AKIRS Engages with Professionals, Business Associations on new Tax Reforms

 

Priscilla Akpanettot

The Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS) has met with professionals and business associations in the State to sensitize and discuss with them, gains of the new tax reforms.

The engagement which held at the ICT Conference Room of the State Accountant-General’s Office in Uyo on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, had in attendance, members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN).

Others are: Association of Private School Owners, Association of Community Pharmacists, Association of Private Medical Professionals, Nigerian Society of Engineers, Nigerian Institute of Management, Institute of Safety Professionals etc.

Enlightening the gathering, Chairman, AKIRS, Sir Okon Okon said the new national reforms which will be effective from January 2026 will bring far-reaching relief to many Nigerians, boost economic activities and drive growth and development across the country. 

Okon Okon who is a member of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, noted that the anxiety over the tax reforms was unfounded as the new tax regime was designed to correct inconsistencies in the national tax system, check the challenges of multiple taxation and curtail the activities of non-state actors and nuisance taxes. 

He noted that the existing tax system which was rooted in precolonial laws was marked by fiscal imbalance, inconsistent tax framework across jurisdictions, and multiple tax identifiers that adversely affected compliance by individuals and corporate organizations.

According to Okon who is also a Council Member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), the reforms have produced four new tax Acts meant to streamline tax administration in the country, namely: the Joint Revenue Board (3RB) Establishment Act 2025, which replaces the Joint Tax Board (JTB); the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) Establishment Act 2025, that replaces the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS); the Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA) 2025; and the Nigeria Tax Acts (NTA) 2025. These, he noted, come with reliefs for many Nigerians, including low-income-friendly-thresholds fiscalization; personal income tax exemptions for those earning below 1 million annually; lower PAYE for incomes less than N1.7m monthly; promotion of efficient, unified, tech-driven tax administration while basic services and commodities such as food, education, health, rents, transport, etc, will attract zero percent VAT. These measures he said, will ease pressure on individuals and families, while the introduction or a National Tax Identification Number (TIN) will encourage compliance, remove bureaucratic bottlenecks in the tax system, free up more revenue for government for development purposes, boost business expansion, create employment opportunities and make for global competitiveness.

On the implications and impact or the new reforms for Akwa Ibom State, the State's tax helmsman said it directly will improve the State's fiscal position as VAT formula has been revised from 50-55% percent, strengthen revenue administration and professionalism, eliminate consumption tax, provide better business environment and protect SMES, and target high net-worth individuals. 

He emphasized that the ongoing engagements with diverse groups was to dispel misconceptions, help taxpayers see the benefits of the tax reforms rather than be apprehensive, and to seek collaboration with critical stakeholders in propagating the right message. 

“We’re targeting the fruits of investments, not the capital. This is what we want the public to know. For instance, if your turnover as an SME is not up to N100m in a year, you won’t pay tax. The reform has also reduced the payment of Personal Income Tax to N1m, for those earning up to N1milion and above, which is against what used to be. There’ll be more sensitization to people in various categories and communities using handbills, fliers and every platform at our disposal”, he said.

Commending Sir Okon Okon for the initiative to interface with the stakeholders, the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah said there was no need for worries over the new reforms as it was meant to make for fairer, more transparent and efficient frame for tax administration in the country. He also commended him for his efforts in ensuring that the State revenue profile remains high.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Akparawa James Edet, Umana expressed optimism that the engagement would result in growth opportunities for the State.

“As stakeholders, this engagement provides guidance on how these reforms will affect operations in the State so we’re optimistic of a positive outcome that would rub off on the State’s economy”, he stated. 

Participants who spoke during the interactive session were glad to have been so enlightened. They asked for sustained collaboration with the AKIRS to enhance the knowledge gained, while promising to relate the information received to their members.

Statistics Indicate upward rise in engagement opportunities created by Christmas Village

 

Priscilla Akpanettot 

Statistics provided by the Akwa Ibom State Government have indicated an upward rise in engagement opportunities created by Christmas Village for Akwa Ibom people.

