The Akwa Ibom Heritage Queen Pageant has honoured the Paramount Ruler of Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty, Edidem Clement Francis Ekpenyong III, with an Award of Excellence, recognising his leadership, commitment to traditional institutions and contributions to society.

The award was presented during the second edition of the Akwa Ibom Heritage Queen Pageant 2026/2027, organised under the PEG Africa platform in Uyo.

The recognition formed part of a memorable evening that brought together traditional leaders, community stakeholders, distinguished personalities and young women representing the rich cultural heritage of Akwa Ibom State.

Recognising a Distinguished Traditional Leader

HRM Edidem Clement Francis Ekpenyong III is the Paramount Ruler of Ibesikpo Asutan LGA. Published accounts record that he emerged Paramount Ruler in August 2017 and received his staff of office from the Akwa Ibom State Government on September 25, 2017. His formal coronation followed on November 9, 2019.

His leadership has extended beyond ceremonial traditional responsibilities to advocacy for peace, cultural preservation, community cohesion and development.

Over the years, the royal father has received delegations and participated in discussions concerning matters affecting Akwa Ibom communities. In 2021, for example, he publicly advocated greater recognition for the late Obong Effiong Okon Eyo, popularly known as “Eyo Uyo” for his historical contribution to the creation of Akwa Ibom State.

More recently, he has continued to receive community and humanitarian organisations at his palace, underscoring the continuing role of the traditional institution in community engagement.

An Award Celebrating Leadership and Service

Presenting the Award of Excellence during the Akwa Ibom Heritage Queen Pageant provided PEG Africa with an opportunity to recognise a traditional leader whose position represents the preservation of culture and the responsibility of leadership.

The recognition also reflects an important aspect of the Heritage Queen vision: celebrating individuals whose leadership and service contribute to stronger communities and the preservation of Akwa Ibom's heritage.

The moment was particularly symbolic within an event dedicated to culture and heritage. It connected an established traditional institution with a platform seeking to inspire a younger generation to appreciate their identity while developing the leadership qualities required to serve society.

Traditional Institutions and the Next Generation

Traditional rulers remain important custodians of the history, customs and cultural identity of their communities.

For the Akwa Ibom Heritage Queen Pageant, maintaining a meaningful relationship with traditional institutions is therefore an important part of its cultural mission.

HRM Edidem Clement Francis Ekpenyong III has himself spoken publicly about the responsibility attached to the traditional stool. An account of his coronation records his commitment to protecting the cultural, political and traditional heritage of his people while liaising with government in their interest.

That philosophy resonates with the broader ideals promoted through the Heritage Queen platform, leadership, cultural consciousness, service, and community development.

PEG Africa Celebrates Excellence

Through initiatives such as the Akwa Ibom Heritage Queen Pageant, PEG Africa continues to create a meeting point between cultural heritage, youth development, empowerment, mentorship, entrepreneurship and humanitarian service.

The presentation of Awards of Excellence during the pageant recognises that society's progress depends not only on emerging leaders but also on acknowledging those who have contributed through years of leadership and service.

The Award of Excellence presented to HRM Edidem Clement Francis Ekpenyong III therefore celebrates both the individual and the traditional institution he represents.

A Memorable Moment at the Heritage Queen Pageant

The presentation added another memorable moment to the second edition of the Akwa Ibom Heritage Queen Pageant, which culminated in the emergence of Queen Majesty Ottong as Akwa Ibom Heritage Queen 2026/2027.

As PEG Africa continues to expand the Heritage Queen platform, its message remains centred on encouraging young people to embrace their culture while recognising that a crown, title or position of authority achieves its greatest value when it is used in service to others.

PEG Africa and the Akwa Ibom Heritage Queen Pageant congratulate His Royal Majesty, Edidem Clement Francis Ekpenyong III, Paramount Ruler of Ibesikpo Asutan LGA, on receiving the Award of Excellence.