Ritman University Management Pays Condolence Visit to Founder, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, FNSE
The Management Team of Ritman University, Ikot Ekpene, has paid a heartfelt condolence visit to the Founder and Visitor, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, FNSE, following the passing of his wife, Dr. Mrs. Grace Emmanuel Essien, whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for the Ritman Group of Schools.
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The Management Team of Ritman University, Ikot Ekpene, has paid a heartfelt condolence visit to the Founder and Visitor, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, FNSE, following the passing of his wife, Dr. Mrs. Grace Emmanuel Essien, whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for the Ritman Group of Schools.
The solemn visit highlighted the University’s deep respect for the late matriarch and her enduring legacy in education. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Akan B. Williams, delivered opening remarks, conveying the Management’s sympathies and reflecting on her life and impact. Drawing from Isaiah 41:10, he encouraged the family to find strength in God’s promises, reminding them that “God remains our refuge and promises to uphold us through every storm.”
A prayer session was led by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Essien D. Udosen, seeking comfort, unity, and divine fortitude for the bereaved family. Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien expressed gratitude for the support, describing his late wife as a transformative figure whose love, wisdom, and vision positively affected countless lives. He noted that she would have celebrated her 68th birthday in December 2025.
The condolence visit included notable personalities and University stakeholders, such as Senator Effiong Bob, former Chairman of the Board of Trustees; Prof. Akan B. Williams, Vice-Chancellor; Prof. Essien D. Udosen, Deputy Vice-Chancellor; Deaconess Faith E. Emmanuel, Registrar; Dr. Joseph U. Igligli, University Librarian; Mr. Uduak Ekanem, Bursar; Mrs. Rita Umoh, Dean of Students’ Affairs and Co-founder; Prof. Godwin J. Esenowo, Chairman, Committee of Deans; Mr. Godswill Ibok Essien, elder brother to the Founder; and Hon. Jerry Otu, Member, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, among others. Family members, friends, and well-wishers were also in attendance.
The visit concluded with words of hope and encouragement, reaffirming the University community’s support for the family during this period of mourning.
Dr. Mrs. Grace E. Essien is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, and other relatives.
