…Ekong Sampson Chairs Planning C’mttee, as club continues to receive plaudits
… A/Ibom now leading in reading culture – Sampson.
By Samuel Udoma
Uyo Book Club has been announced as the host of the first ever National Conference of Book Clubs in Nigeria billed to hold sometime in September, 2021.
The cheering news was relayed by the founder of the book club, Dr Udeme Nana earlier today during the March Reading Session of the literary community held at the CityView Hall, Watbridge Hotels, Uyo.
Delivering the heartwarming news, Dr Nana informed that the decision to give the Uyo based club the hosting for the all important inaugural conference was unanimously agreed at the meeting of Book Club Coordinators in the country, where Uyo Book Club was given high ratings and considered one of the ‘very best’ in the entire country.
According to the National Book Clubs eggheads, Uyo Book Club has over the years shown ‘excellent example and commitment to the development of reading and literacy in the country’ and according to them ‘the efficiency and consistency of the club has influenced the springing up of several other book clubs all over tge country’.
Meanwhile, respected scholar, lawyer and politician of repute, Rt Hon.(Dr.) Ekong Sampson has been subsequently announced as the Central Planning Committee Chairman of the Nigerian Book Clubs first ever conference.
Dr Sampson, himself, an author of several influential books will bring his midas touch to bear in coordinating the literary conference which will attract major literary personalities both national and international to Uyo.
Reacting to his announcement in a related development, Dr Sampson, who doubles as patron of the club, expressed delight at the giant strides recorded by the club so far, declaring that Akwa Ibom was now leading in the propagation of reading culture, adding that the benefits of such feats will be enormous and positively manifold in the coming years.
Dr Sampson particularly thanked the State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel for his sincere interest in education applauding that the State Chief Executive for laying a solid educational foundation for the state.
Dr Sampson equally extended his appreciation to the State Deputy Governor, Mr Moses Ekpo, who has remained very committed to the club, the founder of the club, Dr Udeme Nana and all other major backers of the club including Ray Ekpu, Dr. Martin Akpan, Prof. Joe Ushie, and many others.
The high powered committee also have as members; Dr Udeme Nana(club founder), Dr Martin Akpan, Iniobong Leroi Umoh , Udeme Okono, Samuel Udoma with NseAbasi Valentine as Secretary.
