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16/12/2023

HIS STEADFAST LOVE ENDURES FOREVER

A WELCOME ADDRESS BY THE HONOURABLE COMMISSIONER FOR CULTURE AND TOURISM, AKWA IBOM STATE, SIR CHARLES UDOH AT THE 2023 AKWA IBOM CHRISTMAS CAROLS FESTIVAL HELD THE CHRISTMAS PARK, UYO, ON DECEMBER 15, 2023

Protocols

Your Excellency, The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno

Your Excellency, The Wife of Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor (Mrs) Patience Umo Eno

Your Excellency, The Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator (Dr) Akon Eyakenyi and Spouse

Please permit me to abbreviate the protocols and lean on the order already established

1. With a heart filled with a deep sense of gratitude, please permit me to begin this welcome address by drawing inspiration from Psalm 118:1-4 - English Standard Version (ESV) Bible. It reads:2. “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His steadfast love endures forever!

Let “Akwa Ibomites” say, “His steadfast love endures forever. Let those who fear the Lord say, His steadfast love endures forever.”

3. Your Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, indeed the 2023 Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival is a clear manifestation of God’s steadfast love for those who trust and believe in Him. It evokes emotions of surmounting the impossibility and igniting the can-do spirit of a typical Akwa Ibomite.

4. When on October 15, 2023, we excavated the first shovel scoop of earth to kickstart the process of building this arena; which is unarguably the biggest amphitheatre in Nigeria, many were very vocal and vehement in their assertions that it was a mission impossible.

5. Fast forward to this day; 9 weeks later, we are seated in a brand new 20,000 capacity amphitheatre, where citizens and guests from across the globe have gathered for an edifying moment to worship God. The arena is complete with an Executive lounge and 30 fully kitted toilet facilities.

6. The Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival is an international religious festival of Christian Songs, Dance, and Worship that is officially certified and cited in the Guinness Book of World Records. Over the years, the event has attracted the crème-de-la crème in gospel music artistry and worshipers from across the world.

7. The theme for the 2023 edition which is “Arise, Shine for thy light has come”, is taken from Isaiah 60:1 (KJV) and the message will be delivered by Bishop (Dr.) Emmah Isong; the National Publicity Secretary of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).

8. We rejigged the format to give opportunities to home grown talents on a global stage. Therefore, we have lined up a mixed grill of 13 home-grown gospel artistes and 20 choir and choral groups, who will sing to the glory of God and for the pride of Akwa Ibomites and humanity across the globe.

9. We did not just hand-pick this “armada” of singers, but we went for some of the brightest and best singers and leaned on the pedigree of the selected choirs and choral groups. Beyond the selection process, we spent more than one month rehearsing with them and fine tuning the rough edges to ensure that their performances meet international standards and global best practices.

10. Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, some of us might be wondering why we leave no stone unturned towards hosting an international standard event, year-in-year-out to sing praises to God, particularly those watching this event live on satellite TV and on the Internet.

11. The answer is very much aligned with the fact that religion and tourism are interlinked, therefore it is only fit and proper that Akwa Ibom State, the only state on planet earth named after God - AKWA ABASI IBOM, provides a platform for a festival of Christian songs, dance and worship, which is recognized and attended by top artistes and worshipers from across the world.

12. It is expedient to note that this year’s event is taking place in the same arena as the Annual Ibom Christmas Village Celebrations which has been rebranded, reloaded and aptly tagged CHRISTMAS UNPLUGGED. The event opened on December 01, 2023, and runs till January 1, 2024.

13. The festive event features a daily dose of a mixed grill of back-to-back musical events, drama, comedy, games, cultural displays, talent shows, outdoor catering and lounging. It also provides exceptional opportunities for brand visibility, networking, and the chance for corporate bodies to showcase their commitments to corporate social responsibility in Akwa Ibom State.

14. Last year, the event attracted an estimated footprint of more than 1 million people over a 32-day period and has been widely adjudged to be the biggest event of it’s kind in Africa by the size of its location, potential for growth and visitors and vendors foot prints.

