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The Chairman of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area (LGA), Aniefiok Nkom, has vowed to reposition the council for global relevance
Launching the year-long Diamond Jubilee celebration for the Premier LGA of Nigeria, Nkom has unveiled a roadmap to reposition the council for the next 75 years.
Speaking at a global press conference at the council secretariat on Sunday, the council leader anchored the significance of the celebration on the historic establishment of Ikot Ekpene as the first local government in British West Africa, describing the milestone as both a legacy and a challenge.
“Being first is a privilege. Remaining first is a responsibility. The anniversary must inspire renewed leadership and vision rather than mere celebrations,” he said.
He recalled that the creation of Ikot Ekpene 75 years ago was “an act of singular vision” that put the area on the map as a pacesetter in governance, commerce and cultural identity.
“On this historic day, Ikot Ekpene turns 75, that singular act of vision has put us on the map not only as a people, but as pacesetters,” Nkom said.
The council head said the Diamond Jubilee will transcend ceremonial activities, instead positioning it as a strategic platform to stimulate economic growth, cultural awakening and global relevance.
“We’re not just celebrating a birthday. We’re declaring a rebirth,” he said.
Nkom has formally unveiled a comprehensive program of activities running from April to December 2026, starting with the official flag and culminating with a grand finale later in the year.
One of the highlights of the celebration, he revealed, is the planned coronation and installation of the Supreme Ruler of Ikot Ekpene in August 2026, which he described as a historic step towards restoring the traditional authority and identity of the area.
“This will be a landmark event that will restore the full traditional stature of our land,” he said.
December’s grand finale will feature the commissioning of a modern shopping mall aimed at boosting trade, along with a large-scale exhibition showcasing Ikot Ekpene’s renowned raffia products and creative heritage.
“For 75 years, Ikot Ekpene has remained a beacon of cultural richness, economic enterprise and community resilience,” Nkom noted.
He emphasized that the Jubilee is forward-looking, adding: “This Jubilee is not simply about looking back with nostalgia. It is about looking forward with intentionality.”
According to him, the council aims to leverage the celebration to attract investments, enhance its visibility on national and international platforms and strengthen collaboration among stakeholders.
He identified key focus areas including the mall project, agriculture and creative industries, urging investors to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
“For our investors, the doors of Ikot Ekpene are open. Come and prosper with us,” he said.
Nkom also called on indigenous people in the diaspora to reconnect with their roots and contribute to the development of the area.
“To our sons and daughters at home and abroad: Your land needs your talent, your resources and your voice,” he added.
He urged traditional rulers to uphold their role as custodians of culture, saying: “You are the custodians of our soul. Stand firm.”
The president also tasked the media to work with the municipality in projecting a positive image of the area, urging journalists to “tell our story accurately and boldly.”
He stressed that unity and collaboration will be key to achieving the goals of the jubilee, calling for collective action to uphold the legacy of the founding fathers.
“Let us unite, not in empty rhetoric, but in purposeful action to honor the legacy of our ancestors and to shape the destiny of generations yet unborn,” he said.
Nkom later formally declared the Diamond Jubilee celebrations open, describing Ikot Ekpene, now 75 years old, as a community ripe for renewal and greater relevance.
He concluded with a call for patriotism and collective pride, rallying support for Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.
“Long live Ikot Ekpene, the first and the best,” he proclaimed.
