By Edet ikotidem
The Executive Chairman of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, Aniefiok Nkom, has officially declared open the Diamond Jubilee celebration of the council, marking 75 years of its establishment as a pioneering local government in British West Africa.
Ikot Ekpene Marks 75 Years with Diamond Jubilee Celebrations, Unveils Development Roadmap
Speaking during an interaction with some journalists on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the council secretariat, Nkom described the milestone as both historic and strategic, emphasizing that the anniversary is not just a celebration of the past but a deliberate effort to shape the future.
With the theme, “Celebrating Heritage, Inspiring the Future: Making the First, the Best,” the chairman said Ikot Ekpene’s legacy as the first premier local government in the region places a responsibility on its people to sustain excellence and leadership.
Ikot Ekpene Marks 75 Years with Diamond Jubilee
“Being first is a privilege. Staying first is a responsibility,” Nkom stated, highlighting the area’s longstanding reputation as the “Raffia City,” known for its cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and commercial relevance.
The chairman used the occasion to unveil a comprehensive programme of events that will span several months and culminate in December 2026.
Key activities include the official flag-off and press launch in April 2026, a historic coronation and installation of the Paramount Ruler in August 2026, Commissioning of a new shopping mall project in December 2026, a grand exhibition of local products and crafts as wll as awards to honour distinguished sons and daughters of the area
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Hon. Nkom noted that the planned shopping mall project is expected to boost commerce and strengthen the local economy, while the exhibition will showcase the rich cultural and creative heritage of the people.
Beyond celebration, the chairman outlined strategic expectations for the Jubilee, including raising the global profile of Ikot Ekpene, attracting investment, and fostering cultural revival.
He stressed the need to position the local government as a destination for culture, commerce, and investment, while also strengthening collaboration among traditional institutions, government, private sector players, and the diaspora community.
Nkom called on stakeholders to play active roles in the transformation of the area. He urged traditional rulers to uphold cultural values, invited investors to explore opportunities, and appealed to indigenes both at home and abroad to contribute to development efforts.
He also charged the media to accurately tell the story of Ikot Ekpene and amplify its progress and potential.
Describing the anniversary as a “rebirth,” the chairman emphasized unity and purposeful action as key to achieving long-term development goals.
“We are not merely celebrating a birthday. We are declaring a rebirth,” he said.
The Diamond Jubilee celebration, he added, will serve as a platform to honour the legacy of past leaders while laying a solid foundation for future generations.
With that declaration, the 75th anniversary celebrations of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area were formally set in motion, ushering in what officials describe as a new chapter of growth and opportunity.
