Oron Union Hits 100 Years, Harps On Unity, Sustainable Devt

The Oron Union (OU), one of Nigeria’s oldest ethnic-based organisations in Akwa Ibom State, has begun a month-long celebration of its centenary, marking 100 years of fostering unity, cultural identity, and socio-political progress in the country.

The centennial anniversary, themed; “Celebrating our Heritage; Reshaping our future”, which had been flagged -off, would run through to May 23, 2025.

President general of the OU, Sir Essang Nsa Bassey, at a press conference in Oron local government area, said the event would feature a rich lineup of cultural, historical, educational, and sporting events designed to highlight the union’s contributions to community development and national heritage.

Founded in 1925, the Oron Union represents the collective identity of the Oro ethnic group, which spans five local government areas in Akwa Ibom State, Oron, Mbo, Okobo, Urue Offong/Oruko, and Udung Uko.

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Recalling the milestone, Sir Bassey, described the centenary as a landmark moment in the history of the Oro people.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. It reflects not just our past achievements, but also our resolve to shape the future of our people through unity and vision,” he said.

The celebration was formally launched with the lighting of the Oron Union Centennial Torch, which was ceremonially taken through all the five LGAs before arriving at the Oro Civic Centre in Oron, with ritual rites of cultural performances, and community speeches at every stop.

The traditional leaders have described the event as a moment of pride. His Royal Majesty Obong Ita Edet Okokon, Paramount Ruler of Okobo LGA, commended the organisers for promoting peace and development, explaining that ,“this anniversary proves that the Oro people remain united, and all of us must contribute positively, wherever we are.”

Chairman of the Centennial Planning Committee, Crown Prince Chris Abasieyo, announced that the programme includes a fishing regatta, traditional wrestling contests, clan cultural days, school competitions, a centennial colloquium, and book launches. He added that the Oro Union’s historic scholarship programme, which began in 1942, laid the foundation for many prominent Oro families today.