15. Please permit me to invite all of us to make out time to be a part of Christmas Unplugged; you would be glad you did. You may wish to visit www.discoverakwaibom.com for more information.

16. Even though this is a welcome address, but since I might not have another opportunity, please permit me to acknowledge the man, who not only convinced me to quit my banking job to join him in the world of politics but also trusted me to be a close confidant as his Commissioner of Information and Strategy for 4years, and later, Commissioner for Environment, I am talking about the immediate past Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Mr. Udom Emmanuel. I refer to him as my political father and God has used him in more ways than one to spare my life. Thank you Sir. I remain eternally grateful.

17. Your Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, please permit me to also place on record my appreciation to Mr, Uwem Okoko, the CEO of HENSEK Engineering Services, for working day and night, in sunshine and rain, to complete the construction of this arena in record time. Not forgetting our event consultants Dujour event mangers who practically relocated their operations to Akwa Ibom since October

18. I also crave your indulgence to acknowledge the gentleman who incubated and nurtured the recipe for this festival into a global event, since inception until last year, Mr Aniekpeno Mkpanang.

19. Finally, the South African Reggae Musician, Lucky Dube (RIP) in his song titled “Touch Your Dreams” said; and I quote… “Don't let them tell you it is impossible. That is what they told all heroes before. In a hero's mind the word impossible does not exist”.

20. Your Excellency, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, you are that hero in whose mind, the word impossible does not exist! Thank You for the trust and confidence, in not only me, but the entire planning committee.

21. This is the day the Lord has made and we shall rejoice in it.

22. It is truly a December-to-Remember and the dawn of a Golden Era in Akwa Ibom State.

23. Welcome to the 2023 Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival

24. Thank you and God bless all of us!

15/12/2023

The Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival is in full swing at the Ibom Unity Park, and if you're not here, you're definitely missing out!

Scene from the Praise and Worship Session by Minister Solomon Moses and Joseph Ek

15/12/2023

A cross-section of Choir groups at the ongoing Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival 2023.

15/12/2023

Come, sing with us...

IS HERE!

The 16th edition of Akwa Ibom Carols Festival holds today at Ibibio Unity Park, Uyo by 5PM.

It's God's Own Party, featuring carols rendition by 17 Choir groups, performances by highly talented artistes, ministration, among others.

As pointed by the Progenitor and Immediate-Past Coordinator of the festival, Mr Aniekpeno Mkpanang, THE SHOW MUST GO ON. So, let the show BEGIN!

15/12/2023

15 YEARS OF

THE TEAM LEAD

Behind the amazing composition, coordination and delivery by various dedicated teams which ensured the presentation of a world class show, was the Team Lead, the Chief Coordinator, Mr Aniekpeno Mkpanang, who held the reins for the past 15 editions since the inception.

Being granted the opportunity to serve, he raised and coordinated a large team to set an enviable standard befitting of Akwa Ibom as a globally relevant destination. His dedication to duty and uncompromising insistence on excellence, inspired his team to aim only at the best.

An exemplar of result oriented leadership, Mkpanang was humane, real and authentic in engaging young, creative and passionate minds to interprete the vision, process it and churn out mind blowing results. A leader in his mould deserves nothing less than THANK YOU.

15/12/2023

❌❌❌ INFORMATION

This is to inform all Nsit Ubium People, that our Cultural Day at the Uyo Christmas Village, will be held on the 29th of December and not on the 21st as earlier scheduled.

Let's all come together and witness our Cultural Heritage.

Signed:
Chairman CWC, Nsit Ubium Cultural Day
Hon. Ibanga Brownson

14/12/2023

15 YEARS OF : MELODY FROM OVERSEAS

On the stage of Akwa Ibom Carols Festival in the past 15 editions were awesome melodies, sweet sounds and performances from artistes including foreign gospel music stars who graced the stage.

