…Pledges growth and collaboration

By Chris Onuoha

In a historic celebration of unity and progress, the Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) Alumni Association Lagos State Branch marked a significant milestone with its maiden election and inauguration ceremony.

Held on March 30, 2025, at the prestigious Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio Hall in Ojuelegba, Lagos, the event showcased the commitment of AKSU graduates to fostering development and strengthening ties between their alma mater and the broader community.

The highlight of the ceremony was the swearing-in of the newly elected executives, administered by Barrister Francis Kumah. The leadership team includes Deacon Kufre-Abasi Akpanikot as Chairman, Comrade Otu Ubonabasi as Vice Chairman, Comrade Mbet Michael as Secretary, Comrade Utibe David as Assistant Secretary, Comrade Richard Okon as Treasurer, Comrade Peace Akpekong as Financial Secretary, Deacon Gideon Udoh as Publicity Secretary, and Comrade Peace Lawrence as Welfare Secretary.

In his inaugural address, Chairman Deacon Kufre-Abasi Akpanikot, who also served as the first elected SUG President of AKSU (2015/2016), expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead and paid tribute to past leaders who played pivotal roles in the university’s establishment and growth.

He acknowledged former Governor Victor Attah, who conceived the idea of the institution, and Senator Godswill Akpabio, the former governor and current Senate President of Nigeria, for bringing the university to reality. He also commended the contributions of former Governor Udom Emmanuel and the incumbent Governor, Pastor Umoh Eno, for their unwavering support in shaping AKSU’s development.

Special recognition was given to the university’s leadership, particularly Vice Chancellor Prof. Nse Essien, for his dedication to advancing AKSU. The chairman also appreciated the efforts of past Vice Chancellors, Prof. Eno Ibanga, now the Commissioner for Works and Fire Service in Akwa Ibom State, and the late Prof. S. W. Petters, for their impactful tenure.

Acknowledging the efforts behind the successful formation of the Lagos branch, Deacon Akpanikot expressed gratitude to the Electoral Board, led by Engr. Andrew Aman, and the national executives, particularly National Publicity Secretary Engr. Thomas Obot and National President Comr. Uwakmfon Michael, for their support in establishing alumni branches across states.

As part of his vision to empower members, the chairman announced the formation of the Career Advancement and Employment Support Committee, an eleven-member delegation chaired by Comrade Umoh Samuel Ime. The committee aims to create career opportunities and support alumni in professional growth.

The newly inaugurated executives outlined their mission to promote AKSU’s reputation globally through the achievements of its alumni. They committed to creating platforms for members to network, excel, and give back to the university. Another key objective is fostering stronger ties between Lagos and Akwa Ibom State through academic collaborations, corporate social responsibility initiatives, and partnerships with relevant agencies to drive development.

The leadership also expressed its intent to collaborate with prominent institutions such as the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos State University (LASU), and private universities to establish exchange programs and open greater opportunities for members and students.

In his concluding remarks, Deacon Akpanikot encouraged members to embody the excellence that Lagos represents, urging them to strive for outstanding achievements in all endeavors. He also extended appreciation to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for hosting the alumni body and fostering an environment conducive to their growth.

The event, moderated by renowned on-air personalities Comrade Mbet Michael and Comrade Atte Emmanuel Bassey, featured goodwill messages from National Publicity Secretary Akparawa Thomas Obot, Mrs. Rose Enoobong Charles, and Comrade Samuel Ime. They expressed confidence in the new leadership and emphasized the importance of active participation and social engagement. The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Vice Chairman Comrade Otu Ubonabasi, reaffirming the executives’ dedication to excellence, followed by a closing prayer by Comrade Utibe David.