Gist: Akwa-ibom Indegenes Association South Africa Inaugurates New Executives

The newly elected president, his wife and vice-president of the association.

On the 12th of August 2012, history was made as the Akwa- Ibom Indigenes Association in South Africa elected officers to run the affairs of the association for the next one year. 

In an emotion drained, tension soaked election meeting held at Lullilulli Hotel, Pretoria, Richard Usen defeated his
opponent David Nkanang to become the president of the association.  He has the mandate to lead the association for the next one year subject to re-election provision of the constitution.

In his acceptance speech after the election, Richard thanked members for the confidence reposed on him by the members to lead the association for the next one year as the President.  He reiterated his commitment to upholding the constitution of the association and identify with yearnings of its members. He promised to reposition the association as a credible organization both in South Africa and in Akwa Ibom State. He promised to show case the association both at home and abroad. During his tenure, according to him, the association will resume its pride place in the committee of Akwa Ibom in the Diaspora.  He expressed desire to fashion programmes for our children born in South Africa to be familiar with the culture and language of Akwa Ibom. 

A cross-section of members after the swearing in of newly elected officers.

His pet project also includes initiating investment ideas and sourcing sponsors to buy into these ideas. He promised to set up a Trust Fund as a vehicle to incubate the business ideas and resources of Akwa Ibom people in South Africa. He also promised to reach out to other Akwa Ibom indigenes in South Africa who are yet to identify with the association and those other members in other cities in South Africa.  During his tenure, students will also receive assistance in accessing funding opportunity here and at home (Akwa Ibom State).

Members of the association including past presidents and other well meaning individuals congratulated and wish him and his cabinet well. 

Below are the newly inaugurated members of the exco:
1.       Richard Usen:   president
2.       Ini Akpan : Vice President
3.       Oro U. Oro: Secretary General
4.       Kingsley Ibokette: Assistant Secretary
5.       Emmanuel Ekqere:  Treasurer
6.       Victoria InyangOtu: Welfare Officer
7.       Moris Essien:  Public Relation Officer
8.       Ntakobong Udoidiong: Financial Secretary
9.       Ernest Nkang:  Provost

The New Exco from left to Right: Mr. Morris Essien( PRO), Mr. Ntakobong Udoidiong( Fin. Sec.), Mrs. Victoria Inyang-Otu(Welfare), Mr. Ini Akpan( Vice President), Mr. Richard Usen(President) and Mr. Emmanuel Ekqere(Treasurer).