New Year Message: Oku Ibom Ibibio Wants Leaders To Address Challenges Facing People

The foremost traditional ruler in Akwa Ibom State, the Oku Ibom Ibibio and president general of the supreme council of Ibibio Traditional Rulers, His Eminence, Ntenyin (Dr.) Solomon Daniel Etuk has enjoined leaders all levels to constantly place the interests of local governments, states and nation above personal concerns.

The Ibibio patriarch, who is also the chairman, Akwa Ibom State Council of Chiefs and chancellor, Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU), said for all round peace, tranquility and development in the local governments, states and the nation; indigenes, particularly public officers and politicians must team up and be patriotic in their activities.

In a New Year message, Oku Ibom Ibibio urged those entrusted with responsibilities at all levels to be dutiful, honest and committed to ensuring that their actions meet with the expectations of the local governments, states and the populace.

The patriarch said, “As we enter a new year, there are widespread hopes for a resilient and prosperous society. Our people are looking up to the government for a better life, employment, good education and enhanced security. These expectations can be addressed substantially if there is total commitment by those saddled with responsibilities in service delivery.

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“Every part of Nigeria is blessed with enormous resources. We have to look inward and effectively harness our resources. There are huge potentials in agriculture. We have to deepen our efforts in the agricultural sector. Over dependence on petroleum resources is no longer healthy.

Ntenyin Etuk called for specific development of platforms that will encourage local government, states and the nation to mobilize youths into agriculture and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).

“From local governments to states and the nation, collaborative programmes should be devised to encourage our youths to venture into agriculture, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), ICT and skill acquisitions, among others to reduce unemployment in the country,” he explained.

Speaking specifically on Akwa Ibom, Oku Ibom Ibibio called for unity and teamwork among public officers and politicians so as to sustain the pace of development in the state.

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“We got Akwa Ibom State created after many decades. We have the responsibility to hold it dearly. Let us be our brothers keepers. Let public officers and politicians touch lives to complement government efforts. The spirit of charity should be deepened in the society.

“Those who are well to do should give support to others. It will help to reduce complaints of lack and want.  I sincerely appeal to government to encourage individuals, groups or public officers disposed to extending hands of fellowship to others.

“I appeal to all indigenes to support the Governor Udom Emmanuel led administration so that the completion agenda will be realized to the benefit of all,” Oku Ibom Ibibio added.