By Bishop Ani Jacob
Preamble
I recently returned to the United States after spending one memorable month in Nigeria. Although I travelled to different places, my primary focus was spending quality time in my beloved state of Akwa Ibom.
This journey was much more than a visit home and a mission trip. It became an opportunity to observe the remarkable transformation taking place across the state, reconnect with family and friends, fellowship with my Church family, participate in ministry, contribute to community development, and witness firsthand the progress that continues to position Akwa Ibom as one of Nigeria’s finest states.
These reflections are simply the honest observations of what I personally experienced during my stay.
First impression of Akwa Ibom
The first thing that captured my attention was the breathtaking greenery and beauty of Akwa Ibom State. Everywhere I travelled, I saw a state that has carved a niche for itself in cleanliness, peace, hospitality, and orderliness.
Uyo, the state capital, continues to distinguish itself as one of Nigeria’s most beautiful cities. The environment is welcoming, the roads are well maintained, and the people remain warm, respectful, and accommodating.
From the moment I arrived, I felt proud to call Akwa Ibom home.
Security—A model worth commending
One of the greatest surprises during my visit was the impressive level of security across the state.
Highly trained police officers patrol the city day and night, while strategically located checkpoints are professionally managed without causing unnecessary traffic congestion.
One evening, while my family and I were relaxing outside our compound enjoying the cool evening breeze, we suddenly heard two loud gunshots from what appeared to be a nearby Mobile Police security post.
Out of curiosity, my brother contacted the State Security Control Office.
To our amazement, within just a few minutes, a team of well-equipped security officers arrived in our community to assess the situation.
Witnessing such a swift emergency response reminded me of what is commonly experienced in many advanced nations.
This gave me great confidence in the state’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
Bishop Jacob preaches at the House of Ambassadors Chapel International, Uyo, recently
Akwa Ibom —Destination for tourism, investment
Security remains one of the strongest foundations for economic growth.
Based on my personal observations, I can confidently say that Akwa Ibom has positioned itself as a destination for tourism, investment, and peaceful living.
Its beautiful environment, modern infrastructure, peaceful atmosphere, and hospitable people make it a state where anyone can comfortably live and proudly call home.
The Victor Attah International Airport
As I departed for Lagos aboard Ibom Air, I had the privilege of flying through the newly completed Akwa Ibom International Airport.
The airport immediately impressed me with its modern architectural design, spacious terminal, cleanliness, and world-class facilities.
The check-in process was smooth and efficient.
This airport represents much more than a transportation facility. It symbolizes vision, progress, and the determination of Akwa Ibom State to compete globally by attracting tourists, investors, and businesses.
It stands as another proud achievement for the state.
Some members of the House of Ambassadors Chapel International Family men’s department on Father’s Day celebration
Governor Umo Eno’s scorecard
In my opinion, Pastor Umo Eno’s leadership scorecard is both impressive and commendable.
The developmental strides currently taking place throughout Akwa Ibom State reflect visionary leadership and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of the people.
From infrastructure development and environmental sanitation to improved security and modernization of public facilities, the progress is clearly visible.
No government is without challenges, and there is always room for improvement. Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge visible achievements whenever they occur.
My visit left me encouraged and optimistic about the future of Akwa Ibom.
I commend Governor Pastor Eno for his dedication to public service and encourage him to remain steadfast in pursuing policies that promote peace, sustainable development, and economic prosperity.
Community development through Ambassadors Foundation
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my visit was participating in community development through our ministry’s humanitarian arm, Ambassadors Foundation.
As part of our commitment to social responsibility, we sponsored the grading and rehabilitation of several deplorable streets in Atai Obio Offot, Uyo.
The poor condition of these roads had created serious challenges for motorists, residents, business owners, and emergency responders.
Through this intervention, accessibility improved significantly, bringing relief and renewed hope to the community.
This experience reaffirmed my conviction that ministry extends beyond the pulpit. It includes practical acts of compassion that improve lives and transform communities.
We remain committed to serving humanity through both the Gospel and meaningful community development.
Trash bin on Idoro Road and some streets within Uyo
While I was greatly impressed by the state’s cleanliness, I also observed an area that deserves attention.
Idoro Road is one of the busiest and most strategic roads in Uyo. It serves as a major route leading to the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium and the newly constructed Electric Vehicle Charging Station.
However, I noticed that a large refuse bin frequently overflowed with waste, causing trash to spill onto the roadway.
On some occasions, the refuse container occupied nearly half of the road, creating a potential traffic hazard.
I respectfully suggest that the relevant environmental authorities increase the frequency of waste collection while ensuring that refuse bins are properly positioned.
Likewise, traders operating in the area should be encouraged to bag their waste before depositing it into the refuse container.
Maintaining cleanliness is a shared responsibility between government and citizens.
Time with my Church family
One of the greatest highlights of my trip was spending time with our beloved church family at House of Ambassadors Chapel International, Uyo.
Moments like these are deeply precious to my wife and me.
There is no greater joy than reuniting with the sons and daughters God has entrusted to our spiritual care.
The atmosphere throughout our meetings was filled with God’s presence.
The preaching of the Word brought encouragement and spiritual growth, while the praise and worship led by our guest psalmists ushered the congregation into a powerful encounter with God.
The climax of our gathering was the Impartation Service.
Our father in the Lord, Prelate Professor Isaiah Issong, graciously honored us with his presence.
Through his ministry, he released prophetic declarations, impartation, and fatherly blessings upon every member of the House of Ambassadors Chapel International family and all who attended the service.
It was truly a life-changing encounter that will remain in our hearts for years to come.
Council of Chiefs of Atai Obio Offot visited Bishop Jacob, left, during his recent visit to Uyo
The seven-hour prayer summit
Another unforgettable experience during my visit was attending the Seven-Hour Prayer Summit at Believers Assembly Headquarters, Uyo.
When my father in the Lord, Prelate Professor Isaiah Issong, extended the invitation, I gladly accepted.
From beginning to end, the atmosphere was charged with passionate worship, fervent intercession, and the undeniable presence of God.
Powerful men and women of God lifted their voices in prayer for Governor Eno, the peace and prosperity of Akwa Ibom State, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the nation as a whole.
The seven-hour prayer marathon demonstrated the power of united prayer and reminded everyone present that when God’s people seek His face, heaven responds.
I left spiritually refreshed, strengthened, and encouraged.
Final reflections
As my visit came to an end, I departed Akwa Ibom with a heart full of gratitude.
I witnessed a state blessed with visionary leadership, peaceful communities, improved security, modern infrastructure, vibrant churches, and resilient people.
I also had the privilege of serving through Ambassadors Foundation, worshipping with our church family, receiving fresh spiritual impartation, and participating in a historic prayer gathering.
Although no society is perfect, Akwa Ibom continues to move in a positive direction worthy of recognition and encouragement.
My sincere prayer is that God will continue to bless Akwa Ibom State with peace, unity, wisdom, and sustainable development.
May its leaders continue to govern with integrity.
May its citizens remain united.
May its communities continue to prosper.
May the Church continue to shine as a beacon of hope.
And may generations yet unborn inherit an Akwa Ibom that is stronger, safer, cleaner, and more prosperous than ever before.
Until my next visit, thank you, Akwa Ibom.
Your beauty, your people, your progress, and your spirit will always have a special place in my heart.
Bishop Jacob is the Founder and presiding Bishop at Christ Ambassadors Ministries International USA and House of Ambassadors Chapel international Uyo, Nigeria
