The idea that led to today’s Ibom Minerals, Energy, and Maritime Professionals Association (IMEMPA) was conceived by Dr. David Udoma-Michaels due to observed low participation of Akwa Ibom people in the Oil and Gas business in Nigeria. Supported by late Dr. Ubong King, the duo in collaboration with the Charismatic Renewal Ministries, Uyo organized a workshop at Akwa Ibom State Secretariat to sensitize Akwa Ibom youths on investment opportunities in the oil and gas industry in 2016 which attracted over 500 people in attendance.
The idea was revisited with greater and sustained momentum on July 30, 2023, when a team of four patriotic Akwa Ibom indigenes—Engr. A. U. Akpan, Dr. David Udoma-Michaels, Charles Ekanem — met virtually to discuss projects that could propel the state’s progress in similar sector. As agreed by the team, Mr. Charles Ekanem was directed to create a platform which later brought in more energetic, visionary and like-minded professionals including Engr Victor Udom who has uncommonly added great strength and vigor that galvanized us to where we are now.
As we progressed on the journey of transforming Akwa Ibom and ensure effective utilization of myriad of our natural resources, a broadened scope covering oil & gas, maritime, solid minerals and renewable energy sectors called IMEMPA (Ibom Minerals, Energy and Maritime Professional Association) was formed and registered with Corporate Affairs Commission, Nigeria in 2025.
A nine (9) Pioneer members Board of Trustees comprising eminent Akwa Ibomites, chaired by Mr. Sam Thomas Ekpenyong, with Engr Anthony U. Akpan as Deputy Chairman and Engr Victor Udom as BOT Secretary was constituted to guide the association.
Today, IMEMPA boasts a membership strength of about 500 professionals across Akwa Ibom State, drawn from various fields in the energy, maritime, solid mineral and renewable energy sectors.
IMEMPA aims to drive industrial revolution and significant economic transformation in Akwa Ibom State and the region. The association seeks to harness the collective expertise of its members to propel progress and development in the state.
To harness the collective expertise of its members to propel progress and development in Akwa Ibom State and the region.