The Delivery Advisor to Governor Umo Eno on Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh gave the statistics on Monday, December 1, 2025 during the monthly briefing on the State Government's activities.

Udoh who informed that 3,920 skilled and unskilled workers were engaged last year, against 1,750 in 2023, revealed that there was a 67% increase last year from the number of local performing artistes who performed in 2023, while vendors registration last year recorded a 63% increase against what was documented in 2023. The figures for this year Sir Charles noted are already towering.

He described the Christmas Unplugged as a boost to the Christmas Village, blending entertainment with innovation. 

"The idea is to brand  Christmas Unplugged as Africa's premier family event, while showcasing Akwa Ibom as a unique destination", he said.

Giving the theme for this Year's celebration as "Celebrating Culture, Inspiring Innovation", the  Delivery Special Advisor said it would feature sustained excitement all through with lots of  food, drinks and cultural display.

Other major highlights would be children's party, carols with gospel artistes like Mercy Chinwo, Moses Bliss, Bobby Friga, Prosper Ochimana amongst others, on stage.

He therefore called on Akwa Ibom people to explore the fun, excitement and economic offerings of the event.

The briefing which was held to inform the public of achievements and activities of the State Governor in the month of November, 2025 highlighted efforts in healthcare, infrastructure, and empowerment.

 A fully equipped General Hospital was commissioned in Ikot Akpankuk, Ukanafun, marking a significant milestone in the state's healthcare sector. The hospital, the first functional one since 1976, is equipped with supporting infrastructure and re-engaged retired health workers.

The government also approved a ₦1.390 trillion budget for 2026, focusing on flagship projects, MSME/job creation, tourism, transportation, transparency, and human capital development. This budget represents a 16% reduction from the revised 2025 budget and prioritizes capital expenditure.

In a bid to promote unity and inclusivity, the government allocated ₦800 million for non-indigenous communities, including Igbo, Yoruba, Arewa, and Niger Delta groups. This initiative aims to foster communal development and social cohesion.

Furthermore, the Federal Government approved full international flight operations for Victor Attah International Airport, set to commence in Q1 2026. This development is expected to boost tourism, global connectivity, and foreign investment in the state.

In a gesture of goodwill, Governor Eno approved payment of the 13th-month salary, to be paid before December 20, with rice distribution to all villages for Christmas. These initiatives demonstrate the government's commitment to improving the lives of Akwa Ibom residents and promoting social welfare.

AKIRS Clears Air on Nigeria’s Tax Reforms

 

...says individuals earning less than N1m are exempted from tax payment

Priscilla Akpanettot

Against widely held belief that the new tax reforms instituted by the President Bola Tinubu’s administration will force the payment of tax on all Nigerians from January 2026, the Akwa Ibom Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS), has cleared the air and allayed fears of forceful taxation on individuals and corporate entities.

Speaking on Friday, November 28, 2025 at the NUJ Press Centre in Uyo, Chairman of the AKIRS, Sir Okon Okon said that the tax reforms will rather protect low-income earners and reduce inequality for individuals earning below ₦1 million per year.

Okon who was giving a synopsis of the implication of the 4 new tax reforms with journalists said the reforms will improve fairness and transparency in the delivery of basic social amenities as well as reduce cost of living pressures.

It would be recalled that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had on June 26, 2025 signed four key tax reform bills into law, collectively known as the Nigerian Tax Reform Acts. The reforms according to Okon Okon are aimed at overhauling the country’s fiscal governance, tax administration, and revenue generation; while improving a unified, technology-driven tax administration scheme for optimized revenue generation across tiers of government.

The AKIRS boss said the tax reform provides a simpler, unified tax system that is easier for businesses and individuals to understand and promotes improved fairness where large companies pay  minimum tax while small businesses and low-income earners receive exemptions and reliefs.

 

Furthermore, he posited that the reforms would bring about stronger digital and institutional capacity for tax collection, promote reduced duplication and multiple taxation, birth clearer investment incentives for both local and foreign investors and as well improve Nigeria’s ease of doing business.

