Former Minister Umana Umana honoured at CITN Uyo dinner

The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) Uyo and District Society hosted its inaugural Dinner and Award Night in grand style, honouring outstanding contributions to the tax profession and celebrating the achievements of its distinguished members.

The event, held at Amunice Events Centre in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, featured a gathering of professionals, dignitaries, and members of the institute.

Among the honorees was Obong Umana Okon Umana, CON, FCTI, a former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, who received a Distinguished Service Award for his exemplary contributions to the institute and the field of taxation.

Umana, who is a fellow of CITN, was welcomed to the stage with a standing ovation as attendees recognized his impactful career and dedication to excellence.

An abridged profile of the former minister highlighted his steady rise to prominence, underscoring his diligence, hard work, and goal-oriented approach throughout his career.

Speaking during the event, CITN Uyo Chairman Elder Godwin Owonam described the ceremony as a celebration of growth, excellence, and collective achievement. He commended Umana’s remarkable contributions to the institute and noted his role as a source of inspiration to others.

“I want to specifically congratulate Mr. Umana Okon Umana, CON, FCTI, one of our distinguished award recipients.

“Your recognition tonight is well-deserved, and your excellence embodies the very essence of what we stand for as a professional body,” Elder Owonam said.

In his acceptance speech, Umana expressed gratitude for the honour and pledged to uphold the highest ethical standards of the institute.

He praised CITN Uyo and District Society for organizing its first annual dinner and encouraged Nigerians to embrace tax payment as a civic responsibility.

“The CITN Uyo and District Society is a family I am proud to be part of. This recognition inspires me to continue contributing to the profession and serving our state and nation,” Umana said.

The event also featured remarks by the chairman of the occasion, Sir Hillary Isobara, a former Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary in Akwa Ibom State.

He applauded the camaraderie and teamwork among CITN Uyo members and emphasized the critical role of tax professionals in building a strong economic foundation for the state.

The evening was a vibrant celebration of excellence, unity, and professional accomplishments, setting the stage for future milestones in the tax profession in Akwa Ibom State.