Ukap’isua: Emem Akpabio, Enobong Uwah, Edmond Uffang, OBA, Eunice Thomas emerge Band Leaders
By Udeme Inyang
The much anticipated Ukapisua Fiesta billed to hold this yuletide period has taken a new dimension with frontline public figures emerging as Band Leaders of the Carnival groups expected to set Uyo alight in a major street party/carnival tagged Street Groove.
According to a press statement signed by Victor Antai, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism and made available to NEWS LINK, Ukap’isua will commence with the opening of the festival village, located at the auspicious Ibom Unity Park, Udoudoma Avenue, Uyo.
According to Antai, the festival village will host relaxation spots, shopping stalls and other recreational facilities while the main events in Ukap’isua will hold on 26th and 27th December, 2017.
He disclosed that on the 26th of December, a major street party/carnival tagged “Street Groove” will be on display. The star studded event will see five Bands parading along the carnival routes (University of Uyo mini stadium – Ikot ekpene road – Aka road – UdoUdoma Avenue – Unity Park).
NEWS LINK learnt that the bands will be led by frontline public figures like Sir Emem Akpabio(Blue River Band) , UCCDA Boss, Prince Enobong Uwah(Plaza Band) , Senator Bassey Albert(Rolling Hills Band) , Former Commissioner, Mrs Eunice Thomas(Bridge Band) and Governor Udom Emmanuel’s Protocol Chief, Mr Edmond Uffang(Beach Town Band).
According to the Culture and Tourism Commissioner, the bands are named after tourist attractions and historical features in Akwa Ibom state. He said the bands will further expound on the significance of their respective tourism features in their costumes, presentation and parade, thereby helping to market the tourist potentials of the state.
The general public is encouraged to be part of the bands by registering online at www.ukapisua.com or by picking up offline registration forms at all tertiary institutions in the state, local government headquarters, as well as designated eateries and the state Ministry of Culture and Tourism Headquarters, Idongesit Nkanga Secretariat Complex, Uyo.
Antai also disclosed that the end of the road event for Ukap’isua this year will be the Mega Beach Fiesta. Holding at the longest beach line in West Africa, the mega beach fiesta will feature beach soccer, volleyball, basketball and other interesting games.
