Akwa-Cross: Celebrating Cultural Values, Food Fair, and Art Exhibition (PHOTOS)

The Akwa-Cross food festival and gala night took place at Tolarantie, Helsinki, on Saturday, December 13.

The gala event was established to celebrate the culture and tradition of Akwa Ibom and Cross River indigenes in Finland. Although the event was equally attended by personalities from other parts of Nigeria, the event was simply an appreciation of cultural values and an expression of the elements that make these cordial natives unique in their respective approaches to life.

The Akwa-Cross program was attended by various dignitaries from the Nigerian community, such as Dr Kingsley Jideofor Abisi, president of the Association of Nigerians in Finland, Divine Calling, who is also known as Mr Kenny, and he is the Public Relations officer (PRO) of the body. Also, the matriarch of the Nigerian community, Mama Africa, was present at the event.

Celebrating Cultural Values, Food Fair, and Art Exhibition

Before unravelling what happened at the Akwa-Cross event that took place on Saturday, we would have to establish the relationship between Akwa Ibom and Cross River state.

Brief History of Akwa Ibom and Cross Rivers

Audience at the Akwa-Cross program on Saturday

Cross River and Akwa Ibom are neighbouring states in Nigeria's South-South region, with Akwa Ibom historically being carved out of Cross River State in 1987, leading to shared ethnic groups (like the Ibibio) and cultural ties, though they have distinct capitals (Calabar for Cross River, Uyo for Akwa Ibom) and separate political identities, often linked in discussions about resources and regional development.

Awards and Recognition at the 2025 Akwa-Cross Event

Cross-section of 

According to a statement released by the leadership of the Akwa-Cross Nigerian Community Forum (ANCF), the event marked a significant moment of pride for the Nigerian community, as outstanding individuals and community leaders were recognized for their dedication to service, cultural promotion, and humanitarian impact.

The following awards were presented:

Work of art by Prince of Bakassi

Mama Africa – Lifetime Achievement Award 2025, in recognition of decades of service to community development and African heritage.

Archibong Eyo Bakasi– Akwa-Cross Cultural Torch Bearer Award 2025, for exceptional contributions to cultural preservation and promotion.

Divine– People’s Mobilizer Award 2025, for outstanding leadership, community mobilization, and commitment to unity and service.

Exploring the culture and tradition of Akwa Ibom and Cross River natives (Artwork by Prince of Bakassi)

These awards represent not only individual excellence but also the collective efforts of Nigerians in Finland who continue to uphold the values of service, integrity, and community development.