This is to serve as a note of gratitude to those voices from abroad who laced each edition with soul lifting ministrations and added beautiful musical colours to the record setting festival.

13/12/2023

Joseph Ek, Angel, Larry Sax, and John Bernand will grace the stage at Ibom Christmas Park on Friday, December 15, 2023, at 5 pm for this year's Ibom . Don't miss it!

Join us at and .

13/12/2023

Vincent Enyeama Was The First African & Third Goalkeeper To Ever Score In A UEFA Champions League Game.

Vincent Enyeama Is The Only Goalkeeper To Ever Score In The CAF Champions League And The UEFA Champions League.

Vincent Enyeama Is The Only African Goalkeeper To Ever Win The Best Player Of The Year Award In The Israeli Premier League.

Vincent Enyeama Is The Only Goalkeeper To Ever Receive The CAF Champions League Best Player Award In 2 Successive (Campaigns) Seasons.

Vincent Enyeama Is The Highest Goal Scoring African Goalkeeper Of All-time (24 Goals).

Vincent Enyeama Holds The Record For Most Clean Sheets In A Season In The France Ligue 1 With 21 Clean Sheets For LOSC Lille In 2013-14 League Season.

IFFHS AFRICAN'S GREATEST GOALKEEPER OF ALL TIME !!!

13/12/2023

It's that time of year again, where the children of God will gather to celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ with the clapping of hands and worship, lifting holy hands into heaven.

It's 2 DAY to go, come lets celebrate God together.

Join us at Unity Park, Udo Udoma Avenue, by 6pm.

Date is 15 December, 2023

13/12/2023

Does Governor Umo Eno Sleep At all?

Richard Peters

"Work while they sleep.
Learn while they party.
Save while they spend.
Live like they dream."
(Anonymous)

Great leaders have one common feature of always working while others sleep. Whether in business, corporate world, ministry, politics, academia, etc. the story is the same. I have read stories of reputable leaders who have left indelible marks in the sand of time, and all of them are workaholics. Governor Umo Eno is one of such leaders and the evidence is visible.

Recently I attended a program organized by the Nigeria Institute of Social Media Analysts in Abuja, and after the induction lectures by different speakers including DIG Frank Mba, Head of Department, Research and Planning of Nigeria Police Force and President, Nigeria Institute of Social Media Analysts,
Prof. Samaila Mande, Professor of Marketing and Communication, CP Uche Henry, Director, National Cybercrime Centre, Nigeria Police Force, Mr. Jide Ojo
Communication Specialist, Dr. Ikalone Udo, Mental Health First Aider, Ijeoma Faith, Communication Expert and Ayeni Ekundayo, Digital Marketing/Analytical Expert, there was a panel of discussion. After which, opportunity was given for questions. A question was raised by a participant about leadership and effective service to the people.

In response, one of the panelists who is not from Akwa Ibom used Akwa Ibom state as a study to answer the question. He took time to highlight the leadership approaches and achievements of Governor Umo Eno in just 6 months in office. I was amazed how people who are not living in Akwa Ibom could know so much about the state and the governor. He went further to highlight the achievements of Borno state Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum. He concluded that the two governors and few others are perfect definition of leadership. When I heard that, the pride in me jumped in excitement and I was proud of my state and the leadership of my boss, Pst. Umo Eno.

The panelist said when it comes to effective leadership, people-centric leadership, a leader who understands his onions especially as regarding good governance, a leader who is an expert in peace management, human capital development, infrastructure, among others , Akwa Ibom is the model to learn from. I was so proud that governor Umo Eno was found worthy in the aforementioned leadership indices.

A Brazilian soccer player Pele, once said "Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do." These are common virtues of Akwa Ibom state governor Pastor Umo Eno who is always up and doing. From day one, he has been running,(not walking), and that is why the state has achieved so much.

One doesn't need a soothsayer to affirm that only a workaholic can achieve these feats. It means that the governor has deprived himself peace, comfort, luxury, and most times work into midnight, all for the growth and advancement of Akwa Ibom state.
This is why we need to support, pray for him and the state, and contribute our quota towards the development of the state.

