The leadership of Abasi People Foundation (APF) recently paid a courtesy visit to Sir Essang Nsa Bassey, KJW, President General of the Oron Union (OU). The visit reaffirmed APF commitment to unity, cultural identity, and strategic collaboration among Ndito Abasi.
Speaking during the visit, APF’s Chairman Dr. Victor Udo, FNSE explained the Foundationโs mission to restore dignity and cohesion among Abasi People – Ibibio, Annang, Efik, Oro, Ekid, Ekoi and Obolo.
Dr. Udo highlighted the spiritual and cultural symbolism of the name “Abasi”โ our people word for Godโas a unifying force that binds the people with shared history, language, and belief systems. He recalled that early missionaries selected Efik version of our language to translate the Bible and Hymn book; that we all use till today as a unifying identify. Iko Efik helps to foster unity among Ndito Abasi.
“In order to ensure self-emancipation from both internal and external marginalization and exploitation for sustainable development, we need to unify Abasi People. Unity will help us to impact public policy at the national level and attract federal projects to our communities.
The visit concluded with an appeal for blessings and institutional collaboration. APF expressed its desire for mutual support among Abasi People authorities and organizations to enhance our shared identity and enhance our common wealth.
In his response, Sir Essang Nsa Bassey warmly welcomed the delegation and lauded APFโs mission as noble and timely. He praised their commitment to cultural renaissance and unity, affirming the historical and spiritual significance of our shared identity.
โAbasi is not just a nameโit is a sacred heritage,โ he remarked. โAnything named after God carries enduring value and often outlives its founders.โ He noted that internal divisions had historically undermined Abasi People’s collective progress, referencing the delay of the Ibaka deep seaport as a painful consequence of disunity. โHad we embraced our shared identity sooner, perhaps the Ibaka seaport would be completed and functioning in its rightful place.โ
While acknowledging the challenges posed by the political and geographical fragmentation of Abasi People across Akwa Ibom and Cross River States, the President-General pledged his support to APFโs efforts and offered his blessings for their mission.
Members of the APF delegation included Engr. Daniel Udofia, Elder Archibong Michael Archibong, Hon. Imo Daniel Essien, Afianwe Victor Akai, Favour Uweh andย Victorย Onowo.
By Favour Onobo
