27/07/2026
President Mkpanang Strengthens Grassroots Engagement, Inducts 23 New Members During Historic Visit to Ikot Abasi Chapter.
By Idorenyin Essien
The President of Ati Annang Foundation, Dede Aniekpeno Mkpanang, yesterday, Sunday, July 26, 2026, reaffirmed his administration's commitment to strengthening grassroots participation and deepening unity across all chapters of the Foundation during a historic official visit to the Ikot Abasi Chapter.
President Mkpanang was accompanied on the visit by the International Public Relations Officer 1, Dede Idorenyin Essien, the International Provost, Dede (Hon.) Ifenyin lyenam, Member of the Board of Trustees, Dada (Barr.) Ekaete Ukpong, the Chairmen of Uyo, Bishop Osukuewem Uko, Nsit Ibom, Dede Napoleon Lazarus, Ika Chapter, Dede Iniobong Ekpo, the Protocol Chief to the President, Evang. Philip Inyang, Special Assistant (Connect), Dede Vincent Etor, Special Assistant in Charge of Secretariat Compound, Dede Iberedem Asamanyie, Special Assistant, Ati Palm Grove, Dede (Hon.) Edikan Umoebe, the Immediate Past Chairman of Uyo Chapter, Dede (Hon.) Godwin Sandy, and other members of the presidential entourage.
On arrival, the President and his delegation were warmly received by the Chairman of Ikot Abasi Chapter, Dede Dennis Umoren, accompanied by the International Auditor of the Foundation, Dada Nsikan-Abasi Inyang, members of the Chapter Executive Council, and an enthusiastic gathering of members.
In a remarkable display of his people-centred leadership, the President took time to personally exchange pleasantries with members, shaking hands with the men and warmly embracing the women. He explained that maintaining direct personal contact with members is a compulsory aspect of his leadership philosophy, describing it as an effective way of strengthening the bond between the Presidency and the grassroots.
Delivering his welcome address, the Chapter Chairman, Dede Dennis Umoren, expressed profound appreciation to the President for honouring the chapter's invitation. He described the visit as historic, noting that it was the first time since the establishment of the Ikot Abasi Chapter that it had hosted a sitting President of Ati Annang Foundation.
According to him, the milestone would remain a memorable achievement for the chapter, adding that he was particularly proud that the landmark event took place during his tenure as Chairman. He further assured President Mkpanang of the unwavering support, loyalty, and solidarity of the Ikot Abasi Chapter to the programmes and vision of the 6th Presidency.
Highlighting the steady growth of the chapter, the Chairman presented 23 new members for induction into the Foundation. The induction ceremony was conducted by Dada (Barr.) Ekaete Ukpong, a member of the Board of Trustees, who administered the oath of membership to the inductees.
In separate goodwill messages, the Pioneer Chairman of the Chapter, Dede Victor Edu, commended President Mkpanang for his visionary leadership and the numerous reforms and initiatives introduced by the 6th Presidency, particularly the deliberate policy of visiting chapters to foster closer interaction with members.
While expressing appreciation for the President's achievements, Dede Edu drew attention to what he described as an unresolved issue concerning the Ati Anthem, which was composed by the Ikot Abasi Chapter, emerged victorious in a competition, but was subsequently abandoned. He appealed to the President to revisit the matter in the interest of fairness and historical recognition.
Also speaking, Sir Ufot Ineme and Dada Theresa Isip applauded the leadership style of the 6th Presidency, noting that its positive influence was evident in the quality of leadership currently being demonstrated by the Ikot Abasi Chapter Chairman in managing the affairs of the chapter.
Responding, President Mkpanang thanked members for the warm reception accorded him and his entourage. He acknowledged the concern raised by Pioneer Chairman Dede Victor Edu regarding the Ati Anthem and immediately directed the International Auditor, Dada Nsikan-Abasi Inyang, to compile a comprehensive report on the matter for presentation at the next meeting of the International Executive Council.
The President reiterated that his administration remains committed to building stronger chapters and ensuring that every member of Ati Annang Foundation actively belongs to and participates in a functional chapter. He also paid glowing tribute to the Pioneer Chairman and other founding members for remaining steadfast and continuing to support the Foundation through active chapter participation.
As part of the highpoint of the visit, President Mkpanang honoured three founding members of the Ikot Abasi Chapter with the prestigious Ati Badge in recognition of their enduring commitment and invaluable contributions to the growth of the Foundation.
He also presented the Ati Insignia to the Chapter Chairman, Dede Dennis Umoren, as a symbolic reminder and official evidence of the historic visit of the 6th President to the Ikot Abasi Chapter.
The colourful event concluded with vibrant cultural dance performances, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Annang people and adding excitement to a memorable gathering that further strengthened the bond between the Foundation's leadership and its grassroots membership.
