Akwa Ibom State is set to turn this year’s Christmas Unplugged celebration into a showcase of its diverse cultural and culinary heritage, with the 31 local government areas to take turns presenting their indigenous delicacies at the Christmas Village.
Governor Umo Eno announced the arrangement on Wednesday at the September State Covenant Service held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo, saying the participating councils would draw lots on September 23 during the State Variety Night to determine their respective dates.
Unlike previous editions when activities traditionally began with Abak Local Government Area, Eno said the new arrangement would give every council an equal opportunity to participate and ensure that no area was favoured in the scheduling of activities.
The Governor said each local government area would also draw lots for the delicacy it would prepare and display, with a dedicated kitchen provided for each council on its assigned day. He said the initiative would promote cultural preservation while creating an avenue for residents and visitors to experience the richness of Akwa Ibom cuisine.
The programme will also feature a Christmas Carols Festival on December 18, with interested choirs expected to participate in a draw for performance slots. Eno said the various arrangements were designed to make the celebration more inclusive and provide equal opportunities for citizens to be part of the State’s Yuletide activities.
Meanwhile, the Governor disclosed that the State Social Register would be expanded to accommodate more vulnerable residents ahead of Christmas, with palliatives planned for the festive period. He also announced N20 million support for 200 women through cooperative societies in each ward in October, while a N1 billion youth empowerment programme would subsequently be implemented in each of the 31 local government areas.
Eno also announced the arrival of the final 10 of the 50 CNG buses acquired by the State, saying training of drivers and technical personnel had delayed their deployment. The buses, he said, would link the 31 local government areas and reduce transportation costs by about 50 per cent, even as he urged residents to maintain peace, unity and gratitude as the State marks its 39th anniversary.
