In a bid to expand his leadership outreach among cultural groups in the Annang nation, the International President of Ati Annang, Adede Aniekpeno Mkpanang, today led members of his cabinet on a courtesy visit to the Itai Afe Annang, His Royal Majesty, Obong Blaze Wakama, at his residence in Abak.
In his address, Mkpanang stated that the visit was driven by his strong desire to transform Ati Annang into an organization admired by all. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and building strong synergies with other sociocultural groups, such as Afe Annang, to achieve this goal.
He assured the Itai-in-Council of his unwavering commitment to upholding the norms, values, and respect for Annang’s revered traditional rulers. Expressing confidence in a new era for Ati Annang, he affirmed that the organization would demonstrate humility toward the custodians of Annang traditions.
The President further explained that the delegation’s visit was to declare their support for Obong Wakama and his council, expressing readiness to work closely with him as a trailblazer in Annang leadership.
He also reiterated Ati Annang’s willingness to partner with Afe Annang to ensure the successful ceremonial installation of His Royal Majesty, Obong Blaze Wakama, as the 5th Itai-in-Council, while seeking his royal blessings and fatherly advice for the success of his administration.
In his response, the premier traditional ruler, Obong Wakama, expressed deep appreciation to Ati Annang under Mkpanang’s leadership for the honor bestowed upon him. “I will never forget this day in a hurry. I am grateful to be alive to witness such a momentous occasion,” he said.
On Mkpanang’s emergence as the 5th President of Ati Annang, the Itai expressed joy, noting that nothing happens by chance. “God has ordained you to lead Ati Annang at this time,” he stated.
Obong Wakama commended the Ati President for his swift action and dedication to driving positive change in the organization, praying for divine guidance upon him and his executive council.
Earlier, the Chairman of Board of Trustees in Ati Annang Foundation, Sir Emem Akpabio appealed to the Itai Afe Annang to use his good office to encourage Annang language among school children in his clan, while expressing disappointment over lacuna created in between the language and people, according Sir Akpabio, some of our children couldn’t speak nor understand Annang dialect.
He begged on the Itai and council to encourage, parents, teachers and caregivers to be involved in the teaching of the language
About Ati Annang
Ati Annang is a socio-cultural organization representing the Annang people, an ethnic group primarily located in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.
The Annang homeland covers eight local government areas (LGAs) in Akwa Ibom, including: Abak, Essien Udim, Etim Ekpo, Ika, Ikot Ekpene, Obot Akara, Oruk Anam and Ukanafun.