NEWS RELEASE
Uyo, August 11, 2025
AKSG Disowns Viral “AI Phone” Video, Calls for Responsible Sharing
The Akwa Ibom State Government has issued a firm clarification on the recent online circulation of a video claiming to showcase a locally developed “AI phone” by a young woman in the state. After a thorough review, officials have confirmed that the video is misleading and the product does not exist.
This video first gained attention during the 2023 Akwa Ibom Tech Week, sparking excitement nationwide and beyond. However, a government investigation led by the then Senior Special Assistant on ICT and Digital Services, now Honourable Commissioner for Science and Digital Economy, Dr. Frank Ekpeyong, found the phone to be a conceptual idea rather than a functional device.
“The so-called ‘AI phone’ featured in the video was never operational,” Dr. Ekpeyong explained. “What was presented was an idea, enhanced with special effects such as holographic projections and robotic voice responses to illustrate a futuristic concept. Unfortunately, the absence of disclaimers led to widespread misunderstanding.”
With the video resurfacing, the Government revisited the claims and reaffirmed that no actual device exists and the visuals are purely illustrative. Dr. Ekpeyong emphasized, “We urge the public to verify information from credible sources before sharing, to avoid the spread of false or misleading content that can harm innovation ecosystems.”
Governor His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno Ph.D. has a strong track record of fostering innovation and supporting youth talent in Akwa Ibom. The Government continues to invest in initiatives under the ARISE Agenda designed to empower young entrepreneurs and bolster technology development across the state.
As Dr. Ekpeyong concluded, “While this video was fictitious, it has sparked valuable conversations about the need for real technological innovation in our state. We remain committed to creating an environment where such creativity can thrive genuinely and responsibly.”
Credit:
Ministry of Information
Akwa Ibom State