The other day, an Elderstatesman who is very close to the governor shared a story that touched my heart. He re-echoed my earlier submission that most times, the governor have meetings on the way forward of the state till 4 A.M. While people are sleeping, the governor is awake to attend to pressing needs of the people, looking at the security situation and the economic indices. He is busy looking at the data of students, farmers, people's complaints, planning on how to put smile on the faces of workers, retirees, elderly, youths etc. Does the governor really sleep?

There was a day I had an interaction with him and asked him this same question about whether he sleeps at night. His response was: How do I sleep when we have over 7 million people in the state who needs leadership that will help them feed their families; leadership with good economic policies that will impact their businesses positively; leadership that will revolutionalized the healthcare system, education, rural development, agricultural renaissance, women empowerment, infrastructural maintenance, economic development and security, etc. His voice commanded such passion that is a rarity among an average politician.

Governor Umo Eno means well for Akwa Ibom people. He is out to make Akwa Ibom a destination that all of us will be proud of. He needs our supports and prayers to achieve more. Be benevolent in extending such virtues to the governor.

13/12/2023

It's day 13, and Ikot Abasi is ready to thrill us with their unique culture, dress and culinary skills.

See you at Ibom Christmas Park today, it's !

12/12/2023

As expected, Ikono delivered beyond expectations. Here are photos from Ikono Day at the Ibom Christmas Park.

It's Day 12, and many more to come. Keep a date, it's !

12/12/2023

The experience keeps getting better by the day. Join Ikono people today at the Ibom Christmas Park, as they showcase their rich, unique culture, dress and culinary skills.

It's , see you there!

12/12/2023

The Gracing of Stage

This is to celebrate the Indigenous Akwa Ibom Artistes who graced the in the last 15 years.

Since 2007 when Akwa Ibom Carols Festival birthed, the stage has been graced with exceptional music talents drawn from home and intercontinental pool. We celebrate every artiste who has graced the stage as we anticipate more.

11/12/2023

SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF IKA: DAY 11

Beautiful sceneries from the sights and sounds of Ika Local Government Area, its only gonna get better by the day, make a date to be here at the Village Square of the Christmas Park.

The Experience keeps getting better.

11/12/2023

‘THE SHOW MUST GO ON’

(Being Full Text of the Speech made by Mr. Aniekpeno Mkpanang at the Thanksgiving Service to mark the round off of his 15 years as Coordinator of the Akwa Ibom State Christmas Carols Festival in Uyo on December 10, 2023)

My dearly beloved brothers and Sisters in the Lord. In the soothing embrace of this hallowed sanctuary, I stand before you, dear members and friends of God's Ambassadors Ministries International, with a heart brimming with gratitude and reverence. As we unite in this Thanksgiving Service, it is with utmost humility, gratitude and joy that I stand before you today in this sacred space, where we have gathered to reflect upon the past 15 years of my journey as the Coordinator of the Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival and to express our appreciation to our Heavenly Father for standing with me and leading us every step of the way.
Before we go further, please permit me to start by stating my personal reason for choosing to come to God’s Ambassadors Ministries International for this Thanksgiving Service. Our mother, our Shepherd and God’s own daughter, Rev. Mrs. Angela Ashong, a beacon of grace and an embodiment of spiritual fortitude, stands at the helm of this congregation with an exceptional blend of social grace and deep spiritual insight. Her role in the success of the Christmas Carols Festival has been nothing short of miraculous.
What sets Rev. Mrs. Angela Ashong apart is not merely her position as a Church Leader but the profound depth of her commitment to our cause. Every year, on the eve of the event, she unfailingly graces us with her divine presence, ushering in the midnight hour with prayers that resonate with the fervor of angels. Her words, a symphony of faith and supplication, were always to become the spiritual prelude to the joyous carols that would echo through the air the very next day. That is why we chose to be in this beautiful church today to register our appreciation to our God.
Fifteen years ago, under the benevolent reign of His Excellency, Governor Godswill Akpabio, I was granted a rare and precious gift – the free reign to orchestrate, enhance, and expand the Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival. It was a mandate bathed in trust, a testament to his confidence in the power of the Carols Festival to unite and uplift a community. Chief Akpabio's support, like a sturdy pillar, sustained me through the challenges and triumphs, as we collectively forged a legacy of joy, harmony, and shared festivity.
As the mantle of leadership passed to the capable hands of His Excellency Governor Udom Emmanuel, I witnessed a seamless transition, an unbroken chain of commitment that spoke volumes about the enduring spirit of the Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival. Governor Emmanuel not only embraced the festival with open arms but infused it with an even deeper passion, breathing new life into its essence. His unwavering dedication became the wind beneath our festive wings, propelling the celebration to greater heights.
Together, these two illustrious leaders in their time and in their own ways, crafted a narrative of unity, cultural pride, and communal joy that resonated within the very soul of Akwa Ibom. Their shared vision, each adding a distinct chapter to the festival's success story, transformed the Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival into a symbol of resilience, continuity, and enduring festive bliss.

