Ikot Ekpene Media Connect

07/05/2026

AKSEPWMA Intensifies Crackdown on Scavengers, Illegal Scrap Dumps
…Ikim vows to restore sanity in the sector

As the clampdown on illegal scavenging and unregulated scrap dumps intensifies, the Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA), Obong Prince Ikim, has reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to sanitising the sector.

Speaking during an enforcement raid on May 6, 2026, Prince Ikim stated that AKSEPWMA will not relent in its efforts until order and sanity are fully restored within the scrap and waste management ecosystem.

He noted that the activities of illegal scavengers significantly undermine proper waste management practices, explaining that they often scatter already bagged refuse, rummage through dumpsters, and litter the environment in the process of scavenging.

The Chairman further revealed that many illegal scrap dump sites have been identified as criminal hideouts and centres for drug-related activities. These observations, he said, were made during a two-day enforcement operation targeting key locations within the Uyo metropolis.

Prince Ikim emphasised that for any scrap dump to operate legally, it must be duly registered and licensed, allowing for proper monitoring and regulation by the government to curb criminal activities.

During today’s operation, over 10 scavengers were arrested across multiple locations, including Idoro, Uruan Street, Shelter Afrique, and the Two-Lane axis.

He assured residents that the Agency will sustain the ongoing enforcement drive and urged the public to support government efforts by adhering to proper waste disposal practices and reporting suspicious activities.

© Info & PR Unit, AKSEPWMA
06/05/2026

07/05/2026

AKSG Seals Off Illegal Dump Points At Ibom Plaza, Announces Heavy Crackdown on Defaulters

​To restore sanity to the heart of Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State Government through its Waste management agency, AKSEPWMA, has officially sealed off illegal dump points at the Ibom Plaza axis, specifically along Ikot Ekpene Road.

​Over time, the Ibom Plaza hub, a nerve center of the city's commercial and social activity, had been overwhelmed by an uptick in indiscriminate waste disposal. Despite repeated warnings from the state government, residents and traders had continued the practice, turning the scenic plaza into an eyesore.

​Earlier today, May 6, 2026, the agency shifted from advocacy to enforcement. Led by its chairman, Obong Prince Ikim, and accompanied by a team of the agency's supervisors, AKSEPWMA personnel cordoned off the affected areas to prevent further environmental degradation.

​Addressing the community of small-scale business owners and commuters during the exercise, Ikim made the government’s position clear. He noted that the era of "deaf ears" is over, as the agency has officially launched “Operation Keep Ibom Plaza Clean.”

​Ikim emphasized that there would be zero tolerance and no mercy for anyone caught littering or dumping refuse in unauthorized spots moving forward.

To ensure compliance, a strict fine of 50,000 Naira has been instituted for any individual or business found defaulting.

​Ibom Plaza is the face of Uyo, and the accumulation of waste in such a high-traffic area poses significant health risks while undermining the state’s efforts to maintain its clean status. Residents and traders around the Plaza environs are now urged to utilize only designated waste bins, report illegal dumping, and collaborate with AKSEPWMA to maintain the sanitary standards of the capital city.

​Iinfo/PR Unit,
AKSEPWMA

05/05/2026

AKSEPWMA Clamps Down on Scavengers in Uyo
…arrests defaulters for prosecution
‎…Scavengers’ activities militate against proper waste management practices, says Ikim
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‎The Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA) has intensified its crackdown on illegal scavenging activities across key locations in Uyo.
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‎Speaking briefly before the exercise, the Chairman of AKSEPWMA reiterated the Agency’s commitment to maintaining environmental sanity, warning that the government will no longer tolerate activities that undermine proper waste management systems.
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‎He added that defaulters will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
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‎During the operation, defaulters were arrested along Stadium Road, Uyo, while further enforcement was carried out at the Two-Lane axis. Additional arrests were also recorded along Abak Road by the State Secretariat fence.
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‎Arrests were further made at a scavengers’ camp discovered on Nsikak Eduok Avenue, close to a dump point, as part of the ongoing enforcement exercise.
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‎The enforcement team also visited the Idoro Road dump point as part of efforts to monitor compliance with approved waste disposal practices.
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‎Authorities noted that illegal scavenging continues to undermine effective waste management across dump sites in the state, stressing that enforcement will be sustained to restore order and ensure environmental safety.
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‎The Agency expressed appreciation to the Nigeria Police Force for their swift intervention in apprehending the defaulters during the operation. It also called on relevant authorities to urgently demolish the identified shanties, noting that such structures not only encourage illegal scavenging but also serve as hideouts for criminal activities.
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©Info & PR Unit, AKSEPWMA
05052026

04/05/2026

Unity and Vision Inspire New Community Project in Ikot Akpan Abia

On Saturday, 2nd May 2026, the people of Ikot Akpan Abia village in Ikot Ekpene LGA, witnessed another significant milestone in community development with the official commissioning of two newly constructed block shops aimed at boosting local trade and generating sustainable revenue for the community.

The project was officially commissioned by the Councilor representing Ikot Ekpene ward 8, Hon. Nsini Umoh, whose presence reaffirmed the commitment of the Ward leadership towards grassroots development and people oriented project.

The initiative was facilitated by the Village Chairman, Comrade James Udofia, alongside members of his cabinet, with the support and leadership of the Village Head, Chief Jarome Patrick. The project reflects the collaboration and unity of the village leadership to promote economic growth, improve local infrastructure, and open opportunities that will positively impact residents of the area.

Speaking during the event, Hon. Nsini Umoh appreciated the unity and leadership style demonstrated by the village executives, describing the project as a clear example of community partnership accompanied by purposeful leadership at the grassroots. He further assured the people of his continuous support for progressive ideas and developmental ideas aimed at advancing the welfare of the community.

