‘You’re A Man Of Integrity’
Governor Lauds Okon Okon At 60th Birthday Thanksgiving
By Ima Nkanta
It was more than a birthday thanksgiving service for Sir Okon Okon, the Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS) and wife, Bar Mrs. Uwem Okon who both turned 60 and 55 respectively and celebrated with a large audience at The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Dominion Mega Parish, Uyo.
In an atmosphere filled with jubilant praise, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno walked in, accompanied by members of the State Executive Council. His mission was not just to attend a birthday of a top executive who is serving in a strategic economic mainstay of the State, the Akwa Ibom Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS) but a dependable partner in the economic development trajectory of the people of Akwa Ibom. Far beyond is the essence of rewarding relationship between the two over the years.
In his eulogy, Governor said: “This evening, we are here to celebrate a man of honour, a man of respect, a man with distinguished service and distinguished career, a man who is committed to what he does and of course with his dear wife, we are here to celebrate them. I have known Mr. Okon Okon, not today, since the banking days. As a matter of fact, he was the one managing my account In those days, and we have come a long way.
The Yorubas will say, “Human being is like water” and you need to be careful how you treat people when you meet them; you need to know that people move, so human beings move. So, we have come a long way, there are people that, just like you can’t tell my story to them, you can’t tell me about them, I already know them and when destiny brings us together, we thank God.
I didn’t make him the chairman of Internal Revenue Service, I met him there and he made my job very easy, so he should just continue because he is a straight forward man. I am sure, if I made him the chairman, It would be like, “Oh, he made his friend the chairman!” But what I did not start, why do I have to destroy it?
He is delivering on his mandates, he is bringing in Internally generated revenue, and so if you are looking to that office very soon, please wait a little longer. As long as our targets are met, what else do I want? I need a man who gives me money to do the projects that we are doing and Mr. Okon Okon is good, a very simple man and I like working with such men.”
“So, I would like to thank you, we are here to celebrate you on behalf of the Government and people of Akwa Ibom State, all of your friends are here, all of these quality people cannot be travelling from different destinations, could not have been here, if you were not a good man. These are testimonies that you are a good man. And we celebrate you and your dear wife. Happy birthday to both of you.”
The Governor who was elated, noted further that Sir Okon Okon’s sterling leadership at the revenue agency aligns perfectly with the goals of the Arise Agenda, which emphasizes good governance, accountability, and sustainable development.”
“Today, we are not just celebrating a birthday; we are celebrating a life of purposeful leadership, a life that has remained committed to the ideals of integrity and service,” Governor Eno said.
He urged all public servants to emulate Sir Okon’s dedication, stressing that character and competence remain key drivers for achieving the administration’s vision of a prosperous Akwa Ibom.
In his remarks, Sir Okon Okon expressed deep gratitude to God for His faithfulness over his life and family. He also thanked Governor Umo Eno for the unwavering support and trust reposed in him, reaffirming his commitment to continue delivering service at the highest standards of integrity and excellence.
The colourful event, attended by family, friends, members of the AKIRS workforce, crème de la crème of the State, and other dignitaries, was marked by joyful worship, heartfelt testimonies, and moving expressions of gratitude for a life lived in service to God and humanity. Also specially honored was his beloved wife, Barr. Mrs. Uwem Okon, who celebrated her 55th birthday and who has remained a pillar of support and strength through the years.
