https://www.facebook.com/112895370541551/

SunRise MEDIA, #25, Information Drive, along IBB, Uyo (2025)

Q: What is the address?

#25, Information Drive, Along IBB

08/07/2025

Breaking News!

NYSC Boost: Gov. Eno Approves ₦20,000 Monthly for Akwa Ibom Indigenes Serving Nationwide

By Bush Udombo

Governor Umo Eno has approved an extended allowance for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members who are indigenes of Akwa Ibom State, increasing their monthly pay from the state government to ₦20,000. This new development was one of the highlights of the Akwa Ibom State Executive Council meeting held on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the Government House in Uyo.

The governor made it clear that this support will no longer be limited to only those serving within the state. It will now apply to all Akwa Ibom corps members serving in any part of Nigeria. This decision is part of the administration's broader commitment to youth welfare and is designed to ease the financial burden of young graduates during their service year.

Governor Eno, who presided over the meeting, encouraged council members to remain dedicated to the ARISE Agenda. He emphasized that the government’s vision requires teamwork, commitment, and sincere service to the people.

At the same meeting, the council approved the construction of a 2.15 km dual carriage rigid pavement and the rehabilitation of a 0.8 km flexible pavement at the Itam Industrial Park in Itu Local Government Area. The governor explained that this road infrastructure will help boost business activities in the industrial park and attract more investors to the area.

To further strengthen the state's business interests, a committee was set up to hold discussions with the management of key state investments—especially the Rafia City Hotels (Four Points by Sheraton). The aim is to improve partnerships and explore more efficient ways to manage state-owned assets like the Ibom Hotels and Apartments. The committee is expected to submit its report within 30 days.

In addition, the state government has directed all plot owners in the Ewet Housing Estate who have not developed their lands or have abandoned buildings to begin work within 90 days or face revocation. The Ministry of Housing and APICO have been tasked with enforcing this order to help improve the look and safety of the estate.

Preparations for the upcoming Akwa Ibom Sports Festival were also discussed. The governor directed the planning team to speed up arrangements so that the festival can take place as scheduled. The event is expected to discover and nurture new sports talents among young people in the state.

The council also reviewed the progress of the Ibom International Hospital project. The Ministries of Health and Justice were directed to complete all legal and administrative requirements quickly so that actual work can begin on the site.

At the end of the meeting, Governor Eno led members of the council on a surprise inspection tour of ongoing projects in Uyo. They visited major sites such as the 5,000-seat Convention Centre, Ibom Hotels, and the new ARISE Shopping City—all of which are expected to boost tourism and business in the state.

Through these actions, Governor Eno continues to demonstrate practical leadership—focusing on youth empowerment, infrastructure, business development, and inclusive growth. His commitment to support NYSC members across the country is a clear message that Akwa Ibom State is serious about building the next generation.

07/07/2025

REP. IME OKON - A PHILANTHROPIST IN ACTION

"I don't play sentimental politics, and I encourage good leadership. The students appreciate you, sir, and we want it to be on record today that for the past 10 years, Itu-Ibiono has not enjoyed bursary. Itu-Ibiono Ibom has not had a member who comes back and embraces the students. But today, you have done it. The Lord who gave you first-term will give you second-term." ~ Cmrd Otobong Esara, The immediate past student leader in Itu LGA speaking during the Educational Support/Bursary Award for Itu-Ibiono Ibom students.

Rep. Ime Okon, affectionately known as "Utenge-Ibiono" by his people, has been making waves with his philanthropic efforts as a lawmaker representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency in the National Assembly.

The lawmaker's commitment to giving back to his constituents is evident in his various initiatives, which have touched the lives of many. The above quotation is from one of the students leaders who expressed gratitude during the 1st batch of educational support/bursary award programme sponsored by the federal lawmaker few weeks ago.

According to the various testimonials from students of the federal constituency in higher institutions, bursary award was lacking for so many years. The recent by Rt. Hon. Ime Okon was a respite the students won't forget for a longer time. Aside from beating previous records, it happened at a time when many students were about losing hope on their educational pursuit due to financial constraint.

