Exploring the State of Akwa Ibom in Nigeria

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HISTORY

The collective yearnings and expectation of Akwa Ibom people for a State of their own had been long and persistent. Predating the independence of our country, the struggle for geo-political identity for the area and its people had suffered twist and turns along the pathway. But buoyed by the justness of their cause, the people persisted until their erstwhile remote dream became a reality when, on September 23, 1987, Akwa Ibom State came into being as Nigeria’s 21st State out of the former Cross River State.

PEOPLE

The people are generally believed to have originated from one ancestral stock, and are made up of three distinct ethnic groups of Ibibio, Annangs and Oro. The State is so blessed that there is no language barrier among them as Ibibio is spoken and understood among all linguistic groups. But officially, English is spoken.

Akwa Ibom people are as industrious and resourceful as they are hospitable. They are predominant farmers. Other traditional occupations of the people are fishing, trading, hunting, wood-carving, raffia works, blacksmithing, pottery, iron works, tailoring, arts and crafts creations.



GEOGRAPHY

Akwa Ibom State is a heart-throb of wealth and potentials. It is like a beautiful bride beckoning on tourists, investors in mineral resources and agriculture-based industries. Its weather is clement: warm caress of the 7,245,935 sq. km fertile land mass, luxuriant green all year round. The State’s fond sobriquet: Land of Promise is not misplaced: The land holds promise of exciting people, splendid opportunities for leisure, investment and wealth creation. The hospitable disposition of its population is becoming a national reference point just as its salivating cuisines, exotic culture...

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... - Ndoki, Ukanafun LGA

14. Twin Mothers Village - Ikot Adiakpan

15. Slave Trade Route (Yet to be identified) - Oku Iboku

16. 1st Qua Iboe Church built by Rev. Samuel Bill in 1912 - Ibeno

17. 1929 Women Riot Centre - Ikot Abasi

GOVERNANCE

Under the present democratic dispensation in Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State is being governed by His Excellency, Arc. (Obong) Victor Attah who after his successful tenure in office (1999 – 2003) was re-elected for the second term 2003 – 2007. The following are parade of past Governors and Administrators of Akwa Ibom State since its creation in 23rd September, 1987:

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