By Solomon OKPO | 16, 2025
UYO, Edwin Chester Nkanta, a native of Ikot Abasi Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State and a standout Statistics student at the University of Calabar, is drawing national attention as a top contender for the Mr. & Miss Nigeria International 2025 crown.
Nkanta, who is managed by The Aegis Agency under Wane Callis Global, is being hailed not only for his charisma but for his purpose-driven approach to pageantry. The prestigious competition is set to culminate on October 19, 2025, at Ibom Hall, Uyo, and Nkanta is aiming to make history as the first Akwa Ibom indigene to win the coveted title in its 14-year history.
During the October General Meeting of the Association of Nigerian Publishers of Akwa Ibom (ANPA), held at Ceedapeg Hotels and Suites, the agency’s Principal Manager, Mr. Watson Uzochukwu, made a strong case for community and media backing. He described Nkanta as “intelligent, driven, and purpose-oriented,” stating that the contestant reflects the essence of Nigeria’s youth potential.
“Edwin embodies the true spirit of today’s Nigerian youth, a rare fusion of intellect, cultural pride, and discipline. We are optimistic he will bring the trophy home,” Uzochukwu said.
Nkanta’s campaign goes far beyond the typical pageant playbook. A passionate advocate for STEM education and cultural awareness, he aims to use the Mr. Nigeria International platform to encourage Nigerian youths, particularly from underrepresented communities to embrace science, technology, and mathematics as vehicles for empowerment and national development.
“For Chester, pageantry is not just about physical appeal,” Uzochukwu added. “It’s a stage for transformation, intellectual growth, and showcasing identity with pride.”
The Aegis Agency has called on ANPA for broader media support across its platforms and urged Akwa Ibomites both at home and abroad to vote online through the official pageant website. The agency believes that with strong grassroots support, Nkanta stands a strong chance of winning.
ANPA President-General, Pastor Osuini-Abasi Alfred, praised Nkanta’s boldness and vision, pledging the association’s support in promoting his candidacy. He noted that Nkanta’s participation shines a spotlight on Akwa Ibom’s cultural and intellectual potential.
Meanwhile, the ANPA General Meeting also featured internal proceedings, including the submission and adoption of reports from the 2025 ANPA Week Planning Committee and the Constitution Review Committee, marking a step forward in the association’s ongoing development agenda.
As the countdown to the grand finale begins, all eyes remain on Nkanta an ambassador of youth leadership, culture, and academic excellence who seeks to turn a national stage into a platform for transformation.