Hear another testimonial in one of the outings of the former Worldwide President, Otobong Esara, Itu, Akwa Ibom State on June 2, 2025,

"Ukeme Ndarake, a promising student facing the risk of dropping out due to financial constraints, received a lifeline when Mr. Esara brought his case to Hon. Okon’s attention. Moved by the student’s plight, Hon. Okon promptly settled the outstanding fees, ensuring that Ukeme’s education continues without interruption.

"This is not just financial aid. It’s a message of hope for many young people. We are grateful for leaders like Hon. Okon, who listens and acts with purpose,” Esara stated.

These and many more are gratitude encrafted in the hearts of men, which showcases the sterling qualities of Rt. Hon. Ime Okon.

This philanthropic attribute makes his touch with the people more impactful and timeless. And Itu-Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency needs a leader of this character and commitment to public service.

© *Itoro Etti*

05/07/2025

𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘋𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘔𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨: 𝗜𝗺𝗲 𝗢𝗸𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗚𝗼𝘃 𝗘𝗻𝗼’𝘀 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆, 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲

••• 𝙇𝙖𝙪𝙙𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙘𝙪𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙄𝙩𝙖𝙢 𝙄𝙣𝙙𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙖𝙡 𝙋𝙖𝙧𝙠, 𝙨𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙟𝙤𝙗 𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣

The member representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. (Barr.) Ime Bassey Okon, has hailed Governor Umo Eno for his commitment to development and transparency in governance.

Obong Okon, who is the Deputy Chairman of Inter-Governmental Affairs in the Green chamber, gave the commendation in a statement released by his media office following the conclusion of the two-day Project Delivery Meeting held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Uyo.

The meeting, which ended on Friday, July 4, was convened by the Governor to assess the status of 42 priority projects across various sectors of the state, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, tourism, and agriculture, among others.

According to the federal lawmaker, who recently moved with the Governor to the APC, Pastor Umo Eno's leadership style is deliberate, data-driven, and people-focused. He added that Akwa Ibom is fortunate to have a leader who not only initiates projects but also follows through to ensure results.

Part of the statement read, “The Project Delivery Meeting was far from a routine event, it sent a strong message that our leader is focused and deliberate. Every project, timeline, and agency came under review. That level of thoroughness is what drives real development. For the Governor to sit through hours of presentations, personally engage MDAs, and demand timelines, speaks volumes about his commitment.”

The former Transition Chairman of Ibiono Ibom Local Government and two-time member of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, particularly commended the approval granted during the meeting for urgent infrastructure work at the Itam Industrial Park, which falls within his constituency, saying it would unlock economic growth and create jobs for the people of Itu and Ibiono Ibom.

“We are encouraged that His Excellency understands the economic value of that corridor. Industrial growth is key to job creation, and we thank him for prioritising that,” he said.

While reflecting on other outcomes of the meeting, Hon. Okon described the announcement of N20,000 monthly allowance for corps members posted to the state as a welcome gesture that will improve the welfare of young Nigerians serving in Akwa Ibom.

He also praised the Governor’s directive for the Ministry of Education to develop refresher training for teachers during the long vacation period, describing it as a thoughtful way to enhance classroom delivery when schools resume.

“The Governor has carried every sector along. From the Sports Academy in Eket to the Senior Citizens Centre, the Judiciary Quarters, Maritime Transport, One Project Per LGA , every part of the state is touched. That is what governance should look like,” the statement added.

The legal practitioner and member of several House Committees at the National Assembly used the opportunity to reiterate his commitment to continually support the ARISE Agenda by partnering with the Governor to bring federal presence and dividends of democracy to his constituents.

“I’m committed to supporting Governor Eno’s ARISE Agenda and the Renewed Hope of Mr. President. Their approach to service delivery is what we have adopted, and to the glory of God, our constituents have rated us highly in our midterm report. By God's grace, the days ahead will witness even greater impact on our people, because they elected us to represent them, and never will we fail them,” the statement concluded.

