The Ibibio people place great importance on the "Ekpe" leopard symbol, which represents:

- Strength and agility
- Courage and bravery
- Royalty and power
- Fertility and prosperity
- Spiritual growth and transformation

The leopard is a revered animal in Ibibio culture, associated with the Ekpe secret society and appearing in various art forms, such as masks, carvings, and textiles.