Members of the Akwa Ibom diaspora have pledged their support to collaborate closely with the state government in driving comprehensive progress for both the region and its citizens, aligning with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda framework.
At a recent Biennial Conference convened in Uyo, the state capital, the Association of Akwa Ibom Communities’ Presidents Worldwide (ASACOP) gathered leaders and branch presidents representing over 21 countries. The event aimed to unify community heads and consolidate innovative development strategies to foster collective growth.
Addressing the conference theme, “Akwa Ibom State Across the World: Promoting Diaspora Values,” ASACOP’s International President, Obong Itoro Akpan-Iquot, highlighted the critical role of solidarity, collaboration, and self-sufficiency among Akwa Ibom natives both locally and internationally.
He encouraged compatriots to cultivate trust, work together, and dedicate themselves to enhancing the state’s prosperity through diverse sectors such as education, commerce, industry, and employment generation.
Recognizing education as a cornerstone for state advancement, the association awarded scholarships to 63 underprivileged students spanning all 31 local government areas.
Obong Iquot remarked, “Our greatest achievements will come from unity rather than isolated efforts. We, as Akwa Ibom people, hold the unique responsibility to nurture and develop our homeland. With a vast network of skilled professionals at our disposal, we proudly identify as Akwa Ibomites. Our vision is for Akwa Ibom to emerge as a leading state in Nigeria and beyond. To realize this, we advocate for the creation and support of indigenous enterprises and the employment of our own people.”
Demonstrating ASACOP’s commitment to these principles, Obong Iquot revealed that member Engr. Uwem Iquan is set to launch a table water manufacturing business in Nkim Itam, Itu LGA. This initiative, backed by an initial capital of N300 million, is expected to generate numerous jobs and bolster the local economy.
He further appealed for the formal inclusion of diaspora representatives in the governance and developmental agenda of Akwa Ibom. Specifically, he urged the State House of Assembly Speaker to champion legislation institutionalizing diaspora engagement.
The proposed bill, titled “A Bill to Establish the Akwa Ibom Indigenes in Diaspora and Internal Migrants Commission,” would create a structured platform to coordinate and integrate the contributions of Akwa Ibom natives living outside the state into policy-making and development projects.
In his keynote speech, Obong Ide Owodiong Idemeko, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Investment Corporation (AKICORP), underscored the immense economic potential that strategic partnerships between the government and affluent or influential diaspora members could unlock. He emphasized that the diaspora serves as a crucial asset in areas such as industrial growth, foreign exchange inflows, skill development, expertise sharing, global networking, and establishing enduring connections between Akwa Ibom and the international community.
Edidem Bassey Etim Edet, Chairman of the State Traditional Rulers Council and paramount ruler of Udung Uko LGA, commended ASACOP for its visionary leadership and for effectively representing Akwa Ibom abroad. He stressed that unity among Akwa Ibom people is essential to fully leverage the state’s rich human and natural resources for balanced and sustainable development.
