Akwa Ibom Senatorial Office Lists Achievements, Rebuts Claims of Poor Representation

The Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District Liaison Office has rejected recent claims questioning the quality of representation at the National Assembly by Senator Aniekan Bassey, describing the allegations as misleading and unsupported by facts.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Director of Publicity and Spokesperson of the Liaison Office, Dr Eventus Edem, the office said it was compelled to respond to public comments credited to a former federal lawmaker, Rt. Hon. Daniel Akpan, in order to “set the records straight for the benefit of the public”.

Dr Edem said while dissenting opinions are a legitimate part of democratic discourse, assessments of public officeholders must be guided by evidence, balance and verifiable records rather than sweeping generalisations.

According to the statement, senatorial representation should be evaluated on four key pillars: legislation, oversight, advocacy and constituency development. It argued that Senator Aniekan Bassey has demonstrated “substantial and visible performance” across all four areas since assuming office.

On legislation, the Liaison Office listed several bills sponsored by the senator, including amendments to the Price Control Act, the Agricultural Research Council Act, the Companies and Allied Matters Act, and proposed establishment bills for institutions such as a National Centre for Renewable Energy Research in Uruan and a Federal College of Fishery and Aquatic Studies for the district. It added that Senator Bassey currently serves on key Senate committees and is also a member of the ECOWAS Parliament.

The statement further highlighted the senator’s role in national advocacy through motions on issues such as crude oil theft, the Petroleum Industry Act, the exit of international oil companies, alleged annexation of mangrove islands in Mbo Local Government Area by Cameroon, and human trafficking.

On constituency development, the Liaison Office said Senator Bassey has invested heavily in education, youth empowerment, healthcare and infrastructure. It cited the delivery of ICT centres and learning equipment to schools across the district, sponsorship of over 3,000 students for UTME registration, scholarships, digital skills training, and grants and equipment support amounting to hundreds of millions of naira.

Healthcare interventions, according to the statement, include free medical and surgical outreaches across the three federal constituencies in the district, alongside the supply of drugs and consumables to health centres. It also listed solar streetlights, boreholes, classroom blocks and facilitated road projects as part of the senator’s infrastructure footprint.

Dr Edem said the claims of “absence” or “failure” in representation do not align with what he described as “documented, visible and verifiable achievements”, noting that constituents could independently confirm projects and programmes across local government areas.

He added that the achievements of the senator are publicly documented and available at the Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District Liaison Office in Uyo.

The statement concluded by urging political actors to engage in issue-based debates and constructive criticism, stressing that democratic accountability is strengthened by facts rather than rhetoric.

Akwa Ibom ALGON Dismisses False Report on Alleged Rejection of Federal Allocation

 

PRESS STATEMENT

Akwa Ibom ALGON Dismisses False Report on Alleged Rejection of Federal Allocation

The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, has dismissed as false and malicious a report published by The Crest Newspaper alleging that Local Government Chairmen rejected “pilfered” federal allocation. ALGON states clearly that no such incident occurred, and the report is a misrepresentation of facts aimed at misleading the public and creating unnecessary tension.

For the avoidance of doubt, no Local Government Chairman in Akwa Ibom State rejected any federal allocation. Indeed, the suggestion that Chairmen would dare a Governor who has consistently demonstrated strong support for the local government system is unfounded and illogical. 

On the contrary, following a shortfall in the federal allocation, the Akwa Ibom State Government promptly intervened by providing grants to local governments to cushion the impact and ensure smooth administration at the grassroots.

ALGON further affirms that local government administrations across the state are up to date in the payment of salaries and statutory entitlements, including the payment of the 13th month salary to workers in December. This reflects the commitment of both the local governments and the supportive role of the state government in prioritising workers’ welfare.

It is also important to place on record that His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, assisted in the payment of backlog gratuities owed to local government retirees, particularly in view of the shortfall in the November federal allocation shared in December and ALGON appreciates His Excellency for his benevolence in that regard.

ALGON emphasizes that the Akwa Ibom State Government has consistently augmented local government allocations whenever there is a shortfall, a long-standing practice that predates the current administration of Pastor Umo Eno, PhD.