Breaking down the reforms, the South South presidential committee member on tax reforms said that the Nigeria Tax Act, 2025 (NTA) would now ensure a comprehensive consolidation of major federal tax laws into one unified framework through the merging of CIT, PIT, VAT, CGT, Stamp Duties, Petroleum Taxes, and others into a single Act. It would as well broaden the tax base to include digital services, virtual assets, gaming, mining, petroleum operations, prizes, and grants; introduce a 4% Development Levy on assessable profits (replacing multiple old sectoral levies); implement a 15% minimum effective tax rate for large companies/MNEs; introduce Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) rules to limit profit shifting and as well updates rules on interest deductibility, capital allowances, free-zone incentives, and export tax reliefs.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025 (NTAA) which modernizes and harmonizes tax administration across all government levels will now standardize processes for tax filing, assessment, audits, and appeals, and introduce a unified digital system for taxpayers — making compliance easier and reducing bureaucracy; enhances transparency and efficiency in tax collection nationwide.

The Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, 2025 (NRSA) now will establish the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), replacing the former FIRS. It centralizes federal tax collection and taxpayer registration; implements stronger automation, data integration, and compliance tools and enhances capacity for revenue intelligence and enforcement.

While the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act, 2025 (JRBA) which replaces the Joint Tax Board (JTB) creates a coordinated revenue-administration body across federal, state, and local governments will now reduce multiple taxation by aligning roles across tiers of government; enable coordinated data sharing and joint enforcement and harmonize revenue policies for more predictable taxpayer obligations.

By implication, the AKIRS boss announced 50 tax exemptions and reliefs benefiting the masses to include: Personal Income Tax/PAYE, National minimum wage earners exempt, Annual income ₦1.2 million exempt, lower PAYE rates up to ₦20 million yearly income, gifts exempt, allowable Deductions, Pension contributions and NHIS contributions.

Others are: Loan interest for owner-occupied homes, Life insurance/annuity premiums, Rent Relief Allowance up to ₦500,000 or 20% of rent, Pensions & Gratuities, Pension funds under PRA exempt, Retirement benefits under PRA exempt and Loss-of-employment compensation up to ₦50 million exempt, among others.

He therefore called on members of the public to support the new tax regime, saying it was in the interest of the masses.

For Companies and Investments, the benefits include: CGT exemption for retail investors, pension funds, REITs, M&A, security lending; Capital losses deductible; No WHT on bonus shares; Stamp duty exemption on documents for stocks/shares transfers; Lower business costs via input VAT credits; CIT reduction from 30% → 25%; Harmonization of levies (TET, NITDA, NASENI, etc) and Repeal of 60+ taxes/levies down to < 10; moderation of excessive agency fees via Tax Ombud; and tax exemption for state government bonds.

‘‘Personal Income Tax exemption or final WHT on fixed income securities, lower WHT or exemptions to ease cash-flow pressures, final WHT on foreign investors’ dividends and interest, TIN exemption for foreign investors; Export Processing Zones; entities fully exempt if ≥ 75% of sales are exports; If 25% sales made locally, tax applies to local sales.’’

According to him, ‘‘From 1 January 2028, full taxation applies on all local-territory sales, Share Disposal, flat 10% CGT replaced by 0–30% progressive tax, disposals up to ₦150 million with gains ₦10 million exempt; and gains exempt if proceeds are reinvested in same year.

Commenting on implications for States and Local Government Areas, Sir. Okon stated that VAT formula was revised from 50% to 55% for States, distribution: Equity 50% | Population 20% | Derivation 30%, strengthened revenue administration and professionalism, improved compliance through Tax ID, Stamp Duties on individuals now belong fully to states, and tax harmonization eliminating multiple taxation.

‘‘States empowered to collect taxes for LGAs, consumption Tax abolished, full digitalization: e-invoicing, e-payments, no cash handling, better business environment and protection for SMEs, states administer virtual currency taxes, focus on High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs), National Tax Identification Number (NTIN) for all taxpayers.’’

