FRIDAY April 11, 2025 |
By thenewsdesk.ng
The Ikono local government chairman, Akwa Ibom state, Oto-obong Essien, has been awarded with the Commander of Peace by the United Nations International Peace and Governance Council (UNIPGC).
UNIPGC is a key organisation focused on promoting peace, good governance and poverty eradication, particularly in Africa.
It was gathered that the award was given to the council chairman at the University of Jos on April 5th, 2025.
Speaking on her office at the council secretariat in Ikono LGA Wednesday, Essien dedicated the award to the entire local government.
The council boss believed that part of the reasons for her recognition was the active role she played in the United Nations activities when she was a councilor in her local government.
“I dedicate this award to citizens of Ikono local government area. They have been very understanding and supportive, irrespective of the fact that I am a woman. They support me to succeed and so I dedicate this award to them.
You know UN has a way of doing their things and I would not know how I was nominated, but I remember that I used to be active in UN activities. Anytime I see an opening in UN, I register to participate in it.
“I was once appointed as state coordinator of Organised Private Sector in Water Sanitation and Hygiene in Nigeria (OPSWASH), UN.
“I remember when I took girls from my local government to participate in the 2024 United Nations competitions and I thought what I did not matter as at then, but they added up to my recognition by the International Body.”
She stated that part of the strategies she adopts to maintain and sustain peace in the area is engaging the youth and women in agriculture and skill acquisition.
“By way of maintaining peace in this local government, my administration has engaged the women, youth and everyone in different areas,” she said.
