Mary Ekere spoke on rape, indecent exposure and offensive conduct, while explaining the legal remedies available to survivors. Comrade Ekemini Akpan  addressed issues relating to forceful ejection from home, forced financial dependence and stalking; emphasizing that such acts are criminal offences under the VAPP Law.
Comrade Imaobong Akwaowo cautioned members of the public to tread carefully in their interactions with others, reminding them that ignorance of the law is never a defence against criminal liability.

The team further highlighted the dangers of silence, warning that refusing to report cases of abuse allows perpetrators to continue harming others and undermines efforts to create a safer society. They therefore called on members of the public to become active partners in the fight against Gender-Based Violence by reporting incidents promptly and supporting survivors in their pursuit of justice.

The traders, who gave the advocacy team rapt attention throughout the exercise, expressed appreciation for the enlightenment campaign and actively sought clarification on issues affecting them. As part of the visit, the leader of the market women was presented with a copy of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law to serve as a reference for continuous awareness within the market community.

Victims of Gender-Based Violence were advised to report cases to the nearest Police Station, Room 8 of the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, the Agape Centre Sexual Assault Referral Centre at Immanuel Hospital, Eket, the Restoration Centre Sexual Assault Referral Centre at General Hospital, Ikot Ekpene, the Heartland Alliance Sexual Assault Referral Centre located at 26 Abel Damina Drive, Osongama Estate, Uyo, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), the Family Empowerment and Youth Reorientation Path Initiative at Plot 22, Unit F, Ewet Housing Estate, Uyo, as well as the GBV Response Units in all the Local Government Councils across the state.

Members of the public can also report cases or seek assistance through the dedicated GBV response lines: 09169009111, 09126101022 and 08023384818.

Executive Bills Will Further Drive Economic Transformation in A'Ibom — Sir Okon Okon

 

The Executive Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS), Sir Okon Okon, has described the three executive bills presented for public hearing on Monday June 15, 2026 by the State House of Assembly as strategic instruments for economic transformation in line with Governor Umo Eno's ARISE Agenda.

Sir Okon made the assertion while delivering a goodwill message at a public hearing on the bills held on Monday, June 15, 2026, at Luton Park Hotel, Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo, the temporary venue of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.

The bills under consideration were the Akwa Ibom Geographic Information Service Bill, the Public Procurement Bill, and the Akwa Ibom State Senior Citizen Agency (Establishment) Bill.

Commending the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno PhD for his prudent management of resources, sound fiscal policies, and the rapid development witnessed across the state since 2023, Sir Okon said the proposed Geographic Information Service Bill would unlock new opportunities in revenue administration, enhance the ease of doing business, drive digitisation in public administration, and position Akwa Ibom for increased efficiency and global best practice in public administration.

According to him, the Public Procurement Bill will strengthen transparency, accountability, and value-for-money in government spending, while the Senior Citizen Agency Bill will provide a structured framework for the welfare and care of elderly citizens in the state.

He also lauded the State House of Assembly for its commitment to due legislative process and the steps taken toward the passage of the bills into law, describing the lawmakers' efforts as critical to advancing good governance and sustainable development.

Sir Okon called on stakeholders and residents of the state to support the bills and the ARISE Agenda, noting that their successful implementation would further accelerate the state's development trajectory.

The public hearing was jointly organised by the House Committee on Appropriation and Finance, the Committee on Land, Housing and Urban Renewal, and the Committee on Women Affairs, Social Welfare and Cooperative Matters.

The event was declared open by the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, who was represented by the Member representing Ikono State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Asuquo Nana.

Also in attendance were commissioners, heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), civil society organisations, traditional rulers, security agencies, and other stakeholders.