On implications for the Nation, Okon said it would consolidate major tax laws into a unified framework, facilitate more progressive tax system that protects the poor and boosts equity, enhanced higher tax-to-GDP ratio and reduced dependence on oil, better environment for investment and business growth, remove wasteful levies and reduction of leakages, sustain stronger accountability via the Nigeria Revenue Service, improved tax refunds, better national data, and stronger fiscal planning. As well as harmonized national taxpayer identification.

Speaking on Economic and Operational Impact, he said the tax reform frees capital for expansion and job creation, smooth transition from small to medium scale, improves cash flow and reduces administrative bottlenecks, protects struggling firms, promotes recovery, encourages staff welfare and employment growth, enhances liquidity with faster VAT recovery, promotes consolidation without tax penalties and builds trust through Ombud oversight.

Earlier, the State Chairman of Nigerian Union of Journalists, Comrade Nsibiet John Udoh, commended the Chairman of AKIRS for the thought to sensitize journalists who he said would then take the message to members of the public.

In their separate remarks, the Commissioner for Finance, Emem Bob and his Information counterpart, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Ummah called for the organisation of more trainings for journalists to enable them better educate the masses on impacts and benefits of the new tax regime.

The Commissioner for Information called on journalists to join in the campaign to sensitise the masses on the Nigeria Tax Reforms, while assuring that Governor Umo Eno’s administration would put everything in place to facilitate the smooth take off of the reforms by January 2016.

 

Gov Umo Eno Directs Immediate Transmission of New Tax Acts to House oreTax Acts

 

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, Ph.D has directed the transmission of the New Tax Reforms Acts to the State House of Assembly for consideration and passage. 

According to the Commissioner for Information, Hon. Aniekan Umana, the directive followed last week's briefings on the Acts by the State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General of the State, Uko Essien Udom, SAN, during the Exco meeting which was presided over by the Governor. 

As published on the official website of the State Government titled, "Excerpts From The Enlarged Akwa Ibom Stare Executive Council Meeting Held on Wednesday, November 5, 2025", the State's information on boss wrote: "Following a presentation by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice on proposed Executive Bills, including, the Domestication and Harmonization of Taxes and Levies Bill and the Akwa Ibom State Property Tax Law in line with the recently enacted National Tax Act - Council approved that the three bills be transmitted to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly for consideration and passage".

The directive, it was learnt, was in preparation for the anticipated implementation of the New Tax Reforms regime in the country come January 1, 2026. The publication further indicated that the Executive Chairman of Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS), Sir Okon Okon, was also invited for presentation on the New Tax Laws and their implications for the State.

"Council also received a briefing from AKIRS on the new tax law and their implications for the State. In attendance were the Secretary to the State Government, Head of Civil Service, Honourable Commissioners, Special Advisers, Permanent Secretaries, and Heads of Extra-Ministerial Departments", Mr. Umana noted.

The prompt attention and speed given to the matter is understandable. The State's IGR in recent years has grown in heaps and bounds with trailblazing record that consecutively has placed Akwa Ibom amongst the 10 best performing States in IGR in the country, hence the State's excitement and AKIRS' top-gear level of preparedness towards the implementation of the Acts as the clock ticks towards the January deadline.

Such include intensive capacity building for directors and  management staff, essentially aimed at exposing and equipping them to the nitty-gritty of the New Tax Reforms Acts; all-encompassing sensitization programmes to be featured across conventional and new  media platforms; provision of an ICT and cutting-edge technology and digitalization centre to be in sync with national digital platforms; restructuring of offices with modern service-enhancing conveniences; and infrastructural transformation of the entire Revenue House, including provision of a sit-out lounge for customers and visitors, etc. 

At last week's management meeting, committees and subcommittees were also constituted to handle specific areas of need. 

The Executive Chairman, who is also Member, Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, therefore has assured tax payers that the reforms were meant to relieve Nigerians from tax burdens, especially with regards to multiple taxation. 

"Nigerians do not have to be unduly apprehensive over the New Tax Reforms Acts. Sincerely speaking, the reforms have come to relieve Nigerians", Sir Okon has assured. It would be recalled that on 26 June 2025, President Bola Tinubu signed into law a historic package of tax reform legislation, marking the most systematic and comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s fiscal architecture in decades.

