It was a bright and symbolic Sunday, July 27, 2025, when the vibrant Uruan community in Lagos gathered at the AKISCOM Secretariat in Surulere to elect new executives under their umbrella body, Esop Ndito Uruan, Lagos. The mood was celebratory but purposeful — a reflection of both the cultural pride and the pressing need for unity among indigenes of Uruan Local Government Area residing in Lagos.
Before this election, a standby executive team had been overseeing the group’s affairs following the passing of the last elected president. As early as 2:30 pm, the venue was already alive with the buzz of accreditation as members presented valid membership cards and cleared dues in preparation to vote.
The election, organized by a three-man electoral committee led by Pastor Daniel Tom, kicked off with the zoning system in place — dividing the LGA into Northern, South-South, South-East, and Central Districts to ensure fair representation. The electoral process was smooth, transparent, and widely applauded.
In his farewell remarks, Deacon Promise Udofia, who had served in acting capacity, praised the community for its resilience and unity, and paid tribute to the late president. He declared his readiness to continue serving, this time with the full mandate of the people.
A respected voice of guidance, Otuekong (Captain) Augustine Okon, former CEO of ADC Airline and Grand Patron of the group, moved the motion to dissolve the interim body. He commended the outgoing team for their hard work and dedication, and encouraged the community to embrace peace, transparency, and service. His motion was seconded by Pastor Udoro-Obong Jaguar Etim.
Dignitaries from the Akwa Ibom State Community in Lagos (AKISCOM) graced the occasion, including representatives from the youth wing and elders’ council. Media personnel and external observers, including Ambassador Imelda Osuji and Princess Betty Nene Okojie, also witnessed the historic moment.
When the results rolled in, the people’s voice was loud and clear:
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President: Deacon Promise Udofia (Uruan Central)
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Vice President: Elder Edet Umoh (South-East)
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General Secretary: Akparawa Akaneden Don Nyong (South-South)
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Assistant Secretary: Pastor Udoro-Obong Etim (South-South)
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Financial Secretary: Mrs. Rosaline Adaideh (Northern Uruan)
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Treasurer: Elder Peter Effiong (Central Uruan)
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Welfare Officer: Pastor Victor Elijah (South-East)
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PRO: Ambassador Cornel Udofia (Northern Uruan)
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Provost: Mr. Daniel Inyang Etim (Central Uruan)
In his acceptance speech, the newly elected President, Deacon Udofia, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him. He pledged to lead with humility, sincerity, and a deep sense of duty, promising to carry on the legacy of unity and progress for the Uruan people.
Ambassador Cornel Udofia, the elected PRO, praised God for the opportunity and thanked voters for their support. He vowed to rally the entire community towards a shared vision of development and identity.
Captain Augustine Okon, in his keynote remarks, emphasized the importance of cultural preservation. He urged the people to uphold the Uruan language, values, and traditions, reminding them that Uruan is among the earliest ethnic groups in what is now known as Akwa Ibom State.
The Election Committee Chairman, Pastor Daniel Tom, lauded the peaceful nature of the election and encouraged the new executives to serve with integrity. “It’s not about holding titles,” he warned, “but about adding value and leaving a legacy.”
The event ended on a cheerful note as the newly elected executives and guests adorned branded T-shirts — a souvenir provided by the PRO — before heading to O’JEZ for the celebration proper.
With hope renewed and a leadership team in place, the Uruan community in Lagos looks forward to a brighter future marked by unity, growth, and cultural pride.
— John Obot, FRCN