The commissioning of the block shops also fits in with the broader infrastructural and developmental goal championed in positioning Ikot Ekpene as “the first and the best,” in line with the ARISE Agenda of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno.

The event had in attendance key stakeholders and community leaders, including the Village Head, Chief Jarome Patrick, Village Executive members led by the Chairman, Comr. James Udofia, the APC Ward 8 Chairman, Elder Paulinus Udo, Youth President, Comr. Nnabuk Gabriel, Women Leader, Chairman of the Works Committee, Mr. Iboro Akpan, and other prominent sons and daughters of the community who gathered to celebrate the development.

The successful completion and commissioning of the project stand as a testament to the power of unity, visionary leadership, and collective responsibility in driving sustainable community development.

© Ikot Ekpene Media Connect
04052026

01/05/2026

IKOT EKPENE FIRST LADY EMPOWERS WOMEN WITH BUSINESS GRANTS

Women in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area have continued to benefit from targeted economic empowerment programmes as the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Affiong Nkom, sustained its business grant and livelihood support initiative aimed at improving household incomes and promoting self-reliance.

The latest round of empowerment was held on Friday, May 1, 2026, at the Ikot Ekpene Council Hall during the monthly Women Prayer Summit, which brought together women from across the 12 wards of the local government area. The summit was themed “Peace in the Panic,” inspired by the biblical text Matthew 8:23–27.

Addressing participants, the Wife of the Chairman of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, Mrs. Affiong Nkom, reiterated her commitment to the economic upliftment of women, especially widows and the less privileged. She described the initiative as a deliberate and sustained intervention designed to provide financial support and strengthen small-scale enterprises within the grassroots.

According to her, the beneficiaries were carefully selected to ensure equitable representation across all wards, noting that the programme reflects the administration’s inclusive approach to development.

Mrs. Nkom urged the beneficiaries to make prudent and purposeful use of the funds, emphasizing that the grants were specifically intended to support and expand existing businesses rather than serve as personal upkeep.

“The fund is not a feeding allowance but support for your existing businesses,” she stressed.

She further explained that the initiative is geared towards building financial independence among women, reducing economic vulnerability, and enhancing their capacity to contribute meaningfully to their families and communities.

In her remarks, the Vice Chairman of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, Obonganwan Abigail Akpan, called on the women to remain supportive of the administration of Governor Umo Eno, emphasizing that the implementation phase of governance under the ARISE Agenda was already yielding visible results.

She noted that this was a critical period for citizens to consolidate on the gains of good governance by demonstrating continued loyalty and support for leaders at all levels. She further urged the women to align with ongoing political efforts by supporting the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as backing the leadership of the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Governor Umo Eno, and the Member representing Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara State Constituency in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Jerry Otu stressing that sustained support for these leaders would ensure continuity in development programmes and the delivery of democratic dividends to the people.

The event also featured a spiritual session, where Pastor (Mrs.) Susan Ukoabasi delivered a homily centred on faith and resilience. She encouraged the women to remain steadfast in their walk with God, noting that a life rooted in faith and covenant relationship with God provides peace even in times of uncertainty and crisis and urged participants to continually dwell in God’s presence, adding that spiritual stability is key to navigating life’s challenges and maintaining inner peace amid external pressures.

The programme also featured presentation of wrappers to the women.

Otobong Eshiet
1st May, 2026

01/05/2026

27/04/2026

IKIM EMERGES 2026 ACPN MALARIA MAN OF THE YEAR

…Anti-malaria drug resistance and insecticide resistance pose new threats – ACPN
The Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA), Obong Dr. Prince Ikim, has been named the ACPN Malaria Man of the Year 2026.

The recognition is in acknowledgement of his sustained efforts in promoting environmental sanitation and his commitment to eliminating mosquito breeding sites across Akwa Ibom State.

Notably, Obong Dr. Prince Ikim also received the same honour in 2025, making him a two-time consecutive recipient of the award.

The award will be formally presented at the 5th Annual Scientific Conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Akwa Ibom State, scheduled for June 17, 2026.

The announcement was made on April 25, 2026, at Itam Central Motor Park during activities marking the 2026 World Malaria Day, themed: “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can, Now We Must.”

Addressing the large crowd, the State Chairman of the Association, Pharm. Adigom Donatus, noted that Nigeria bears the highest malaria burden globally, accounting for nearly 27% of global cases and over 30% of malaria-related deaths.

He revealed that in 2024, about 282 million malaria cases and 610,000 deaths were recorded worldwide, with Nigeria accounting for between 194,000 and 200,000 deaths.

He added that from January to September 2025 alone, 24.5 million confirmed malaria cases were reported in Nigeria.
Pharm. Adigom Donatus emphasized that while ending malaria remains achievable, emerging challenges such as anti-malaria drug resistance and insecticide resistance to mosquito nets are posing new threats.

The event featured health awareness campaigns, games, cash giveaways, and the distribution of anti-malaria drugs to participants, who expressed appreciation for the impactful health education.

25/04/2026

April Sanitation Exercise Update

Despite the heavy rainfall, personnel of the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency were fully on ground across the state for the April monthly sanitation exercise, carrying out evacuation of waste from key dumpsites.

Operational teams were active along Abak Road, Ikot Okubo, and at Ebet Eya Street by IBB Avenue (the dumpsite after Samlaw Hotel), alongside several other locations where similar activities were ongoing simultaneously.

The exercise focused on clearing accumulated waste, improving environmental conditions, and reducing potential health risks, particularly in busy areas.

This effort reflects the Agency’s consistency and commitment to maintaining a cleaner and healthier environment for residents across Akwa Ibom State.

©️ Info & PR Unit;
AKSEPWMA
25042026

25/04/2026

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