New Task Reforms will Relieve many Nigerians of Tax Burden - AKIRS Boss

 

…Sets Up Implementation Committees, Strengthens Partnership with FRSC

The Executive Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS), Sir Okon Okon, has assured Nigerians that the new tax reforms recently introduced by the Federal Government will ease the tax burden on citizens, particularly those within the low-income bracket.

Sir Okon gave the assurance while speaking in Uyo during a courtesy visit by the Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Akwa Ibom State Command, Mr. Francis Ajatta, as part of ongoing engagements towards the implementation of the new reforms scheduled to commence in January 2026.

The AKIRS helmsman, who is also a member of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, explained that the reforms are designed to simplify the tax system and ensure fairness, transparency, and efficiency in revenue administration.

“Nigerians do not have to be unduly apprehensive about the new Tax Reform Acts. The reforms have actually come to relieve Nigerians. Many, especially those in the low-income category, will be exempted from tax obligations,” Sir Okon stated.

“People often fear that government wants to impose more taxes to raise revenue, but the opposite is the case. When the implementation begins, Nigerians—particularly PAYE earners—will realize that the reforms are indeed in their best interest,” he added.

Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS), Sir Okon Okon with the Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Akwa Ibom State Command, Mr. Francis Ajatta,

As part of preparations for the January 1, 2026 rollout, the Executive Chairman announced that the Service has constituted Implementation Committees to ensure a seamless transition. He also disclosed that the Board has commenced intensive training of staff, public sensitization campaigns across traditional and digital media, as well as digitalization of tax processes and infrastructure upgrades to enhance service delivery.

Sir Okon expressed appreciation to Governor Umo Eno, PhD, for directing him to continue in office and for the Governor’s consistent support towards efficient tax administration in the state.

Earlier, FRSC Sector Commander, Mr. Francis Ajatta, who assumed duty in Akwa Ibom in June 2025, said his visit was to formally introduce himself and strengthen the existing collaboration between the FRSC and AKIRS.

Ajatta commended the AKIRS Chairman for his proactive measures ahead of the reforms and highlighted key areas for collaboration, including addressing over 4,000 unclaimed driver’s licences, 1,800 expired licences, and the continued use of outdated number plates in the state.

In response, Sir Okon assured that AKIRS will continue to partner with the FRSC to improve compliance and public enlightenment. He, however, urged the Corps to reduce the waiting time for the collection of driver’s licences to encourage more motorists to retrieve theirs promptly.

The meeting further strengthened the working relationship between AKIRS and the FRSC, both of which play crucial roles in ensuring effective service delivery and compliance within the state.

100 Days After, NUJ beams with Pride

Priscilla Akpanettot

There’s a good thing about doing good. It is the good you feel about yourself for doing well. Anyone who has seen the Akwa Ibom State Council Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Nsibiet John recently will attest that his shine has been on another level since Saturday, the 2nd of August, 2025.

The shine implied here isn’t that which comes from the application of a skin-glow but that which comes from living one’s dream. It is the radiance that comes from your ability to solve problems and meet needs - a shine of fulfilment. Since his assumption of office as NUJ Chairman, this fine gentleman of the press has carried on the execution of his dreams for the Union with visible glee, steeze and flair, which have impressed on his comeliness and outlook, making him glow with pride. 

A hundred days after, one can observe without incongruity that the Union now beams with the radiance of Nsibiet John’s goodness, thoughtfulness and kindness, incorporated into his style of leadership – one established through clear goals and objectives which are aligned with the needs and aspirations of members.

Notable among his landmark achievements is building the capacity of over 100 members of the Union through training; enhancing their skills and knowledge for personal, professional, and economic growth for the attainment of financial independence. 

In terms of partnerships, the Office Holder has established relationships with a range of organizations, including government agencies, NGOs, and private sector companies which have accrued a number of benefits for members, including access to training and employment opportunities, and access to resources and expertise.

These significant partnerships have not only opened up new opportunities for members but also empowered them to contribute more effectively to the Union’s professional standing.