ALGON therefore urges the media to uphold professionalism, verify facts, and refrain from sensational reporting capable of undermining public confidence. The Association remains committed to transparent governance and continued collaboration with the state government for the development of Akwa Ibom State.

e-signed:

Dr Uwemedimo Udo

Chairman, ALGON

Akwa Ibom State Chapter

12012026

Sir & Lady Okon Okon Host New Year Thanksgiving and Community Get-Together

...10 students in tertiary institutions got scholarship 

Sir Okon Okon and his wife, Barrister Uwem Okon, on Thursday, 1st January 2026, gathered members of the Ekpene Ibia community in Uruan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State for a New Year Thanksgiving and Community Get-Together, held at the country home of the hosts in Ekpene Ibia, Uruan local government area.

The event which was organized to thank God for His goodness and to usher the community into the New Year on a bright note, brought together community stakeholders, leaders, women, youths, friends and invited guests in an atmosphere of joy, fellowship and celebration characterised by optimism and great expectations in the new year. Activities at the event included a thanksgiving service marked by soul-lifting songs of praise to God, intercessory prayers, community interaction, ballad rendition, exhortation, colourful cultural performances that showcased the rich heritage of the people of Ekpene Ibia, presentation of gifts items, and award of scholarships to 10  students in tertiary institutions, two from each ward of neighbouring communities along the Mbak Etoi-Issiet Beach Road that comprises a total of 5 wards, with 4 in Uruan LGA and 1 in Uyo LGA.

Delivering a sermon during the thanksgiving service on the topic "Choices and Mission in Life",  Rt. Rev. Edem Offiong,  Bishop of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Mbiaso, who drew his exhortation  from Genesis 19:17 and 1 Samuel 30:8 stated that those like David and Lot who acknowledge and rely on God in their lives do not experience failures. Commending the Okon family for always putting God first in their lives and their humanitarian dispositions, the Man of God also described thanksgiving as a vital expression of appreciation to God   which attracts more blessings. He  encouraged members of the community to always thank God for His goodness in the past year while seeking His guidance and direction in the New Year.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Sir Okon Okon, who is the Executive Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS), noted that the New Year Thanksgiving and Community Get-Together is an annual event instituted by the family to express love, gratitude, and unity within the community. According to him, the gathering provides an opportunity for community members to collectively thank God for His immeasurable benevolence, interact as one family, share concerns and meals together, and benefit from scholarships awarded to deserving students through the Sir and Lady Okon Scholarship Foundation, as part of the family’s contribution to community development.

Sir Okon further noted that the initiative reflects the inclusive and people-centred leadership philosophy of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D., who, through the ARISE Agenda, has emphasized togetherness and unity as catalyst for sustainable development and collective progress in the State.

He said, "Like we have done previously every first day of a new year, it was necessary we gather again in 2026 to thank God for preserving our lives in the past year, handover ourselves, our dreams for the new new year, and the community to Him".

Also speaking, Lady Uwem Okon Okon, a legal practitioner and fitness expert, described thanksgiving and sharing as a long-standing family tradition that strengthens their bond with God and kindredship with Ekpene Ibia and the wider Uruan community. She noted that the event gives the family a deep sense of belonging and provides an avenue to positively impact lives in practical and meaningful ways.

In their testimonies, two previous beneficiaries of the Sir Okon & Uwem Foundation, Mr. Imebong Edem, who recently graduated from the University , and Mr. Imoh Etim, who was supported with business grant, both appreciated the benefactors for giving them a footing in life.

High point of the event was the bestowment of the Chieftaincy title of "Obong Unwana" on Sir Okon Okon by the Council of Chiefs, Ikot Otoinye, Uruan local government area, in recognition of his contributions to the growth and development of Uruan and Akwa Ibom State.

Present at the event were prominent sons and daughters of Uruan Local Government Area, including members of Ekpene Ibia Village Council, led by His Highness, Obong Sebastian Okon; His Highness, Col Etim Nyong (rtd) and wife; House Member, representing Uruan in the State House of Assembly, Dr. Itorobong Etim; Very Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Efiok of St. Dominic Catholic Church of Perpetual Adoration, Brooks Street, Uyo; MD/CEO, Ibom Mortgage Bank,  Pastor Ime Okon; friends from the Diaspora led by Barr. Hope Umanah, among others.

