… Governor’s Birthday Attracts Blessings, Development to Ini LGA as Hon. Umah Gives Thanks to God that Donation Coincides with Governor’s Birthday Celebration in Akwa Ibom
The Executive Chairman of Ini Local Government Area, Hon. Inibehe Umah, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to digitalising education and equipping the younger generation with 21st-century learning tools, following the receipt of 30 desktop computers from the Association of Akwa Ibom Communities Presidents, Worldwide (ASACOP). The event took place at CEEDAPEG Hotel and Suites, Uyo, drawing key stakeholders and dignitaries from across the state.
Receiving the donation, the Council Boss described the gesture as both timely and transformative, noting that it aligns seamlessly with his administration’s vision of establishing a modern, fully equipped ICT Hub that will redefine access to digital education across Ini LGA. He emphasized that the initiative is not merely about infrastructure, but about empowering students with the technological exposure necessary to compete globally.
Hon. Umah commended students who participated in the Essay and Debate Competition for Secondary Schools across Akwa Ibom State, an initiative organised by the Association of Akwa Ibom Communities Presidents, Worldwide (ASACOP) as part of its broader commitment to educational advancement and intellectual development. He described the competition as a strategic platform for nurturing critical thinking, public speaking, and academic excellence among young learners.
He also acknowledged the collaborative contributions of Purple Tie led by Neriah and Moriah, whose involvement added value to the programme through intellectual and organisational support, noting that such partnerships are vital in strengthening educational initiatives and expanding opportunities for students across the state.
The Chairman conveyed the profound gratitude of the Government and people of Ini LGA to ASACOP, describing the donation as a clear demonstration of love, unity, and shared responsibility toward community advancement. He noted that the intervention would significantly accelerate the completion and functionality of the ICT Hub, urging contractors handling the project to expedite action and deliver within the stipulated timeline.
Reflecting on the motivation behind the ICT initiative, Hon. Umah recalled the challenges faced by students who previously had to travel long distances outside Ini and neighbouring Ikono LGA to access JAMB facilities and other ICT needs, a situation that often affected their performance, stability, and exposure to digital tools. He stressed that his administration is determined to reverse this trend by bringing digital opportunities closer to the people.
In recognition of efforts geared toward promoting academic excellence and youth engagement, the Chairman, in his characteristic show of magnanimity, announced a donation of one million naira to support the initiative, further underscoring his administration’s resolve to invest in knowledge-driven development.
Hon. Umah also paid glowing tribute to the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, acknowledging his confidence in his leadership; first through his appointment as Transition Committee Chairman and subsequently as Executive Chairman. He described the Governor as a visionary leader whose ARISE AGENDA has redefined grassroots governance and inspired developmental strides across the state.
The Council Chairman stated that his administration would continue to implement the ARISE AGENDA of Governor Umo Eno, particularly in the area of rural development. He reaffirmed his commitment to redefining grassroots governance and advancing the Governor’s developmental vision.
As part of the symbolic significance of the day, Hon. Umah gave thanks to God, noting that the donation coinciding with the Governor’s birthday reflects a divine alignment of leadership and development. He described the moment as both celebratory and prophetic, underscoring the growing recognition of Ini LGA as a beneficiary of purposeful governance.
Reacting to the development, the Member Representing Ini State Constituency, Hon. Lawrence Udoide, lauded ASACOP’s intervention as remarkable and impactful. He noted that the donation of the desktop computers is a strong validation of Hon. Umah’s forward-thinking vision, which has not only prioritised digital learning but has also attracted international recognition and partnerships to Ini LGA.
The Assemblyman further described the occasion as symbolic, coinciding with the birthday of Governor Umo Eno, reflecting a shared commitment to people-oriented governance.
Presenting the computers, the International President of ASACOP, Mr. Itoro Akpan-Iquot, represented by the Association’s Secretary, Barr. Aniefiok Ibah, commended Hon. Umah for his transformational leadership and deliberate efforts in advancing education through digital innovation.
He noted that the Association has keenly followed the Chairman’s strides from afar and remains impressed by his commitment to impactful grassroots development, encouraging him to sustain the momentum while also appreciating the people of Ini for their continued support.
In a further demonstration of its commitment to education, ASACOP also disbursed educational support grants totaling 6.2 Million Naira to secondary school students across the 31 Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State of which two Ini LGA students were beneficiaries.
Dignitaries in company of the chairman included the Vice Chairman, Hon. (Mrs.) Veronica Edidiong Bassey; the Council Secretary, Hon. Ubong Mkpa; the Director-General of INIBEHE-INI Campaign Organisation, Mkpisong Edet Udoakang; the President Africa Women in Leadership Organisation, Dr. Elisha Attai; the Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Mobilization (Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency), Mr. Charles Udofia; alongside personal aides and other key stakeholders.
The International recognition marks yet another milestone in Ini LGA’s journey toward digital transformation, positioning the council as an emerging hub of innovation, educational advancement, and strategic international collaboration under the leadership of Hon. Inibehe Umah.
Media Unit
Office of the Executive Chairman
Ini Local Government Area
24:04:2025
