It was yet another day of honour for Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State as he bagged the highest recognition at the 2012 Nollywood Outstanding Personality Award (NOPA) held Sunday night, Nov. 25, in Ikeja, Lagos.

Akpabio took home the Grand Patron of Art award at the impressive ceremony held at Our Place event centre and organised by the Association of Movie Journalists of Nigeria (AMJ) in collaboration with Stanword Media Group, Lagos.

The event was graced by several dignitaries, among them immediate past Minister of Information and Communications, Prof. Dora Akunyili, who played the role of Mother of the Day; Igwe Hyacinth Ohazulike, Eze Ndigbo Lagos, the Royal Father of the Day; and Lagos businessman, Chief Edwin Igbokwe, husband of late Lady of Songs, Chief (Mrs.) Christy Essien-Igbokwe.

Handing over the award to the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Aniekan Umanah, who represented the governor, both Akunyili and Ohazulike praised Akpabio for the great work he is doing in Akwa Ibom State. They urged other state governors to emulate him.

Accepting the award on behalf of his principal, Umanah thanked the organisers and assured that Governor Akpabio would continue to justify the confidence reposed in him.

Among other awardees were Dr. Kingsley Achukwu, Chief (Mrs.) Hajia Remi Dangaji, Udeme Robinson, Solomon Nwoko and Olumide Iyanda. Late Christy Essien-Igbokwe and late Vanguard Group Entertainment Editor, Mr. Ogbonnaya Amadi, received posthumous awards.

The event was hosted by veteran comedian Alam Blo and seasoned actress Benita Nzeribe.

In his welcome address, AMJ President, Mr. Sunny Okim, described NOPA as special since it is awarded by movie journalists.

“We are the critics and as those who report the industry, we are in a better position to give out the awards,” he said.

Okim disclosed that the association is in dire need of a secretariat and appealed for assistance in this regard.

It was night of fun spiced with breath-taking performances by various musicians and dancers.

•Photo: Akwa Ibom State Information Commissioner, Mr. Aniekan Umanah, speaking after receiving the award on behalf of Governor Godswill Akpabio. With him are and Igwe Ohazulike and Prof. Akunyili.

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