Ibom Mortgage Bank names Sen Emmanuel Ibokessien, others as Outstanding Customers of the Year

Priscilla Akpanettot

The Chairman, Board of Directors of Ritman Group of Companies, Sen. Emmanuel Ibokessien has received the Ibom Mortgage Bank’s Outstanding Customer Support/Loyalty Award, alongside others, for being supportive and loyal to the Bank for 30 years.

The Award was presented by the Bank’s MD/CEO, Pst Ime Okon on Friday, December 26, 2025 at the Bank’s Dinner/Awards Night held at Watbridge Hotel, Uyo; as part of events marking its 30th Anniversary celebration.

Presenting the Award, the MD/CEO applauded Sen. Ibokessien for being truthful to the bargain struck with him to clean up the long-standing debt he owed the former Akwa Savings and Loans Investment Limited, and for continuing with them as a loyal customer after paying back the loan.

“He didn’t just clean it up but he is one of our best customers today”, the MD/CEO remarked.

Receiving the Award, Sen. Ibokessien also commended Pst. Ime Okon for the role he played in the repayment of the long-standing loan. 

“I decided to work with him because I saw that he is a good man. And having fully paid back the loan I got; I’ve met him for more loans and he has been giving, and I have been paying back” he announced with glee.

Others in Sen. Ibokessien’s Award category were: Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation (AKICORP), Chemoplus Resources Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Aniefiok Veronica Akpan, Ouvic Resources & Confectionary Enterprise, Ibom Paints Limited, Basse Engineering & Mitchel Company, Mr. Daniel Eduouk, Prince Eddy Investment Limited and Enets Technologies.

Earlier in his remarks, Pst Okon appreciated Governor Umo Eno for the support and encouragement given them to ensure the functionality of the Ibom Mortgage Bank, while expressing optimism that the bank will attract fast acceptability in the State.

He also commended the board, management and staff of the bank for their tireless efforts and commitment to service which according to him has raised the standard of the bank to an enviable height.

He enumerated the achievements of the bank to include, revitalisation of the bank, 300% profit, employment of over 1000 indigenes, remodeling of delivery processes, fully digitalization of the operation of the bank.

Others are, improved staff welfare scheme, robust E-Channels infrastructure) platforms, customize mobile App, PoS, ATM cards, internet banking, PayDirect.

Okon further disclosed that the bank under his watch rendered what he termed as top -class professional services to their customers and appreciated customers and stakeholders in the banking industry for their support and the trust reposed on them. 

“As we mark 30 years today, we take pride in our journey and look forward to more feats.

 We celebrate 30 years of unwavering commitment to excellence, 30 years of building affordable homes; 30 years of building career, 30 years of resilience in mortgaging and 30 years of supporting the State, while restating our vision to remain one of Nigeria’s leading Mortgage Bank”, he stated. 

At the leadership category, the Chairman, Akwa Ibom Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS), Sir Okon Okon received the transformational leadership award; the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Nsikan Linus Nkan got the award of a decade of sacrificial service while the MD/CEO got the pillar of support and transformational leadership award.

The event which was attended by the Chairman, Board of Directors of the Bank, Mr. Peter Udo and former MDs/CEOs of the Bank, featured the cutting of the 30th Anniversary cake and a musical presentation by Progress Effiong, a gospel artiste.

Ibom Mortgage Bank Announces availability of Housing Loan for Akwa Ibom people

 

Priscilla Akpanettot 

Ibom Mortgage Bank has announced the availability of  pocket-friendly loans for citizens and residents of Akwa Ibom State to help them own or renovate houses. 

This information was given by the Board of Directors at the bank's end of Year Board Meeting/Press Briefing on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at the bank's Corporate Headquarters along Olusegun Obasanjo Way (Abak Road), Uyo.

The briefing was part of activities marking Ibom Mortgage Bank's 30th Anniversary celebration, where the Chairman, Board of Directors, Mr. Peter Udoh; Managing Director of the Bank, Pastor Ime Okon and Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS), Sir Okon Okon gave the assurances of a seamless process for the application.

To be eligible, interested individuals must have a National Housing Fund (NHF) Account, which allows them to save towards their housing project for a minimum of six months. The bank will then generate a seed fund from these savings to support a person's building or renovation project.