 Moreso, he has made the Press Centre a hub for learning, growth, and development, where members can access resources and support to achieve their goals.

Additionally, he enabled the availability of free internet access to members, boosting connectivity and information flow. He has also restored the water facility at the Secretariat, improving access to clean water for members and staff of the Union. This has had a major impact on the quality of life of users of the Secretariat premises and has helped to create a more conducive environment for work and study. He oversaw the renovation of the Press Centre, fixed bad facilities, revamped the generating set, and acquired a 100% fill cooper KVA generator. These infrastructure upgrades have improved the overall environment for members of the Union. Journalists can now visit the Union’s Secretariat to carry out their duties with ease without the discomfort of not having basic amenities. 

Following his understanding of the demands of the profession, Comrade John thought of the need for a standard recreation centre for members to ease off work stress. Thus, he partnered For the Love of Nigeria (FLON) for the construction of an International Football Court, which, upon conclusion, will meet help journalists unwind mentally and socially. This is non-exclusive of measures to promote work-life balance and to support physically challenged members. 

John, whose priority from the inception has been the improvement of members’ welfare hasn’t reneged on his words. Welfare packages have been issued out to members in need, while he ensures to physically attend and follow up on members’ situation/occasions. 

In addition to these achievements, Comrade John has brought new ideas and perspectives to the NUJ by fostering a culture of innovation and creativity, encouraging communication and feedback mechanisms within the Union. His regular meetings with members, stakeholders, and staff to ensure that everyone is informed and aligned with the Union’s goals and objectives have helped to build trust and confidence among members and created a sense of ownership and responsibility. This has, in turn, led to a significant increase in membership engagement and participation, with more members attending meetings and events and taking an active role in the Union. The appointment of new members into various sub-committees are testaments to this. 

Despite the progress made, operationalizing some initiatives fully remains a task, given logistical constraints. However, Nsibiet John has made an outstanding impact in his first 100 days, delivering value to members across the board.

 His leadership has brought significant benefits to the Union, and he is poised to sustaining the momentum to amplify benefits for members. 

As he continues to lead the Union, it is expected that he will build on the gains of his first 100 days and take it to greater heights. 

With his commitment to innovation, partnership, and member welfare, the Union is positioned for even greater success in the future.

Inoyo Toro Foundation Rewards Teaching Excellence the 18th time

 Inoyo Toro Foundation Rewards Teaching Excellence the 18th time

Priscilla Akpanettot

In its commitment to the sustenance of teacher-motivation in public secondary schools in Akwa Ibom State, the Inoyo Toro Foundation has again rewarded teachers for the 18^th successive time. This happened on Friday, November 7, 2025 at Watbridge Hotel in Uyo.

Following a thorough selection process, the event saw 6 teachers who came 2^nd position in Biology, Chemistry, Economics, English Language, Mathematics and Physics; go home with Two Hundred Thousand Naira each; while another 6 who came 1^st in the 6 subjects went home with Three Hundred Thousand Naira each.

Three Principals got Two Hundred Thousand, Three Hundred Thousand and Five Hundred Thousand Naira, as 3^rd, 2^nd and 1^st place winners, respectively; while Grand Mentors for each of the subjects got Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500,000).

Winners at the event

The second-prize winner for Biology was Anthony Akpan Essien of Ibesikpo Secondary Commercial School, Nung Udoe; while Nyakno Essien of McIntre Secondary Community School, Utu Abak emerged first prize winner.

For Chemistry, Nkereuwem Andrew Udo of Community Secondary School, Ibiaku Ibiono, Western Ibiono-Ibom came 2^nd and Udeme Felix Ekanem of Aka Offot Community Secondary School, Uyo, came 1^st.

In Economics, Glory Monday Umanah of Offot Ukwa Secondary Grammar School, Obio Offot emerged 2^nd, while Ndifreke Edet of Brotherhood Secondary School, Ikot Ide Akpakpan came 1^st.

The second-prize winner for English Language was Kufre Akpan Benson of McIntre Secondary Commercial School, Utu Abak; while Imoh Archibong of Cornelia Cornelly College, Afaha Oku emerged first-prize winner.