05/07/2025

‼️BREAKING NEWS ‼️

*Gov Eno Increases State Allowance for Corps Members from N5,000 to ₦20,000 Monthly*

🎈Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has approved an increase in the monthly state allowance for NYSC members serving in the state from N5,000 to ₦20,000 with effect from August 1st, 2025.

🎈The Governor made this announcement during Day Two of the State Delivery Meeting, held today, Friday, July 4, 2025, at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Uyo.

🎈He explained that the increment is to support the Federal Government’s ₦77,000 monthly allowance, helping corps members meet their basic needs.
“Over 10,000 corps members are posted to Akwa Ibom annually. We must continue to encourage and support them,” the Governor said .

🎈This development follows his recent approval for the reconstruction of the NYSC Orientation Camp at Ikot Itie Idung in Nsit Atai, as part of ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of corps members in the state.

🎈Established in 1973, the National Youth Service Corps is a one-year compulsory service scheme for Nigerian graduates below the age of 30. It was created to foster national integration, unity, and development by deploying young graduates to states outside their region of origin for community service, education, and nation-building efforts.

🎈Akwa Ibom State has remained one of the most welcoming and safest destinations for NYSC members, with corps members actively contributing to sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and rural development.

🎈With this latest move, Governor Eno continues to demonstrate a leadership style anchored on compassion, inclusiveness, and strategic support for the next generation.

@ Ministry of Information , Uyo, 2025.

04/07/2025

IME OKON AND HIS TOUCH OF KINDNESS

“Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you.” ~ Princess Diana.

Over the years, many who have close contact with this erudite solicitor of law and seasoned politician, Rt. Hon. Ime Okon, know that he wears kindness and humility as a second-skin. He allows kindness and humility to have a kiss in his dealings with people.

He must have had this understanding long ago from pruning by his humble background and discipline instilled by his parents. Ime Okon caught the light, knowing kindness can break down barriers, change a person’s entire mood, and create an everlasting bond. It’s one of the most important ways you can show someone you care, that their existence matters to you.

In his assignment in public service, while ensuring deliveries are brought to bear, Ime Okon, though, with imposing physique, stoops, and spread kindness across levels and classes of human life.

Recently, the Administrative Secretary of Palmer Memorial Hospital, Ikot Usen, Ibiono Ibom LGA, Mrs Eno Umoh, bared her mind on the philanthropic attribute of Rt. Hon. Ime Okon.

Hear her, "Idongesit came to the hospital. She was treated but could not clear her medical bill. She has remained for about three months in the hospital. But, through the intervention of this event (The Medical and Surgical Outreach facilitated by Rt. Hon. Ime Okon three months ago), mere telling the House of Representatives Member about her situation, he decided to clear her bill."

Another testimonial (unedited), but with respect to the beneficiary, the message would not be attributed.

"Good evening dear sister, God go bless you for your promptings, I chatted with Oga this evening and he responded handsomely, at least what he gave me can buy few drugs most important is that am sure of eating food for few days, God bless you greet him for me when you see am."

This and many more testimonials are proofs of the milk-of-humankindness that flows in abundance from the heart of this public-servant, who is so contented and runs not after amassing worldly wealth but rather will choose again and again to accumulate lasting wealth through life-saving interventions and people oriented gestures.

Though he rarely speaks of it, his kindness has touched the lives of many, and they politely say inspiring words to Ime Okon (Utenghe Ibiono Ibom).

Itu-Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency needs not just a compassionate leader but a kind and down-to-head steward who understands the essence of the public seat he holds in trust for the people and remains accessible to the same people without prejudice or discrimination.

©️ Iniobong Iwaudofia

01/07/2025

GOV. UMO ENO REDEEMS GOVERNOR'S CUP DOUBLED PRIZE MONIES

Edidiong Stephen
July 1, 2025. Uyo.

The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has redeemed prize monies to the various winners at the 2023/2024 Akwa Ibom State Governor's Cup football championship.

It would be recalled that Governor Umo Eno gave the nod for the revival of the Akwa Ibom World Cup, as the competition is popularly known, at Akwa Ibom Dialog - a townhall meeting of critical stakeholders in the Akwa Ibom polity to herald the new dispensation, only a few weeks into his administration, with the competition running from September 2023 to March 2024.

