Akwa Ibom State is preparing to take center stage in national discourse as it gears up to host the 2025 Nigerian Bar Association Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) Annual Conference, slated for December 1–5 in Uyo.
Governor Umo Eno, in reaffirming his administration’s support for the event, described the forthcoming gathering as a reflection of Akwa Ibom’s rising reputation as a destination for innovation, intellectual exchange, and global-standard development.
The governor made this commitment during a breakfast meeting with the NBA-SPIDEL leadership, led by Chairman Prof. Paul Ananaba (SAN), at the Government House in Uyo. The delegation had visited to brief him on the progress of preparations for the high-profile event.
Expressing gratitude to SPIDEL for selecting Uyo as the host city, Governor Eno assured the association that the state would extend full logistical and infrastructural support to ensure a seamless and memorable conference.
“We are honoured by this choice and ready to give every necessary assistance for the success of the conference,” Eno said. “Our administration is deliberately positioning Akwa Ibom as a beacon for tourism, investment, and intellectual engagement.”
He highlighted the state’s rapid infrastructural development under the ARISE Agenda, noting that projects such as the 5,000-capacity International Convention Centre, the ARISE Resort, and the ongoing upgrades at the Ibom Hotels and Golf Resort are part of a broader plan to make Akwa Ibom Nigeria’s leading venue for global events and business tourism.
“We are building facilities that meet international standards so that Akwa Ibom continues to attract major events and investors,” he added.
Prof. Paul Ananaba commended Governor Eno’s transformative leadership and lauded Akwa Ibom’s impressive growth trajectory, describing it as one of the country’s most dynamic and promising destinations.
“SPIDEL’s choice of Akwa Ibom is deliberate. This state represents progress, hospitality, and vision,” Ananaba noted. “We look forward to showcasing the remarkable achievements here to the rest of Nigeria.”
Uju Agomoh, Chairperson of the Conference Planning Committee, described the upcoming event as more than just a gathering of legal minds—it is, in her words, “a platform for national transformation.”
“This year’s conference will unite reform-driven leaders and advocates committed to advancing governance, accountability, and the rule of law,” she stated.
Former Attorney-General of Akwa Ibom State, Assam Assam (SAN), who chairs the Fundraising and Partnerships Subcommittee, also expressed appreciation to the governor, emphasizing that the conference will spotlight Akwa Ibom’s serene environment, modern infrastructure, and hospitality culture.
Governor Eno was accompanied at the meeting by top government officials including Secretary to the State Government, Prince Uwah; Attorney-General Uko Udom (SAN); Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Frank Archibong; Commissioner for Works, Prof. Eno Ibanga; and Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah.
On the NBA-SPIDEL side were key figures such as Mr. Okey Ohagba (Secretary), Mr. Paul Babatunde Daudu (SAN), Mr. Enome Amatey, Mr. Ejike Ezenwa (SAN), Mr. Godswill Umoh, Mr. Assam Assam Jnr, and Ms. Blessing Udofa-Poromon, the NBA Treasurer.
The 2025 conference promises a dynamic lineup of plenary sessions, policy discussions, interactive workshops, and exhibitions. It aims to deepen conversations around justice-driven development and strengthen the bridge between law, governance, and social progress.
With Akwa Ibom’s hospitality, world-class facilities, and growing reputation for excellence, the state is poised to deliver one of the most remarkable NBA-SPIDEL conferences in recent memory—signaling a new era for both the state and Nigeria’s public interest community.