For Mathematics, Ofonime Okorie of Nduo Eduo High School, Eket came 2^nd and Emmanuel Akpan of Ikpe Community Secondary School, Ibam Edet in Ini came 1^st.  

In Physics, Blessed Sunday of Asong Community Secondary School, Asong, Mkpat Enin emerged 2^nd, while Michael Sunday Moses of Government Secondary School, Afaha Eket came 1^st.

Similarly, Uwem Jacob of Unity Model College, Obontong, Nsit Ibom emerged third-prize in the Principal’s category; Imo Etim Okori of Nigerian Christian Secondary School, Ukpom Abak came second-place, while Augusta Afahaenam Etukudo of Girls’ High School, Ikot Ibiok, Eket came first-place.

Grand Mentors were: Edidiong George Idioh of Ibesikpo Secondary Commercial School, Nung Udoe (Biology); Joshua Udo Udo of Lott Carey Baptist Secondary School, Afaha Obio Eno (Chemistry); Ubon-Obong Friday Archibong of McIntre Secondary Commercial School (English Language), Felix Oku Effiong of Girl’s High School, Ikot Ibiok, Eket (Physics) and Godswill Bradford Inyang of Salvation Army School, Efa, Etinan.

Speaking on the selection process, Chairman of the Award Screening Committee, Prof. Enobong Joshua explained that the screening test for selecting the winning teacher is in two parts. “The first part is an aptitude-based CBT aligned with the WAEC/NECO curriculum. The second part is an oral interaction between the facilitators and at most, 6 of those who pass the written test reasonably well…the first and runner-up prizes can be achieved only if a contestant scores at least, 70% and at least, 50%, respectively, in the tests”, he said.

He furthered that 200 teachers, made up of 10 teachers, 11 mentors and 9 Principals applied for the award exercise but only 150 of them participated in the CBT.

“Although this response shows improvement over 2024 figures, it still falls short of our expectation, given the large number of teachers … in our public secondary schools”, he worried, and encouraged more teachers in the public schools to apply for the awards exercise in the coming year.

                               Chairman of the Award Screening Committee, Prof. Enobong Joshua

He maintained that a good teacher can inspire hope and ignite imagination when adequately trained and motivated. This he noted, was the reason the Foundation was committed to rewarding teachers by helping them become more dedicated to their profession.  

Among other things, the retired Professor of Applied Mathematics listed the aims and objectives of the Inoyo Toro Foundation to include: encouragement of teachers of Science, Mathematics, English Language and some other endangered subjects in public schools; stimulation of awareness for the study of these subjects; promotion of healthy and positive competition for excellence among teachers and the offer of mentorship opportunities for public secondary school students in the State.

He therefore congratulated the awardees on their success, urging them to see their win as the beginning of a new journey in mentorship and collaboration with their colleagues for effective lesson delivery.

One of the Mentors, Mr. Effiong Esumo addressing students

Preceded by a Student Mentoring Clinic where students across 16 Local Government Areas of the State met and interacted with their mentors, the awards were majorly sponsored by Engineering Automation Technology Limited as well as individuals such as Mr. Boni Akpan (English Language), Barrister Aniekan Ukpanah (Mathematics), Clement Isong, Jnr. (Economics), Bassey Ukpong Udo and the family of Simon Etim (Principal Award).

In her Goodwill message, a pioneer member of the Lagos Business School and special guest at the event, Prof. Franca Ovajie appreciated the Inoyo Toro Foundation for the initiative to appreciate the efforts of teachers, describing it as a boost to the existing free education policy in the State. She also commended the award sponsors for keying into the Foundation’s teacher motivation initiative and called for more support from individuals and organizations.

Prof. Franca Ovajie at the event

Earlier, the Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Uyo and Chairman on the occasion, Prof. Aniekan Brown charged the students to not only aim towards certification but be certified to drive the needed change that will positively affect the society.