Team Ikot Abasi defeated Team Uyo 4-3 via penalties after a 1-1 regulation time scoreline in what turned out to be a colourful and eventful final to lift the coveted trophy before a sell-out at Uyo Township Stadium on March 28, 2024. Prior to the final, Urue-offong/Oruko defeated Essien Udim 1-0 in the third-place play-off to emerge second runners-up.

Presenting cheques to the winning LGAs at a brief ceremony held at Godswill Akpabio Stadium, today, Tuesday, the Governor congratulated the winners on having competed fairly and peacefully, describing their victories as just reward for hard work.

The Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, who represented the Governor, explained that the slight delay in the redemption of prizes was as a result of the Governor's magnanimous and compassionate decision to double the prizes.

"His Excellency, the Governor, recently announced the doubling of prize monies for the winners; from N5m to N10m for the champuons - Ikot Abasi, from N3m to N6m for the first runners-up - Uyo, and from N2m to N4m for the second runners-up - Urue-offong/Oruko." "Therefore the bureaucracy involved in the recalibration and overhauling of the previous payment process brought about a slight delay in the redemption of prizes." Mr Bassey said.

Mr Bassey expressed delight that the competition had achieved its primary goal of harvesting talents, stating that a vast chunk of the indigenous players who represented their respective LGAs are now playing professionally and making a living in the various tiers of Nigerian league football and beyond the country's shores.

In their separate responses, the State Chairman of ALGON and Executive Chairman of Uyo - Uwemedimo Udo, the Chairman of Ikot Abasi - Ime Williamson, and the Chairman of Urue-offong/Oruko, Uno Etim Uno, all thanked the Governor for graciously doubling their prize monies and pledged to beef up their teams ahead of the next edition of the championship.

The event was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports - Mrs Rosemary Ubia, and other members of management staff of the ministry, the Chairman of Akwa Ibom State Football Association, Mr Samuel Umoh, Stakeholders of the winning LGAs, as well as the Chairman - Mr Emmanuel Akpan, and members of the Akwa Ibom State chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigerian, SWAN.

01/07/2025

Welcome to July!

A fresh chapter filled with new opportunities, renewed strength, and greater possibilities.

May this month bring good news to your home and progress in all your pursuits.

Let’s keep moving forward, together.

Happy New Month!

-Rt. Hon (Barr) Ime Bassey Okon,
Member, House of Representatives, Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency.

30/06/2025

Civil Society Honours Ibiono Ibom Council Boss with Prestigious Leadership Award

The Chairman of Ibiono Ibom Local Government Council has received a notable recognition for his exceptional leadership skills and dedication to public service. The Coalition of Civil Society Organisation in Nigeria, Abuja, presented the award in appreciation of his visionary leadership and selfless service to humanity.

A delegation led by the National Secretary, Comrade Celeb Udo, visited the council chairman at his office in Oko Ita on Monday, June 30,2025 to present the award.

The group noted that the award serves as a testament to the chairman's ability to inspire and motivate others, as well as his tireless efforts to improve the lives of those in Ibiono Ibom. His leadership has glaringly had a profound impact on the local government area, and this recognition is a fitting tribute to his dedication and hard work.

Responding, the Chairman, Rt Hon. Obong Asuakak Umoh appreciated the team for acknowledging his efforts for his people. The Chairman promised to do even more to the development and progress of Ibiono Ibom Local Government.

-ini-ukara #
#
#
#
#

unit
Office of the Executive Chairman Ibiono Ibom

30062025 UNIVERSAL DATE

30/06/2025

AKSG CLEARS N60BN PENSION BACKLOG*
--Congratulates, HCS, Workers on 2025 Public Service Week.

Akwa Ibom State Government says it has cleared over N60 billion Naira backlog of Pension owed since 2012, even as the government congratulates the Head of Civil Service, Elder Effiong Essien and the entire Akwa Ibom workers, for the successful celebration of the 2025 Public Service Week.

This was made known Sunday 29th in Uyo, during the Thanksgiving Service organized by the Office of the Head of Civil Service for Workers at the International Christian Worship Centre to mark the grand finale of the 2025 Public Service Week Celebration.

