Aniekeme Finbarr
The Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal College of Education (FCE), Ididep, Mr. Cletus Obun, has been conferred with the prestigious “Ntrukpom” (Eagle) chieftaincy title by the Paramount Ruler of Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, His Royal Majesty, Okuku (Dr.) Ime Udousoro Inyang.
The conferment formed a major highlight of the 2026 Edu Uwem Ibiono Ibom Festival, held in Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area from September 4 to 7, 2026.
The four-day cultural festival, themed “Ibiono Ibom: Yesteryears, Today, and Forever,” attracted government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, academics, professionals and cultural enthusiasts from within and outside the state.
The monarch said the honour was in recognition of Obun’s integrity, commitment to community development and contributions to the advancement of the ideals and interests of the Ibiono Ibom people.
Speaking at the conferment ceremony, Okuku Inyang stressed the importance of recognising individuals whose service and dedication had positively impacted society.
The Paramount Ruler described Obun as a “first-class warrior for Ibiono Ibom,” commending his courage, tenacity and commitment to causes that promote the development and wellbeing of the people.
He also acknowledged the support and contributions of individuals who had helped to position Obun for the recognition.
In his response, Obun expressed appreciation to the Paramount Ruler, the Palace Advisory Council and the people of Ibiono Ibom for the honour.
He dedicated the chieftaincy title to the collective progress of the people, pledging to continue supporting initiatives focused on human capital development, community advancement and stronger social bonds.
Speaking on behalf of the G-37 Forum, Mr. Miriki Ebikibina, alongside his counterpart from Ebonyi State, Chief Samuel Igwe, congratulated the people of Ibiono Ibom for recognising Obun.
They described the awardee as a distinguished statesman and community builder whose record of service had continued to attract recognition across different spheres.
The Chairman of the Forum of FCE Governing Council Chairmen and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal College of Education, Obudu, Cross River State, Alhaji Ahmad Abdullah, also commended the Paramount Ruler for honouring an active member of the forum.
Abdullah described Obun’s contributions to nation-building and the development of the education sector as exemplary.
Among the dignitaries who attended the ceremony were the Member representing Ibiono Ibom State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Moses Essien; APC Deputy Chairman I, Hon. Imo Ekop; International President of the Ibiono Ibom Welfare and Development Union (IWADU), Otuekong Godwin Okon; Obonganwan Akon Uwah; Obong J.J. Akpan; Barr. Edet Ikoidem; and Obonganwan Grace Inyang.
Also present were several regional stakeholders and academic leaders, including the Provost of the Federal College of Education, Ididep, Dr. Wilson Udofia; Registrar, Mr. Daniel Awowo; and Dr. Amadu Attai.