To His Excellency former Governor Godswill Akpabio, the architect of the festival's early triumphs, I offer profound gratitude for the trust bestowed upon me and the enduring legacy you initiated. His support has been the cornerstone upon which this spiritual tourism extravaganza stands tall. To His Excellency former Governor Udom Emmanuel, a custodian of the flame, I extend heartfelt appreciation for your fervent dedication and the depth of passion with which you have nurtured and elevated the Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival. Your commitment is the melody that continues to play in the hearts of our community.

Looking back, I cannot help but acknowledge the immense challenges that we faced along the way. Organizing a festival of such magnitude required unwavering dedication, tireless efforts, and countless sleepless nights. It demanded the coordination of various creative artistes, talented musicians, inspiring choirs, crack technical teams, and die-hard volunteers. It necessitated meticulous planning, rigorous rehearsals, and the overcoming of numerous obstacles. Yet, through it all, we stand here today, witnesses to the grace and faithfulness of our God.
My dear friends, this festival was not just a mere event; it was a platform where we united as a community, celebrating the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, through the gift of music and worship. It became a beacon of hope, spreading joy, love, and peace to all who attended. It touched the lives of countless individuals, fostering a sense of togetherness and reminding us of the true essence of Christmas. In those 15 years, we were blessed to drink from the vast well of spiritual nourishment from some of the most accomplished Gospel Music Evangelists on the face of the earth, from Akwa Ibom, from the Nigerian Nation and from the world at large.

At this point, kindly permit me to attempt a 15-year throwback list of some of the global gospel music icons that have visited and performed on our stage and in front of our people, starting off with Artistes of Akwa Ibom extraction. On the list were iconic indigenous acts such as Pat Akpabio, Anne Inyang, Linda Etukudo, James Edikan, Freke Umoh, Hope David, David Gospel, Pat Ekwere, Uduakobong Akpan Jnr, Darlene Benson, El-Mafrex, David Eka and Julius Nglass.

Other home-grown artistes included Esther Edoho, Ezekiel Umoh, Eno Michael, Rev Patrick Edet, Amaikah, Progress Effiong, Queen Favour, Uduak Akpan, James Okon, John Bassey, Peace Andrew, Godfada Uko, Bobby Friga, Mercy Atang, Uto Essien, Ndueso Udoyen, Emmanuel Iwok, Solomon Moses, Mista Xto, Desmond Offong, Fadabasi, Pasto Goody Goody, Ezekiel Umoh, Perfecta Ekpo, Akwaima Ekukinam, Ethel Odungide, Nathaniel Bassey, Hope David and Aity Dennis-Inyang,
On the National front, we were blessed with performances by Sinach, Frank Edwards, Buchi, Chinelo Dillimono, Lara George, Asu Ekiye, Skalawee, Elijah Oyelade, Buchi, Steve Crown, Sammie Okposo, Jimmy D’Psalmist, Kingsley Ike, David Ekene, Eben, Chris Shalom, Mercy Chinwo, Preye, Damola Adesina, Joe Praiz, Mairo Ese, Kunle Ajayi, Pita, Prospa Ochimana, Emma Onyx, Dunsin Oyekan, Ada Ehi, Minister GUC, Dr. Panam Percy Paul, Tim Godfrey, Larry John, Ronke Adesokan, Folake Umosen and Bongos Ikwue.

