May 07, (THEWILL) – A foremost socio-cultural organisation in Nigeria, the Oron Union, has rolled out drums to celebrate 100 Years of Unity and Cultural Renaissance.
Oron Union is one of Nigeria’s foremost ethnic nationalities and says it is beginning a month-long celebration of the centenary of fostering unity, cultural identity, and socio-political progress for the Oro Nation.
With the theme “Unity Is Treasure”, the event, flagged off on April 26, 2025, will run through May 23, 2025, and will feature a lineup of rich historical, educational, and sporting events designed to highlight the union’s contributions to community development and cultural heritage.
THEWILL reports that the celebration was formally launched with the lighting of the Centennial Torch, which was taken through the five LGAs, before arriving at the Oro Civic Centre in Oron, with brief cultural rites performed at each stop.
Speaking during the reception at the Civic Centre, President General of Oron Union, Sir Essang Bassey, described the event as a landmark celebration 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.
According to him, the Union, which was founded in 1925, represents the collective identity of the Oro ethnic group, which spans five local government areas in Akwa Ibom State, including Oron, Mbo, Okobo, Urue Offong/Oruko, and Udung Uko.
His Royal Majesty, Obong Ita Edet Okokon, Paramount Ruler of Okobo LGA, commended the organisers for promoting peace and development, saying that the anniversary is proof that the Oro people remain united.
He called for positive contributions to move the union on wherever the Oros are.
The chairman of the Centennial Planning Committee, Prince Chris Abasieyo, noted that the Oro Union’s historic scholarship programme, which began in 1942, laid the foundation for many prominent Oro families.
He announced the programme lined up for the one-month event to include a fishing regatta, traditional wrestling contests, clan cultural days, school competitions, a centennial colloquium and a book launch.
“We are a coastal people born of the sea. This celebration brings together fisherfolk, performers, scholars, and all sons and daughters of Oro”, Abasieyo said.
He, however, emphasised the need for reconciliation, urging all Oro indigenes to set aside differences and recommit to the values of peaceful coexistence, leadership, and service.