In his remarks, the Vice President and Principal Consultant, Service Business Development in West Africa at Mastercard and Guest Speaker, Mr. Unwana Esang extolled the virtues of teachers whom he described as the heartbeat of the society. He recalled his academic journey from cradle to adulthood and acknowledged the impact of his teachers on his life all the way. Speaking through by Mr. Effanga Effanga, the Guest Speaker charged the audience, students particularly, on success-consciousness. He impressed that excellence was not accidental but intentional and a product of hardwrok, integrity and community. For this reason, he urged his listeners to embrace team-work on their path to greatness, against solitary growth.

Chairman on the ocassion, Prof. Aniekan Brown

Responding to the gesture, the first-prize winner of the Principal Award, Mrs. Augusta Afahaemem Etukudo of Girls’ High School, Ikot Ibiok in Eket, was overjoyed at her feat. She expressed sincere thanks to the Foundation for rewarding her years of dedication in such manner. Describing the selection process as very transparent and objective, she attributed her win to ANCOPPS training she has attended over the years and Conference materials which she said have helped her fare well as Principal.

Another first-time winner and 2^nd prize winner for Chemistry, Mr. Nkereuwem Andrew Udo of Community Secondary School, Ibiaku Ibiono in Western Ibiono was visibly elated to have won the award on his first attempt. He said the award was a huge motivation to his career and promised to be a good ambassador of the Foundation.

Students at the mentoring session

A key highlight of the event was the presentation of a souvenir by the Inoyo Toro Foundation’s Teachers’ Alumni, to the Foundation’s Principal, Mr. Udom Inoyo. According to the Coordinator of the Alumni, Mr. Ephraim Jacob Inyangudo, the Foundation had been all they ever needed to upscale, bounce and shine in their respective subject areas. Himself a multiple Awardee of the Foundation in Physics, the FULLBRIGHT award winner assured that they would keep the Foundation’s flag flying wherever they went.

Meanwhile, the 2025 edition of the Teachers’ Award was staged alongside the 5^th Ray Ekpu Award for Investigative Journalism in Akwa Ibom State. It had Ekemini Simon of the Mail Newspaper as winner; Saviour Imukudo of Premium Times Newspaper as 1^st runner-up and Enwono-Abasi Elisha of the Crest Newspaper as 2^nd runner-up.  

Winner of the Ray Ekpu Award for Investigative Journalism, Ekemini Simon, flanked by Mr. Nsikak Essien (L) and Mr. Census Ekpu

According to the organisers, the award aims to promote the ideals of journalistic excellence, contribute to good governance in public office, impact the fight against corruption and impunity, support national unity and ethnic cohesion in Akwa Ibom State, champion human and individual rights, as well as combat societal ills such as rape and girl-child abuse.

Speaking on the criteria for selection, Chairman of the Award Screening Committee, Mr. Nsikak Essien said that depth of investigation which highlights facts, figures and relevant issues; adherence to journalistic excellence; style and language of presentation as well as the expected contribution of the report to good governance in the public sector were cardinal factors the Committee took into cognizance in choosing the three winners. He encouraged media houses and reporters to pursue investigative journalism, stressing that it was the crux of the practice.

Commenting on the development, the Akwa Ibom State Council Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Nsibiet John felicitated with winners of the 5^th Ray Ekpu Investigative Journalism Awards and commended the organizers for their consistency in promoting excellence in journalism practice.

The Chairman, NUJ AKS, Comrade Nsibiet John

He said the Award was an inspiration to the winners to continue upholding the values of professionalism, truth and accountability, and that the Union remains open to partnerships with individuals, organizations and institutions that would like to support the Union in any way possible.

Responding, the 2025 winner of the award, Ekemini Simon thanked the Foundation for the honour and recognition done him. “Knowing that a prize will come at the end of the year is itself a motivation for me”, he said, while thanking God for protection in the course of his duties. Simon who has won the prize for 4 years since it was initiated in 2021, said he has, and will continue to share practical knowledge with other journalists on financial and environmental reporting to enable the availability of newcomers to the investigative beat.

The event was well attended by members of the academia, corporate organisations, the media as well as lovers of education within and outside Akwa Ibom State.

Other attendees at the event