Information boss identifies education as greatest gift to children

The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr. Aniekan Umanah, has said that quality education is the greatest asset parents can give to their children, to ensure a full realization of their potentials and become strong pillars of support to the society.

Mr Umanah stated this on Sunday when he was honoured with the ‘Man among Men’ award by the Catholic Men Organization, Abak Parish, as part of activities marking this year’s Father’s Day celebration of the Church.

The Commissioner, who was honoured alongside 19 other personalities for their contributions to the development of the church, said investing in children’s education is the most effective means of reducing poverty and inequality.

He advised parents to encourage their children to go to school and devote themselves to studies for great academic attainments.
The Information Boss instructed that focus should be given to girl-child education as this, he said, will promote the training and empowerment of one woman who will bring about a total change in the family and society.
According to him, apart from being the key to unlocking a country’s potentials for economic growth, education enables a man to earn respect and recognition.

 Mr. Umanah dedicated the award given him to God for his blessings and to the State Governor, Chief Godswill Akpabio, who gave him the opportunity to contribute his quota in the service of his fatherland.

While thanking the Catholic Men Organization, Abak Parish for finding him fit for the honour, the Commissioner expressed that the award will further encourage him to devote himself to the service of God and humanity.
Presenting the award, the Abak Parish Priest, Very Reverend Father Peter Tombere, said it was proper to recognize those who have worked hard and contributed to the growth of the church and society.

Rev Father Tombere, who is the Dean of Abak Deanery, while praising Mr Aniekan Umanah for positively projecting the image of Akwa Ibom State and for affecting the lives of the people, also advised other well-meaning Nigerians to use their offices to touch lives.  

Among other award recipients were, former Commissioner for Information, Mr. Moses Ekpo; former Member representing Abak State Constituency, Mr Uwem Udoma, former Chairman of Etim Ekpo LGA, Barr. Chris Okorie and a businessman, Engr. Nicholas Idungafa.

The event, which took place at St. John’s Pro Cathedral, Abak, saw worshippers appreciating God in praises for keeping making them witnesses to the day.