Outgoing Coordinator of the Guinness World Record-breaking Akwa Ibom State Christmas Carols Festival, Aniekpeno Mkpanang, has called on the governor of the state, Umo Eno, to sustain the festival, initiated by his predecessors in office.

Mkpanang made the appeal while speaking to South-South PUNCH correspondent on Wednesday, at the thanksgiving service to mark the end of his 15-year stint as Coordinator of the Christmas Carols Festival, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Appreciating God for granting him uncommon knowledge to coordinate the Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival in the last 15 years, Mkpanang acknowledged former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Godswill Akpabio, now Senate President, for entrusting him with the responsibility of putting the event together from the onset. He also eulogised the immediate past governor, Udom Emmanuel, for ensuring the sustainability of the event.

He said, “Governor Emmanuel not only embraced the festival with open arms, but he infused it with an even deeper passion, breathing new life into its essence. His unwavering dedication became the wind beneath our festive wings, propelling the celebration to greater heights.

“Together, these two illustrious leaders in their times and in their own ways, crafted a narrative of unity, cultural pride, and communal joy that resonated within the very soul of Akwa Ibom. Their shared vision, each adding a distinct chapter to the festival’s success story, transformed the Akwa Ibom Christmas Carols Festival into a symbol of resilience, continuity, and enduring festive bliss.”