From the foreign scene, came globally acclaimed ministers such as Ron Kenoly, Israel Houghton, Lionel Peterson, Angela Christie, Don Moen, Alvin Slaughter, Donnie McClurkin, Angela Christie, Chevelle Franklyn, Shirley Caesar, Bob Fitts, Elsie Otto, Nicole Mullen, Master KG, Sonnie Badu and Jonathan Nelson. We were also blessed by the involvement of some very eminent choir and groups.

On the home front we had the ever present AKSG Choir who provided the back-up and Chorus line for every local, National and Foreign artistes over the years. There was, also the Promise Land Chorale, the 867 choirs that provided the feeder and conduit for the 9999 Mass Choir, the Ibom Unity Brass Band, Ekemini Kids, Akwa Ibom Voices, The Singing Bird Orchestra, Ibom Orchestra, Uyo Girls Choir, Ibom Acapella, Grace Family Choir, Intenxity, Davasol Brothers and Yama Chorale Africa.

The Nigerian national scene saw us welcome choirs such as the Abuja Metropolitan Music Society (AMEMUSO), NSCDC Band, PRM Band, Schubert Chorale, Midnight Crew and the Triumphant Philharmonic Chorale.
On the foreign scene came the Winneba Youth Choir, Ghana, National Choir of St. Kitts and Nevis, Chorale Divine De Merveilles, Congo Brazzaville, Voices of Jamaica, The Voices of Barbados, Soweto Gospel Singers, The National Choir of Togo, Soweto Spiritual Singers, Voices of Triumph, Ghana, United Cameroon Voices, Kenyan Boys Choir, Kayamba African Orchestra and Vinesong.

Beyond the Singing Ministers, we also had a fair share of Nigerian and foreign preachers. The Roll Call included Bishop Emma Isong, Bishop David Oyedepo, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Bishop Mike Okonkwo and Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai. Others are; Pastor Paul Adefarasin, Rev Fr. Justine Udoma, Dr Sylvanus Ukafia, ArchBishop Cletus Bassey, ArchBishop Udeme Simon, Rev. Angela Ashong, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, Pastor Gabriel Nkenang, Prelate Sunday Mbang, ArchBishop Chris Ekong, Pastor Agu Irukwu, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, Bishop T. D. Jakes, Rev. Jesse Jackson and Bishop Hezekiah Walker.

Against the backdrop of these success stories and in the face of daunting challenges, we never faltered because we knew that our strength did not lie solely within ourselves. It was through the abounding grace of God that we found the courage to persevere. In moments of doubt, He provided us with hope. In times of exhaustion, He renewed our strength. And in the face of adversity, He guided our every step. It was His grace that sustained us throughout those 15 remarkable years. Juxtaposed against the trials of event management, our modest strides were not a result of human effort, but a testament to the power of faith, prayer and trust in the Almighty.

Today, I stand here not only as the one who coordinated the festival but also as a humble servant of God. It is through His divine intervention that we achieved success, year after year. I would be wrong if I did not extend my deepest gratitude to every one of you who has been a part of this journey. To the artistes, musicians, choirs, and technical teams who poured their hearts into creating unforgettable performances, thank you for using your talents to glorify God. To the volunteers who selflessly dedicated their time and energy, your contributions were invaluable.