Formerly known as Akwa Savings and Loans Investment Limited, the Chairman, Board of Directors, Mr. Peter Udo said, it was necessary to change the identify of the Bank to raise its standard, and make it compete favourably with other financial institutions within and outside the State.

He furthered that the new name coincides with the celebration of the 30th year of unbroken mortgage banking services in the State, followed by the intensive rebranding of the bank.

"The new name of the bank is a significant journey of Akwa Savings and Loans Ltd, we have grown above turbulence and we would stand firm for the betterment of the state economy and our customers”, he said.

He enumerated the achievements of the bank to include, revitalisation of the bank, 300% profit, employment of over 1000 indigenes, remodeling of delivery processes as well as full digitalization of the operations of the bank.

Others are: improved staff welfare scheme, robust E-Channels infrastructure) platforms, customize mobile App,PoS, ATM cards internet banking, PayDirect and more.

In his remarks, the MD, Ibom Mortgage Bank, Pastor Ime Okon encouraged eligible individuals to take advantage of the offer and become proud homeowners with ease. 

He persuaded members of the public to walk into any of the bank's branches in Uyo, Ikot Ekpene, Oron and Eket for enquires; assuring that there were packages for everyone, regardless of their occupation and work type. 

"Just walk up to us, open an account and we'll put you through the process. It's very seamless and we're here for you", he reassured. 

Speaking on the bank's antecedents, the Chairman, AKIRS, Sir Okon Okon noted that Ibom Mortgage Bank has demonstrated consistent profitability over the last 4-5 years, boasting as the lowest non-performing loan record in the industry.

He therefore encouraged people living in Akwa Ibom to patronize the bank for their housing plans without fear or reservation. 

Meanwhile, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John in his remarks, made a case for the subsidization of the housing loan for low-income earners, including journalists in the State and also encouraged members of the public to key into the offer.

Activities marking the bank's 30th Anniversary include: MD/CEO Award Nite on Friday, 26th December 2025 and a Thanksgiving Service at Living Faith Church, Mbiabong on Sunday, 28th December, 2025.

The bank had earlier embarked on a Road Walk from the Head Office at Abak Road to Oron Road in Uyo, with a stop-over at the orphanage, on Saturday, 6th December, 2025.

Jan 1st not deadline for Tax ID Obtainment - AKIRS Clarifies

Priscilla Akpanettot

The Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS) has again reiterated that the deadline for one to obtain their Tax Identification Number is not January 1st, 2026.

The Service has also refuted claims that people would not be able to access the money in their bank accounts or carry out financial transactions if they do not obtain their Tax ID before January 1st, 2026.

The Service gave this information in view of the anxiety and fear by members of the public ahead of the Jan 1st, 2026 new tax reforms implantation.

Briefing the organized private sector on the implications of new tax reforms on Monday, December 22, 2025 at the State Secretariat in Uyo, Chairman of the AKIRS, Sir Okon Okon described the claims as untrue, and stressed that access to banking activities will not be denied.

"What we're saying is that nobody's account will be blocked or unusable after January 1st, 2026. So, allow your money to remain where it is". The money in your account will not, and cannot be taxed, either", he emphasized.

"The deadline for obtaining your tax ID is not January 1st, 2026. So, there shouldn't be anxiety in the process of obtaining the Tax ID. January 1st, 2026 is when the new tax reforms will be effected", he stressed.

Against popular suggestions, the Member of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms noted that the new national tax reforms will bring great relief to many Nigerians, boost economic activities, and drive growth and development across the country.

He listed some impacts of the new tax reforms to include: significant improvement in IGR; more efficient revenue administration, seamless harmonization and collaboration with State systems and structures; removal of roadblocks for revenue collection and elimination of multiple taxation. 

Among other advantages, Okon Okon said the new regime will also boost the State's fiscal position as VAT formula has been revised from 50% to 55%; strengthen revenue administration and professionalism; eliminate consumption tax, offer improved business environment, and more profitable activities for SMEs, etc.

He noted that part of the ongoing engagements was to dispel misconceptions, help taxpayers see the benefits, and to seek collaboration with critical stakeholders in propagating the right message.

Also a Fellow and Council Member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Okon stressed that there was no need for anxiety over the tax reforms as the new tax regime was intentionally designed to simplify the national tax system, check multiple taxation, and curtail the activities of non State actors and nuisance taxes.

