The University of Uyo and the Planning Committee for the Akwa Ibom 2027 Election Debate organize by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Akwa Ibom State Council, have agreed to work together as partners for the successful hosting of the Debate.
In a strategic partnership meeting between the University and the Debate Planning Committee held at the Vice Chancellor’s office, the two bodies noted the significance and the necessity of the Debate as a credible, non-partisan platform for candidates of various political parties to present their programmes, policies and vision directly to the people of Akwa Ibom State as they prepare to head to the 2027 election polls.
The Chairman of the Debate Planning Committee, Comrade Ndanti Ekuh who led members of the committee to the meeting,said the meeting was to explore partnership towards the successful hosting of the Debate, themed “WHY YOU?”.
Addressing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Christopher Ekong, the Chairman reiterated that with UNIUYO as partners, the debate will have rich intellectual content in addition to strengthening the credibility and impact of the Debate. He noted that the university’s position as a reputable intellectual powerhouse, qualifies the institution as a strategic partner in promoting informed political engagement and contributing meaningfully to discussions about the future of the state.
According to him, “the debate, apart from giving candidates the opportunity to clearly articulate their plans and policy priorities, will enable citizens to critically assess those seeking public office and make informed choices on who to vote and not to vote in the election”.
Responding, the Vice Chancellor of UNIUYO , Prof. Ekong, welcomed the initiative and expressed the university’s willingness to partner the committee to ensure successful planning and hosting of the Debate.
He commended the Comrade Nsibiet John led NUJ for taking a proactive step towards deepening political awareness, public participation and accountability.
He observed that the debates would provide citizens with an opportunity to better understand the candidates, their programmes and their plans for governance, while also creating a basis for holding elected leaders accountable for commitments made to the electorate.
He stressed the importance of strategic planning, effective execution and strategic communication in governance, stressing that beyond implementing projects and programmes, governments must always deliberately communicate their policies, achievements and development agenda to citizens, investors and the international community.
The Vice Chancellor highlighted the need for sustainable infrastructure and effective urban development, including properly constructed and aligned road networks, efficient waste-management systems and well-planned public infrastructure.
According to him, “Akwa Ibom State must not only pursue meaningful development projects but must also effectively market its opportunities, strengths and economic potential to the wider world. The University Community is hopeful that the debate will give the electorate the opportunity to check out for candidates who understand those government responsibilities”
Highpoint of the meeting was the signing of the partnership deal between by the University and the Debate Planning Committee.
Meanwhile, a renowned pan-African Content creator and Social media Influencer, Kevin Chinedu, widely known as “GOVERNOR AMUNIKE” has declared his partnership with the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Akwa Ibom State Council on the forthcoming Akwa Ibom 2027 Election Debate organized by the NUJ .
In a partnership acceptance letter, addressed to the Chairman of the Debate Planning Committee, Comrade Ndanti Ekuh, “Governor Amunike” said the objectives of the Akwa Ibom 2027 Election Debate align with the values and vision that his group represents, particularly the use of media, entertainment and public engagement to encourage accountability and meaningful conversations around leadership.
“I am pleased to formally communicate my acceptance of the partnership invitation in principle. I strongly believe in the importance of creating credible and independent platforms where political candidates can engage directly with the people, present their ideas, defend their policies, and allow voters to make informed decisions,” the letter reads in part.
