20/09/2025
From Four to Twenty-One Nations: Building a Stronger Akwa Ibom Diaspora”, ...President Iquot Declares at the ASACOP Conference, 2025
The Association of Akwa Ibom Communities’ Presidents Worldwide (ASACOP), with membership drawn from 21 countries across the globe, held its International Conference 2025 in grand style on September 18, 2025, at Watbridge Hotels and Suites, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Themed: “Akwa Ibom State Across the World: Promoting Diaspora Values, with a focus of expanding the ARISE Agenda Beyond Akwa Ibom State, Diaspora Contributions and Incentives,” the event brought together distinguished leaders, stakeholders, and citizens in the Diaspora, united in their commitment to strengthen Akwa Ibom’s global influence.
In his welcome address, International President Obong (Engr.) Itoro Akpan Iquot reflected on the humble beginnings of ASACOP, inspired by the values of unity and community service instilled in him by his late father during union meetings in the 1980s and 1990s.
“According to Obong Iquot, what began in 2020 with four countries, USA, South Africa, Nigeria, and Scotland, has now expanded to 21 nations,” President Iquot declared, expressing confidence that more countries will join following the conference.
He highlighted ASACOP’s achievements in just four years, including:
* Partnering with the Akwa Ibom State Government to relocate 40 internally displaced persons of Akwa Ibom origin back home.
* Raising $5,000 in donations from individuals in the Diaspora to support welfare initiatives.
* Advocating for business support, financial empowerment, and job creation for Akwa Ibom citizens globally.
He emphasized that ASACOP is “not a divider of the global Akwa Ibom community, but an umbrella body that complements and unites efforts worldwide.”
President Iquot announced a staggering $51 billion in total Diaspora remittances from Akwa Ibom indigenes worldwide, underscoring the Diaspora’s role in advancing the state’s development.
He pledged ASACOP’s commitment to working closely with the Akwa Ibom State Government under Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, serving as a liaison to harness human capital and financial resources for progress.
Furthermore, he urged the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly to sponsor a bill establishing an Akwa Ibom Indigenes in Diaspora and Internal Migrants Commission, designed to coordinate structured engagement with Akwa Ibom people living outside the state.
Delivering the keynote address, Ide Owodiong Idemeko stressed that the Diaspora’s role extends beyond financial remittances. He called for:
* Strategic investments in healthcare to reduce medical tourism.
* Harnessing Akwa Ibom’s creative economy, including cuisine, culture, and entertainment.
* Expanding investment opportunities through platforms like the Akicorp Business Investment Desk in Akwa Ibom, which will serve as a liaison for global investors.
“Building a bridge between home and abroad is critical,” he noted, while commending Governor Umo Eno for strides in infrastructure and medical investment.
Also speaking at the event, the international Secretary of the Association, Adede Barr. Aniefiok Ibah (JP), alongside Uwem Equan (USA) echoed a shared commitment to uniting all sons and daughters of Akwa Ibom State in the Diaspora. They emphasized that the collective goal is to foster love, strengthen unity, and drive progress while giving back meaningfully to the homeland.
Academic grants awarded to 62 undergraduate and postgraduate students across 31 local government areas.
Delivering a note of appreciation, Mrs. Victoria Inyang Otu (Canada) urged members to remain steadfast, fostering love and unity while also seizing investment opportunities back home for the benefit of indigenes.
The conference climaxed with a glamorous Gala and Awards Night, featuring cultural displays, networking, and the cutting of the First International Cake by Diaspora and state presidents, a historic moment of unity.
Highlights included:
Awards presentation to outstanding Akwa Ibom sons and daughters in the Diaspora.
Enthralling choral performances and cultural showcases that captivated attendees.
In his goodwill message, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, former Secretary to the State Government, encouraged the Diaspora community to intensify support for the ARISE Agenda, praising Governor Umo Eno’s developmental strides.
The event provided a unique platform for business discussions, cultural exchange, and networking, leaving participants inspired by the shared vision of building a stronger, united, and progressive Akwa Ibom Diaspora.
ASACOP conference 2025 was more than a conference, it was a celebration of unity, vision, and the boundless potential of Akwa Ibom people across the world.