For the first time, the remote Inen Ikot Etim in Oruk Anam Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State got surprise succour during the 2025 International Day of Happiness celebration.
This was last Thursday, March 20, International Day of Happiness marked with the theme: Caring and Sharing, following the Citizens Outreach Nigeria (CitOut) succour ranging from health screenings, donations of essentials, stress-management sessions and cultural storytelling to the villagers.
For the villagers who experienced such philanthropic gestures, it was like a dream. The beneficiaries were forced to go berserk with different dancing steps to express their joyous mood.
The experience, according to the beneficiaries, was nothing short of life-changing. “I never imagined that people would come all the way here to care for us,” said Okuku Okon Thompson, the village Head elect. “This is the first time in my life we have received such kindness in this village, from outsiders. It feels like a dream.”
Mrs. Charity Iboroakam, a petty trader, shared her emotions, “We feel so loved and valued. This visit has given me hope that we are not forgotten. May God bless everyone who made this possible.”
The outreach also resonated deeply with Madam Alice Udo, a widow, who remarked, “This is more than just food and clothing; it’s the happiness and care that touches the heart. I will never forget this day.”
The initiative brought smiles, hope, and a renewed sense of belonging to the community, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of its residents.
The outreach, driven by CitOut’s unwavering commitment to rural transformation, featured impactful activities tailored to address the unique needs of the community.
At the heart of this initiative was the vision of Governor Pastor Umo Eno, whose administration’s ARISE Agenda continues to inspire compassion and inclusivity across Akwa Ibom State.
Addressing the villagers, the Director-General of Citizens Outreach Nigeria, Mr. Thomas Etuk, said the event uplifted, inspired, and filled the villagers with hope for brighter days ahead.
He reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to driving meaningful change in rural communities.
Etuk used the opportunity to thank Governor Pastor Umo Eno for creating the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and appointing Princess Emem Ibanga as its dynamic Commissioner, whose leadership has been pivotal in aligning government efforts with community needs.
Mr. Etuk also congratulated Mr. Aniekpeno Mkpanang on his inauguration as the 6th International President of Ati Annang, expressing confidence in his ability to lead with innovation and purpose.
Responding to the event in an interview with ConsulTee, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, commended Citizens Outreach Nigeria for complementing the ministry’s efforts to extend joy to underserved communities.
“Citizens Outreach Nigeria embodies the vision of Governor Pastor Umo Eno. Together, we are making happiness and care accessible to those who need it most,” she noted.
ConsulTee further reports that the outreach also received accolades from the International President of Ati Annang, Mr. Aniekpeno Mkpanang, who lauded the volunteers for their selfless service. He described their dedication as a vital contribution to fostering unity and improving lives.
