We’ve reasons to celebrate, says governor as A’Ibom marks 32nd anniversary

Thousands of Christians in Akwa Ibom state on Sunday converged on the banquet hall ground of government house, Uyo, to thank God for ushering them into September, the anniversary month of the state.

The event, which which was preceded by a one-day fast declared by government, signalled the commencement of activities to mark the State’s anniversary celebration.

In his remarks during the event, Udom Emmanuel, the governor, expressed appreciation to God for his benevolence to the state and its people.

“Akwa Ibom has several reasons to be grateful to God as the state clocks 32, pointing to landmark achievements including infrastructure, security and industries to create employment and generate wealth and boost the state economy,” he said.

“At 32, the state has attained adulthood and could cater for itself and that calls for the celebration of the state’s creation anniversary on 23rd September with pomp and ceremony.

“The anniversary will feature the commissioning of Digital Electrical sub-station, a first of its kind in the country, the kings flour mill and the plywood industries as well as inspection of some secondary health centers equipped with high definition digital facilities.”

Emmanuel said the inauguration would be performed by Vice-President Yemi Osibanjo while some of the road infrastructure will be inaugurated by President Muhammadu Buhari.

He said by the grace of God Akwa Ibom would become a destination of choice with the Ibom Air the state-owned airline, dual carriage roads and many other infrastructure scattered across the state.

These reasons, he maintained, justifies the thanksgiving and noted that the theme, “For I believe God”, is very apt because God has lifted the state from economic doldrums to an economic hub and with the coming on stream of the Deep seaport the youths would be gainfully employed and the business men and women would have what to do to earn a living.

He thanked the fathers of faith for their sacrifice of love by waiting on God to give guidance and blessings to the state and the people.

He said he believed that the same God who made the vision of state creation in “our forebears actualized their dreams with the creation of Akwa Abasi Ibom state and urged the people to close ranks against dissenting voices but to focus on Only God who according to him is not an author of confusion”.

Earlier, during a summit held at banquet hall, the governor said the initiative for the development of the state to its enviable height is not the responsibility of the government alone and called on all critical stakeholders to collaborate to change the narrative and make Akwa Ibom a state with distinction.