The Akwa Ibom State government is no stranger to throwing spectacular Christmas carol services.
The recent 2022 edition lived up to its reputation, as it was nothing short of excitement and fun, with dignitaries converged from all walks of life to celebrate the birth of Christ at the Ibom Hall Arena, Uyo, on Friday, December 16, 2022.
The state Governor Udom Emmanuel, dressed in a white suit complemented with a red bowtie, appreciated the dignitaries present.
One of the highlights of the event was when the Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke; and one of the spokespersons for the People’s Democratic Party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar’s campaign, Senator Dino Melaye, danced rapturously to the melodious songs rendered by a gospel musician, Solomon Moses. Many couldn’t help but watch in delight as the two personalities let down their guards and danced to the melodious music wafting from the speakers.
Another highlight of the event was the presentation of the maiden Emmanuel Award for Excellence in Gospel Music to singer, Nathaniel Bassey, by the governor. The award was accompanied with a cheque of $10,000. The co-ordinator of the Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival, Aniekpeno Mkpanang, was also awarded the Governor’s Excellence in Service Award for his dedication to the state, and his service to the governor.
Some of the artistes who performed at the programme were Sonnie Badu, Jonathan Nelson, Emmanuel Benjamin, aka Eben; Osinachi Kalu; while a popular pastor, David Ibiyeomie, presided over the ceremony.
Dignitaries at the event included the Vice Presidential candidate of the PDP, Ifeanyi Okowa; a former governor of Cross River, Liyel Imoke; and a former Benue State governor, Gabriel Suswam; among many others.
