Salvation Army Honours Elder Iniobong Obot, Dr. Andy Eyo, Others for Humanitarian Services
By Henshaw NYONG, Uyo.
A renowned philanthropist, financial expert, and politician, Akparawa (Elder) Iniobong Obot, on Saturday, added another feather to his cap as he was honoured with the prestigious Award of Excellence by the Salvation Army, Uyo Central Corps Band.
According to the church, the award was bestowed on the Men’s Leader of the Apostolic Church,Uyo, for his remarkable contributions to society, steadfast commitment to faith, and relentless efforts in impacting humanity.
The award ceremony, held at the Uyo Central Corps of the Church, Udotung Ubo Street, Uyo, was one of the activities marking their “In Profile Night.”
Obot was honoured alongside several other distinguished personalities, including the Chief Executive Officer of the Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS), Dr. Andy Samuel Eyo; the Director and Head of the Directorate of Agricultural Investments at Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation (AKICORP), Mr. Ofonime Nelson Akpan; a well-traveled diplomat and agriculturalist, Dr. Janet Mfon Bassey; Group Executive Director of African Industries Group, Barr. Uche Bertram Iwuamadi; a university don, Dr. Clement Olusegun; a management consultant, Apostle (Dr.) Nnamdi Mbaigbo; and a public health expert, Dr. Nkereuwem Akpan Etok, among others.
In his welcome speech, Bandmaster Joseph M. Akpan thanked all the distinguished guests who took the time to celebrate with the church on this remarkable milestone in its existence.
He noted that the church’s various charity projects have brought them closer to many kind-hearted individuals who have also dedicated their lives to serving humanity, providing aid, and rescuing the less privileged, one of them being the Nsit Atai-born technocrat, Akparawa Iniobong Obot.
While receiving his award, Obot, who is also the National Youth Leader of the Uyo Senatorial District People’s Initiative (USPI), expressed pride and delight in being deemed worthy of the recognition. He emphasized that philanthropy has become his life’s passion, a commitment he pursues selflessly without seeking earthly rewards.
The Apostolic Church elder, while thanking the Salvation Army for creating many positive impacts in the body of Christ, urged youths to take centre stage in matters of the Lord, stating that the future of the church belongs to the youth.
“This is not the first time I am receiving an award of this nature. However, this one is very close to my heart, especially since it reflects the core reason for my existence and my deepest passion. It is not about money, and for this, I thank the Salvation Army,” Obot stated.
Quoting 1 Timothy 2:1-2, which states, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness,” Elder Obot appealed to the church and other religious organizations in Akwa Ibom to pray for and intensify their support for the State Governor, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D, and the ARISE Agenda.
The Deputy Political Leader of Eastern Nsit, Ward 6, Nsit Atai LGA, dedicated the award to his wife, Mrs. Edidiong Obot and daughter, Amaris, who accompanied him to the ceremony, as well as all people of goodwill.