He furthered that the existing tax system which was rooted in colonial and archaic  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, the reforms have birthed four new tax Acts designed to consolidate and streamline tax administration in the country, namely, the Joint Revenue Board (JRB) 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, personal income tax exemptions for those earning below one million naira annually; 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 argued, will ease pressure on individuals and households, while the introduction of a national Tax Identification Number (TIN) will boost compliance and catalyse economic planning at both national and subnational levels.

"So, you only need to have a Tax ID just like you need a National ID. It's basically an essential information everyone must have", he clarified.

Responding, the organized private sector described the sensitization as "enlightening, informative, necessary, and timely", adding that it has provided them with informed preview of what the reforms were about and has also fortified their members against the misconceptions in public space.

Speaking separately on behalf of the groups, the Branch Controller of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Uyo, Mrs. Nwabukwu Njideka; a Representative of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Eket, Mr. Aniedi Ikoiwak; Branch Manager, Zenith Bank, Udo Udoma, Uyo, and MD/CEO, Ibom Mortgage Bank, Pastor Ike Okon appreciated the engagement programme, and the AKIRS boss for his presentation which they said has adjusted perceptions on the new reforms, helped them to begin to focus on its benefits and prepare for January 1, 2026.

The AKIRS has so far taken it's message of awareness on the new tax reforms to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council; the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) as well as other stakeholders and sectors in preparation for the January 1st implementation.

First Lady Gifts Fifty Million Naira to 250 elderly citizens in Akwa Ibom

 

‎
Priscilla Akpanettot

‎The First Lady of Nigeria, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, CON has gifted a total of Fifty Million Naira (N50,000,000) to 250 elderly citizens in Akwa Ibom State.

She made the presentation on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at the Banquet Hall of the Akwa Ibom State Government House, Uyo.

The gesture which was done under the umbrella of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) saw each elderly citizen receive the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Naira (N200,000).

Presenting cheques to the beneficiaries, Senator Oluremi said that the gesture was part of ongoing efforts to ensure that elderly citizens live with dignity and joy, in a nation that genuinely cares for its own.

"Since the inception of this administration in 2023, the Renewed Hope Initiative has made it a tradition to celebrate our senior citizens every December, in recognition of their invaluable contributions to nation-building", she said.

"Through this scheme, we have continued to express our gratitude and care for the men and women who have laboured to build the Nigeria we are all proud to be part of today", she added.

She stressed that the scheme aims to support 250 vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 and above across the 36 States of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory, and veterans from the Defence and Police Officers' Wives Association (DEPOWA).

"These nine thousand five hundred (9500) selected beneficiaries will receive Two Hundred Thousand Naira (N200,000) each.
The total sum to be disbursed is One Billion, Nine Hundred Million Naira (N1,900,000,000) as approved by the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative", she remarked.

Represented by Lady Helen Obareki who coordinates the Office of the First Lady in Akwa Ibom State, Tinubu emphasized the importance of prioritizing the elderly, saying they have walked difficult paths so that the younger generations may have smoother roads to travel.

"It is therefore our moral duty, and indeed our joy, to ensure that they live their twilight years in comfort, good health, and dignity", she stated.

While encouraging the recipients to find joy in old age, the President's Wife charged them to find purpose as well in community, compassion, and care.

"Remember that ageing gracefully is not just about longevity but about being surrounded by love, support, and respect.
I encourage you to continue playing your part by staying healthy and active. Nurture both your body and mind through regular exercise and meaningful engagement", she advised, and thanked them for their services, sacrifices and prayers for Nigeria.

She prayed God's blessings on them, while wishing them good health, peace, and renewed hope.

In her remarks earlier, the State Focal person for the RHI, Mrs. Emem Orok, mentioned that the Initiative was a Support Scheme of Sen. Oluremi Tinubu to provide relief and renewed hope to the elderly and thus remind them that they are deeply valued, loved and remembered.

Also, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Inibehe Etukudo, in a goodwill message commended the First Lady for the Initiative and called on members of the public to emulate the gesture.

Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Abasiama Idiong, was full of appreciation to Sen. Oluremi Tinubu for her magnanimity. He described the present as a timely gift, noting that it would significantly meet their needs.

The empowerment which was themed: "Finding Joy in Old age" was the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) since it's launch in 2023.