By Newspot Nigeria News Desk
Akwa Ibom’s creative industry is gearing up for an exciting new chapter with the official launch of the ARISE Creative Champions 1.0 Talent Hunt, an initiative designed to spotlight raw talent while empowering young creatives across the state.
The project, unveiled in Uyo by the Special Assistant to Governor Umo Eno on Creative Talent Development, Mr. Emmanuel Owuala (Emma Solution), comes with a ₦3 million star prize for the winner, ₦2 million for second place, and ₦1 million for third.
With six competitive categories — Acting, Ballad, Content Creation, Dance, Fine Arts, and Broadcast/Spoken Words — the program will hold auditions across the three senatorial districts of Akwa Ibom. From these, 18 finalists will emerge (three per category per district) to compete at the grand finale in December.
Owuala noted that participation is free but limited to members of the Ibom Entertainment Forum (IEF), which now operates chapters across the state. He assured that even non-finalists will not be left behind, as mentorship programs and creative training academies will ensure wider impact beyond the competition. Winners will also serve as ambassadors of the Akwa Ibom brand, gaining opportunities to collaborate with Nollywood actors, top creators, and industry stakeholders.
The unveiling event drew influential figures including Rev. Osondu Ahirika, Ph.D. (SSA to the Governor on Ethical Orientation), Mr. David Sergeant (Utang Akwa Ibom, SSA on Entertainment Industry), and award-winning director Mr. Akan Ekpenyong.
In his goodwill message, Rev. Ahirika charged contestants to combine talent with discipline, godly values, and a commitment to staying clear of substance abuse and unethical practices that derail careers. He praised Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda for creating safe, productive spaces that divert youths from crime and social vices.
With millions in prize money, mentorship opportunities, and the promise of national exposure, ARISE Creative Champions 1.0 is set to redefine Akwa Ibom’s entertainment landscape.
— Newspot Nigeria