Governor Umo Eno said, the N60 Billion Naira backlog is a part of the N90 Billion Naira he inherited from past administrations which accumulated since 2012 and commended Public Servants for their resilience, resourcefulness and dedication which has kept the machinery of government running even in the face of challenges.

The Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Finance and Supervising Commissioner for Ministry of Special Duties and Ibom Deep Sea Port, Mr. Emem Almond Bob, acknowledged the theme of the 2025 Public Service Week Celebration - Leveraging Technology for a Smart and Agile Public Service, emphasizing that, Technology is the new face and portrait of the Public Service towards effective Service Delivery.

He commended the Head of Civil Service, Elder Effiong Essien and the entire Akwa Ibom Workforce on the successful hosting of all activities lined-up for the Weeklong celebration and congratulated, Barr Victor Fabian of the Ministry of Justice and Imo Udofia of the Ministry of Trade and Investment, who recently bagged automatic Special Promotion in Akwa Ibom State Service.

While pledging Government's commitment to the welfare and growth of the Public Service, Governor Eno charged Akwa Ibom workers to skill-up for the changing face of the Public Service with Technological innovations to enable them meet their expectations as the 21st century government workers.

Leading the College of Permanent Secretaries on behalf of all the workers for a Thanksgiving, the Head of Civil Service, Elder Effiong Essien, noted that, with a Worker-friendly Governor like Governor Umo Eno, who has impacted greatly on the lives of workers, there is need to thank the Lord.

Elder Essien enlisted the numerous gains of Akwa Ibom Workers under the Governor Umo Eno-led administration such as: Payment of Pensions and Gratuities, regular payment of staff emolument and grants, release of staff Promotions and provision of SUVs to Permanent Secretaries among others.

In her speech, the Dean, College of Permanent Secretaries, Barr Uduak Eyo-Nsa expressed deep appreciation to God for the gift of clement weather all through the weeklong celebration, thanked the Governor for approving the celebration for workers and pledged workers' commitment, loyalty and dedication to the Governor Umo Eno-led administration in reciprocation of the Governor's kind gesture.

Earlier, the Chairman, Ad-hoc Committee for the Planning and Implementation of the 2025 Public Service Week Celebration and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mrs. Grace Akpan, had listed all activities undertaken in the course of the weeklong event and registered appreciation to all the officials who contributed to its success including: the Honourable Commissioner for Science and Digital Economy, Dr Frank Ekpenyong, the MD, Bulletin Construction, Chief Faysal Harb, the GM, AK-RUWATSAN, Mr. Saviour Udoh and the MD, Ibom Hotel and Delivery Advisor to the Governor on Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh.

The Thanksgiving Service with Glorifying Thanksgiving (John 15: 1-8) as its theme, had the General Overseer of Precious Faith Int'l Church, Rev Emmanuel Iniama, as Guest Minister, featuring praise and worship, song ministration by different choir groups and presentation of a Special Thank You card to the Governor by the Head of Civil Service.

28/06/2025

Ibiono Ibom Chair Attends IWADU Int’l Meeting, Transfers Membership to Home Branch

…As Union Endorses Gov. Umo Eno for Second Term

The Executive Chairman of Ibiono Ibom Local Government Council, Rt. Hon. (Obong) Asuakak Umoh, on Saturday, June 28, 2025, participated in the International General Meeting of the Ibiono Ibom Welfare and Development Union (IWADU), held at the Union’s International Secretariat in Ikpa, Ibiono Ibom LGA.

A dedicated and long-serving member of the union, Hon. Umoh announced plans to introduce a distinct outing uniform for the entire Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area, subject to consultations with relevant stakeholders.

In his address, the Chairman lauded the International President of IWADU, Otuekong Godwin Okon, for his exceptional leadership, particularly for providing business and educational grants to members despite holding the position without remuneration. He praised Okon's selfless commitment to community service and prayed for divine blessings upon him.

