Akwa Ibom State Association of Nigeria, USA Inc.

The association was founded in 1967 during the Nigerian Civil War under the name, Association of Students of South Eastern State of Nigeria in the Americas. The purpose was to organize its people and fight for the cause of preserving their identity as a people in Nigeria after the creation of the state, long yearned for. This was no small contribution from students who were not only thousands of miles away from the war-torn homeland but were also self-supported.

Early name changes

When Cross River State was created in 1976, the association changed its name to The Association of Students of Cross River State of Nigeria in the Americas. With the creation of Akwa Ibom State 20 years later, the name changed to Association of Students and Citizens of Akwa Ibom State in the Americas. The inclusion of citizens in the name was to make it feasible – for those who have completed their studies and are no longer students, to continue their participation and contribution in the affairs of the association. The name was further changed in 1990 to its present name of Akwa Ibom State Association of Nigeria, USA Inc. The association is incorporated in Washington, D.C.

Founding chapters and activities

Since Akwa Ibomites reside in various cities of the United States, the association is organized in most major cities. The association started initially in New York City, and then in Washington, DC. During the late seventies, the activities of the colloquium included, among other events a soccer match competition between the perennial powers, New York City and Washington, D.C. This match is now played between the eastern and western select teams.

For purposes of coordination, control of activities, and sharing of information between these city organizations and the home country, it became necessary to organize a National Executive Committee consisting of the national president and a cabinet and the different city organizations assumed the status of "Chapters." The national president is the pre-eminent officer and with his/her cabinet is responsible for the day-to-day running of the association and the execution of its overall policies. The national president appoints all members of the National Executive Committee, and starting in 2004 is elected during the AKISAN National Convention to one term of two years. Some chapters appear in diaspora events such as fundraisers, community voluntary efforts, health awareness, and the Nigerian Independence parades.