…Gov Eno, Archbishop Ikon, others billed to attend
By Ime Silas
First Love Foundation, FLO, one of Akwa Ibom’s leading faith-based non-governmental organisations, rounded off media engagements ahead of the grand finale of its 23rd Transformational Conference on Thursday, September 10, 2026, with a charge to citizens to look beyond politics and prepare for “the ultimate election.”
The media interaction, held at the Foundation’s Secretariat in Uyo, brought together top journalists and broadcasters in the state for a robust conversation with the guest discussant, His Grace, Archbishop Idem Ikon. The dialogue centered on this year’s conference theme: “The Ultimate Election.”
The panel featured some of the state’s most respected media voices, including ace broadcaster and award-winning journalist Mr. Emmanuel Ufon, who is also Executive Producer of Cradle Television on NTA and Publisher of The Cradle Newspaper, Mr. Etop Nathaniel; Publisher of Business Crime Watch, Radio Princess; Dara Udoma and Mr. Gideon Ekere; Publisher of Post Newspaper, among others.
In his welcome remarks, the President of First Love Foundation, Hon. Justice Charles Ikpe, said the theme was deliberately chosen to mirror the tension, expectations and heightened emotions that trail election seasons in Nigeria.
“Every four years, we talk about elections, campaigns, votes and winners,” Justice Ikpe said. “But as a faith organisation, we are reminded that there is an election that is final, where no campaign money, no godfather and no political structure can influence the outcome. That is God’s judgment. This conference is calling people back to put God’s will above personal ambition and political interest.”
According to him, the 23rd edition was designed not just as a religious gathering, but as a civic and spiritual reset for Akwa Ibom people, urging them to live with eternity in view while still participating responsibly in governance.
The media parley set the tone for the grand finale scheduled to hold later today at the FLO conference grounds in Uyo. The Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, is expected as Special Guest of Honour.
Governor Eno is no stranger to the FLO platform. He participated actively in previous editions of the Transformational Conference long before his emergence as governor, and organisers say his presence underscores the bridge between faith, leadership and public service.
A cross-section of dignitaries, religious leaders, political stakeholders, professionals, and members of the public are expected to grace the event.
Highlighting the day’s programme, organisers announced a live convocation session with Pastor Imaikop Udosen slated for 9:30 a.m., alongside praise, testimonies, and ministration.
Archbishop Idem Ikon, while responding to questions from journalists, said “The Ultimate Election” is a reminder that leadership begins with character and accountability before God. He urged media practitioners to use their platforms to promote values, truth and nation-building, especially in a season when public discourse is often dominated by partisanship.
Since its inception, the FLO Transformational Conference has grown into one of the largest annual faith gatherings in the South-South, drawing participants across denominations and professions. This year’s finale is expected to close with prayers for the state, the nation, and families.
With the 2027 general elections already shaping political conversations nationwide, FLO says the message of today’s conference is timely: that while ballots will decide who governs, character and faith will determine legacy.
