•as Akpabio donates in support of project
The long-anticipated vision of establishing a central edifice for Oro people in Uyo took a significant step forward on Monday, April 6, 2026, as the foundation for the proposed Oro House was officially laid in a ceremony marked by strong leadership presence and widespread community support.
Performing the groundbreaking event, the Executive Director of Projects at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Sir Victor Antai, who served as the project facilitator, commended the leadership of Oron Union, Uyo Branch, and other stakeholders for what he described as a bold and strategic initiative aimed at strengthening the identity, unity, and representation of Oro people in the state capital.
He said the project reflected foresight and collective resolve, urging all stakeholders to remain committed to its successful execution.
He further charged members of the project committee to uphold diligence, transparency, and accountability throughout the construction process, warning that any form of misconduct or lack of integrity could undermine the progress of Oro Nation.
Victor Antai also announced a donation from the President of the Senate, Godswill Obot Akpabio, whom he said was identifying with Oron people for their noble idea in establishing a unique presence of unity and progress in the state capital.
Antai called on all sons and daughters of Oro Nation, both within Nigeria to rally support for the initiative, reaffirming his personal commitment to ensuring the successful completion of the project.
In his goodwill message, the Board of Trustees Chairman of Oron Union, Sir Edet Amana, lauded Antai’s leadership and dedication in driving the vision forward.
Chief Amana jointly performed the formal foundation-laying ceremony with Sir Victor Antai, calling on the people to remain united and supportive until the project is completed.
The event drew a large gathering of prominent figures from Oro Nation, including President-General emeritus of Oron Union, Sir Asuquo Inuikim; current President-General, Sir Essang Nsa Bassey; Elder Eddy Ukosin, President of Oron Union Uyo Branch; Rt. Rev. Inyang Okon Effiong, Bishop Prince Asukwo Antai, Hon. Chris Abasieyo, Asuquo Anwana, Chief Ita Ntekim, Prof. Inyang Atting, Prince Asuquo Esifa, among others.
Also present were several other distinguished personalities, including Chief Nseobong Essang, Chief B.I.E. Isong, and Barrister Ita Okpoyo, alongside numerous Oro sons and daughters who turned out in large numbers to witness the historic occasion.
Speaking to WatchmanPost on the sideline of the ceremony, Sir Asuquo Inuikim said the Oro House project is widely seen as a cornerstone for cultural identity and a hub for communal engagement, expected to foster stronger ties and collective advancement for generations to come.
