The 2008 Annual National Convention planning is over. The planning committee held its last meeting on Sunday, August 3, 2008. Mr. Emmanuel Isong joined the National President in thanking the committee members on their very determined effort to put together a successful convention. Information so far received indicates that the hotel was sold out more than 2 weeks ago. There is influx of Akwa Ibomites from all works of life to the convention venue. A strong delegation from Nigeria led by his Excellency the Governor, Barrister Godswill Akpabio is enroute to the United States to attend the convention. The National President, Hon. Monday R. Affiah will have a presidential briefing on Thursday, August 7, 2008 at the convntion venue to give final instructions to the convention leadership on how and what he expects from them. There is great anticipation that this will be the most star-studded and most attended convention ever, judging from the interest that have so far been shown on the ground. The Governor's Town Hall meeting is slated to take place when final timetable on the schedule is reached which should be before Saturday. A reception for the governor has been finalized. Additionally, expected at the convention is the current WBC world heavyweight boxing champion, Mr. Samuel Peters. A reception in his honor will take place during the convention according to information received from those in the know who asked not to be named because they are not officially authorized to speak on the issue. The Narional President made an appeal recently to those planning to attend the convention to pre-register so that badges can be printed ahead of time for pick up upon arrival. This way, he said would cut down on so many people having to wait in line to get registered on the convention days. President Affiah also revealed that the 72 page program booklet which was shipped to the convention venue will also be posted on the web so that individuals can download and print for their personal use. The President who is excited about the upcoming convention said he gives praises to God for the efforts that the people have been able to put together to pull this event out. Mr. President also said that Mbuk Akwa Ibom magazine publication has been revived and will be released at the convention. He instructed the Editor-in-Chief, Engr. Sebastian C. Ikpe to facilitate its publication on this website for the community to read and download for their own personal use. The National President wishes you and your family a safe trip to and from the convention. He congratulated the Washington, DC chapter members for hosting the this year's convention.