MERILEBON ACADEMY CELEBRATES AKWA IBOM AT 36
It was such a lovely and joyous occasion in the heart of Akwa Ibomites when a new state was carved out from their Sister State, the Cross River State on September, 23, 1987.
An air of excitement and celebration enveloped the atmosphere, as everyone was itching to leave the old Cross River to herald their new Akwa Ibom upon the pronouncement by the then Military President, Gen. Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida.(rtd)
Akwa Ibom State is a state in the South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria, bounded on the east by Cross River State, on the west by Rivers State and Abia State, and on the south by the Atlantic Ocean.
Centers Of Attraction in Akwa Ibom State
The state takes its name from Qua Iboe River which bisects the state before flowing into the Bight of Bonny.Akwa lbom was carved out from Cross River State in 1987 with its capital Uyo and with 31 local government areas.
Friday 22nd September, 2023 was a day of celebration for students of MERILEBON ACADEMY Uyo, as they chose to mark the 36th anniversary of Akwa Ibom State. But this year’s event was a departure from the rest, as it was of special significance. It was marked as a day of unity and enlightenment at Merilebon school.
The sun rose with a gentle caress of golden rays that painted the landscape in hues of orange colour.
The students of Merilebon Academy, with hearts full of excitement, gathered in their colours, representing the rich cultural diversity of Akwa Ibom and it’s people.
They had been preparing for this day for weeks, rehearsing dances, songs, and speeches that would reflect the essence and history of their beloved state.
As the morning sun climbed higher, the school’s hall and courtyard was transformed into a spectacular showcase of Akwa Ibom’s cultural heritage. Traditional dancers swayed gracefully to the rhythmic beats of indigenous dances, their colourful attire glistening in the sunlight.
The celebration began with the singing of the state’s anthem, a powerful and melodic tribute to the beauty and resilience of Akwa Ibom. Then came the speeches, delivered with passion and pride by the students.
They recounted the state’s history, from its creation in 1987 to its present achievements, highlighting the number of military and civilian Governors showcasing its growth and development over the years.
Akwa Ibom Delicacies
But the day was not all about performances and displays. It was also a day of reflection and commitment. The students pledged to protect and preserve their state’s environment, to celebrate its diversity, and to work towards a brighter future for Akwa Ibom.
As the sun began to set, a sense of unity and pride filled the hearts of everyone present.
The 36th-anniversary celebration of Akwa Ibom State which its actual date for celebration is 23rd September and has been marked for celebration tomorrow by the State Government. This is a day that the State Government had not only marked for joyful festivities, but also a powerful reminder of the state’s rich heritage and the bright potential of its future leaders.
In the warm embrace of the morning, the students of Merilebon Academy and the staff danced together under the starry sky, celebrating their state’s 36 years of existence, unity, and hope for a better tomorrow.
It was a day they would remember for years to come, a day that strengthened their bond as proud citizens of Akwa Ibom State. Below are pictures of today’s event.
Long live Akwa Ibom State
Long live Merilebon Academy!!!
About Author
Enobong Ukpong is an Educationist with multiple skills in writing, reporting, and editing. He has not only enriched his own work but has also elevated the quality of content in various media outlets. With a commitment to precision and a passion for storytelling, Enobong Ukpong has a unique ability to convey complex ideas in a clear and captivating manner. He is currently the Press Club Cordinator in Merilebon Academy.