I would love to end this thanksgiving address by appreciating the very notable performers, musicians and ministers who made themselves ready tools for the consummation of our evangelical commission. To the attendees who faithfully joined us year after year, thank you for being a part of this beautiful celebration.

Finally, I want to express my profound gratitude to God, the source of all blessings. It is through His divine favour that we were able to accomplish the seemingly impossible. He guided us through every decision, strengthened us in times of weakness, and blessed us abundantly. Today, as we stand here united in gratitude, let us offer our heartfelt praise to the One who made it all possible. To God be the Glory.

In conclusion, my dear brothers and sisters, let us never forget the lessons we have learned through this journey. May we always be reminded of the power of faith, the strength of unity, and the boundless grace of our Heavenly Father. As we move forward, let us continue to use our talents to bring joy, hope, and love to others, just as we have done through the Akwa Ibom State Christmas Carols Festival.

Our prayers and goodwill are in place for the current coordinators. We sincerely believe that they would post an unforgettable event as it were. Thankfully, quite a sizeable percentage of them have come the distance with us through the years which means that the newer hands shouldn’t be lacking a ready and vast repertoire of deep experience to tap from. Therefore, as the curtains open on the new era of the Carols Festival, our stand is that ‘The Show Must Go On.’

ANIEKPENO MKPANANG
Sunday, December 10, 2023

11/12/2023

: Mkpanang Expresses Gratitude to God, Ex-Governors and Music Icons for 15 Years of Service

UYO - Aniekpeno Mkpanang has conveyed his deep appreciation to God, former Governors, and music luminaries who graced the stage during his 15-year tenure as the Coordinator of the Akwa Ibom State Christmas Carols Festival, transforming it into a global phenomenon.

During a heartwarming Thanksgiving Service in Uyo, marking the conclusion of his tenure, Mr. Mkpanang reflected on the pivotal support received from former Governors Godswill Akpabio and Udom Emmanuel, where he noted that under their leadership, the Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival evolved into a global event, symbol of unity, and a spiritual tourism event drawing worshippers, tourists and people from all walks of life, due to its standard and significance.

"I extend profound gratitude to His Excellency, former Governor Godswill Akpabio, the architect of the festival's early triumphs, for the trust bestowed upon me and the enduring legacy he initiated," Mkpanang expressed.

He further expressed heartfelt appreciation to His Excellency, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, the immediate past Governor, describing him as a "custodian of the flame whose commitment resonates in the hearts of the people".

In his address, Mkpanang highlighted a comprehensive list of Gospel Music Evangelists who graced the festival's stage, ranging from indigenous talents like Pat Akpabio, Aity Dennis-Inyang, Bobby Friga, Nathaniel Bassey, Freke Umoh, Esther Edoho, David Gospel, Pat Ekwere, Uduakobong Akpan Jnr, Darlene Benson, El-Mafrex, David Eka and Julius Nglass, to national and international icons such as Sinach, Frank Edwards, Lara George, Buchi, Steve Crown, Sammie Okposo, Eben, Mercy Chinwo, Donnie McClurkin, Angela Christie, Chevelle Franklyn, Shirley Caesar, Nicole Mullen, Master KG and Sonnie Badu, among others.

Acknowledging the contribution of choirs, both local, national and international, as well as renowned preachers, Mkpanang emphasized that the festival was not merely another regular concert, but a platform where Akwa Ibom people and the world celebrated the birth of Jesus through music and worship.

As his tenure concluded, Mkpanang expressed gratitude to all contributors to the festival's success, including artistes, musicians, clerics, choirs, technical teams, volunteers, and attendees. He expressed confidence in the current coordinators, stating that "The Show Must Go On," and urging the continuation of global annual event, spreading joy, hope, and love.

Concluding with a resounding acknowledgment, he stated, "To God be the Glory." The Akwa Ibom State Christmas Carols Festival, under Mr. Mkpanang's leadership, leaves behind a legacy of musical bliss, unity, and spiritual nourishment for the Akwa Ibom people.

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