Skip to main content

Senator Ekpenyong Champions Cultural Renaissance at 2024 Utomo Obong Celebration


In a magnificent display of cultural grandeur and heritage preservation, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong chairs the 2024 Utomo Obong, a Yuletide celebration honoring the Obong of Calabar. The event, held at the country home of the Obong at Adiabo, drew a constellation of dignitaries, including 30 senators, the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku amongst other dignitaries.


The Utomo Obong, an annual cultural spectacle, is a celebration of the Efik monarchy and its enduring traditions. This year's edition was significant as Senator Ekpenyong demonstrated his unwavering commitment to cultural tourism and the preservation of Efik heritage.


Speaking at the event, Senator Ekpenyong thanked and praised the Governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu for sustaining and promoting the Utomobong, he further expressed the importance of cultural festivities in fostering unity and tourism growth. "The Efik heritage is a priceless gem that must be preserved for future generations. Through the Utomo Obong, we showcase our unique traditions and position Calabar as a beacon of cultural tourism in Nigeria," he said.


Representing the President of the Senate, Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi addressed the gathering on behalf of the visiting senators, praising Senator Ekpenyong for his exemplary leadership and dedication to cultural preservation. "The Senate recognizes the cultural significance of the Utomo Obong and the vital role it plays in uniting communities and promoting national pride. Senator Ekpenyong has set a remarkable standard in fostering cultural tourism, and we are proud to support his efforts," Senator Nengi remarked.


Senator Ningi further commended the Efik people for their hospitality and commitment to their heritage. "Calabar remains a vital cultural hub in Nigeria, and events like this remind us of the importance of preserving our diverse traditions. On behalf of the Senate, I extend our gratitude to the Governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Senator Ekpenyong and the Efik Kingdom for keeping this legacy alive," he added.


The Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, lauded the Utomo Obong initiative, emphasizing the synergy between infrastructure development and cultural preservation.


In a landmark announcement, Senator Ekpenyong pledged support for the construction of a befitting palace for the Obong of Calabar. The proposed structure, designed to reflect the architectural brilliance of the Efik people, is set to become a cultural and tourism landmark in Cross River State.

The Nigerian Senate also pledged their support, while the MD NDDC announced that the commission will support and ensure that the palace is built.


As the evening unfolded, the grounds echoed with the rhythm of Efik traditional drums and the chants of ancestral songs, leaving attendees with an indelible memory of the grandeur of the Efik heritage.


The event featured a vibrant array of traditional dances, folklore, and the regal display of the Obong’s throne, capturing the essence of Efik culture. Guests were treated to an immersive cultural experience, with the sights, sounds, and tastes of the Efik kingdom, leaving many in awe of the rich history and artistry of the people.


With the success of 2024 Utomo Obong, the efforts in positioning Calabar as a premier destination for cultural tourism, will ensure that the legacy of the Efik people shines brightly on both national and global stages.

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

BREAKING NEWS: Youths of Ikot Ansa Nab Vandals Destroying Public Utilities, Hand Over to Authorities for Prosecution

  In a combined effort to curb the rampant vandalism of public utilities in Cross River State, the youth leader of Ikot Ansa, Prince, Victor Otu Iso JR, alongside his community, successfully apprehended criminals involved in the destruction of vital public infrastructure. The vandals were caught red-handed this morning, 13th day of September 2024, as they attempted to steal Amor cables belonging to state transformers at Ekpo Iso. Acting swiftly, the youth leader invited the Special Adviser on Public Utilities, Engr. Dr. Jerome Egbe KSM, and his counterpart on General Duties, Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba, to the scene. The Special Advisers arrived promptly, accompanied by operatives of the Nigerian Police Force from the Federal Division, and took custody of the criminals. The suspects have since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further interrogation and prosecution. While addressing the youths of Ikot Ansa, Engr. Dr. Egbe and Barr. Akiba commended t...
1 comment
Read more

Chevron Opens Employment Portal for New Applicants

  Chevron, a leading multinational energy corporation, has officially launched its employment portal, inviting qualified applicants from across the country to apply for various job openings. This move is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to create job opportunities and invest in local talent. According to Converseer , the open portal provides opportunities in various fields, including engineering, project management, finance, human resources, and operations. Candidates are encouraged to apply online by visiting the official Chevron employment portal, where they can submit their applications, upload relevant documents, and monitor the status of their submissions. Chevron’s initiative comes at a time when job creation is a top priority for both private and public sectors, aiming to reduce unemployment rates in the country. The company is looking for candidates who are innovative, team-oriented, and committed to achieving excellence in their respective fields. Interested applic...
Post a Comment
Read more

Mass Communication Alumni: Class of 2006-2010, Donate Public Address System, Lecterns to Unicross Mass Communication Department

The Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH) Mass Communication Alumni, Class of 2006-2010, have donated a Public Address System and two lecterns to the Department of Mass Communication.  This philanthropic act underscores the alumni’s dedication to enhancing educational resources and supporting the development of the institution that played a pivotal role in their formative years. The donation ceremony took place on Monday, July 29, 2024, at the office of the Head of the Department of Mass Communication.  During the event, Mr. Usani Ebri Omini, President of the 2006-2010 Alumni Association, expressed the collective sentiment of his peers. "Our time in the department was transformative, and although we lost some colleagues along the way, those experiences shaped who we are today," he said. "We are a young association, but today marks the beginning of our journey to give back. We are committed to supporting the Mass Communication Department continuously." Mr. O...
1 comment
Read more