Essien Itiaba Community in Nsit Atai Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State marked its annual Essien Itiaba Day with a colourful celebration at St. Pius Primary School, Ikot Itieudung on Friday, December 26, 2025.
The event’s highlight was the installation of the Executive Chairman of Nsit Atai Local Government Area, Hon. Prince Anthony Nyong, as “Adaha Essien Itiaba.”
The celebration drew sons and daughters of the community from far and near, showcasing unity, tradition, and communal pride. The conferment of the Adaha Essien Itiaba title on Prince Nyong earned widespread admiration from residents and guests.
Speaking after his installation, Prince Nyong described the honour as humbling and symbolic of the community’s recognition of service and respect for tradition.
He expressed gratitude to the people of Essien Itiaba for the honour and acknowledged past and present leaders for sustaining peace and unity in the community. He also pledged ongoing support for the cultural growth and development of Essien Itiaba.
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The event featured the recognition of deserving sons and daughters of the community, alongside the launch of a ₦50 million fund for the renovation of Asan Essien Itiaba, a historic communal heritage.
In addition, the title “Obong Essien Itiaba” was conferred on the Paramount Ruler of Nsit Atai Local Government Area, HRM Edidem Peter Effiong Okon. Traditional dances, cultural performances, and symbolic rites added colour and significance to the celebration.
Earlier in the program, the President General of Essien Itiaba Community, Elder Ekpenyong Daniel, paid tribute to the late former President General and community icon, Otuekong Raphael Bassey, acknowledging his lasting contributions to the unity and growth of the community. A moment of silence was observed in his honour.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Obong Emmanuel Okon, described Essien Itiaba as a culturally mature community and urged all sons and daughters to remain united in preserving tradition and promoting communal development.
