The Executive Chairman of Ikot Ekpene, Hon. Elder Aniefiok Nkom, has officially inaugurated the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the oldest local government in British West Africa, unveiling an ambitious roadmap to reposition “The Raffia City” as a premier destination for commerce and culture over the next 75 years.
Speaking at the Local Government Secretariat on Saturday, April 11, 2026, during the flag-off ceremony held under the theme “Celebrating Heritage, Inspiring the Future: Making the First, the Best,” Nkom declared that the 75th anniversary is far more than a nostalgic trip down memory lane but rather a “strategic platform” to trigger a cultural and economic rebirth of the region.
“Seventy-five years ago, our beloved Local Government Area was born. That singular act of vision placed us on the map not just as a people but as a pacesetter,” he added.
The Chairman, who reflected on Ikot Ekpene’s legacy of “firsts” as a commercial nerve centre and beacon of cultural richness, unveiled a roadmap of landmark events including a historic coronation and installation of the Paramount Ruler in August 2026, which is expected to restore the full traditional stature of the land, and a grand finale in December 2026 featuring a major exhibition of local products and the official commissioning of the Ikot Ekpene Local Government Shopping Mall, a project designed to revitalise commerce in the Raffia City.
Beyond the festivities, Nkom set clear strategic expectations for the jubilee, calling for enhanced international visibility, increased investment in agricultural and creative industries, and a “Cultural Renaissance” to ensure the younger generation carries the heritage forward.
While calling on investors and indigenes in the diaspora to join hands with the council to develop the area, he urged traditional fathers to remain custodians of their rich heritage.