Hon. Umoh also enumerated key achievements under his leadership, including significant improvements in electricity supply and other infrastructural developments across the LGA. He called on the people to continue supporting the administration of Governor Umo Eno, PhD, citing the governor’s impactful projects, especially in road construction. He noted that Ibiono Ibom has witnessed unprecedented progress under the current administration, which justifies full support for the governor’s second-term bid.

In a major announcement, Hon. Umoh revealed the official transfer of his IWADU membership, alongside his councillors from the Uyo branch to the Ibiono Ibom home branch, a move aimed at strengthening and developing the local unit.

Following a comprehensive review of the projects executed and ongoing in the area under Governor Eno, the union, through a motion duly moved and seconded, unanimously resolved to support the governor’s re-election bid.

-ini-ukara #
#
#
#
#

unit
Office of the Executive Chairman Ibiono Ibom

28062025 UNIVERSAL DATE

28/06/2025

𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗿 𝗝𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗥𝗵𝗲𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗰? 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜𝗺𝗲 𝗢𝗸𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝘀 𝗗𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗹𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗜𝘁𝘂/𝗜𝗯𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗼 𝗜𝗯𝗼𝗺

In 𝘱𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘴 𝘕𝘪𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘢 (with due respect to The Boss, Akparawa Michael BUSH), effective representation is not just about speaking big grammar on the floor of the House. It’s about impact. It’s about what constituents can point at and say, “Yes, this is our own.”

Of course, the constitution may say lawmakers are to make laws, do oversight, and represent the people, but, the average Nigerian doesn’t follow their representatives to plenary. What matters most to them is the 'empowerment.' They want to feel government in their pockets. They want money. Some are looking for roads, others want to see their schools renovated, they desire jobs; tangible proof that their votes counted for something.

However, it is this blend of legislative responsibility (in politics Nigeriana) and grassroots touch that separates the real performers from the noise makers. And in the case of Hon. (Barr.) Ime Bassey Okon, of Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency, that balance isn’t just visible, it’s impressive. From the green chamber in Abuja to the villages and communities of Itu/ Ibiono Ibom, he has shown that he didn’t just carry his wig and gown as a Barrister and Solicitor of the supreme Court of Nigeria to the House of Reps to speak plenty grammar. He went there with a mission; that is, a heart for his people, and a clear focus on impact.

Now, two years into his tenure as a Federal lawmaker, this calm, accessible and humble lawyer has quietly offered his constituents a quality, effective and effectual representation. Whether you judge him by the bills and motions he has sponsored, or by the tangible projects already springing up across Itu and Ibiono Ibom, one thing is certain, Hon. Ime Okon 'no carry last'. He is indeed working and lobbying hard for his constituents.

At a recent media chat in Uyo, Okon laid bare his scorecard, and many were left with their mouth opened in awe. First thing, he technically addressed one of the biggest misconceptions flying around: that lawmakers were handed ₦1 billion each in cash for constituency projects. That, he clarified, is false. What actually happened, according to him, is that for the first time, each constituency was allowed to nominate projects worth ₦1 billion in the 2025 budget, an upgrade from the usual ₦200 million. And even at that, he revealed that, lawmakers don’t touch the money. It is the various ministries, departments and agencies that handle ex*****on.

That clarification was important, but what came after was mind-blowing. Despite being a first-term lawmaker and not a chairman of any committee, which often gives others an advantage, Ime Okon was able to attract over ₦1.7 billion worth of projects from the 2024 budget alone. That is more than eight times the usual limit. He explained how he had to move from one ministry to another, follow up files, meet officials, and make sure his people were not left behind. It was not for self aggrandizement, not at all, but about commitment.

Ime Okon’s midterm scorecard reads like a mini compendium on grassroots development. It’s the kind of report card you bring home when you know you've been doing your homework quietly but thoroughly.

In Itu LGA, he facilitated the construction of Joshua Uwah Street with full drainage and street lights, solar-powered boreholes in Afaha Itam, classroom blocks at North Itam, and a six-classroom facility at the Technical College, Ayadeghe. In Ibiono Ibom, projects include solar lights in multiple villages communities, and wards, civic centres at Idoro and Nkwa, as well as the donation of modern water pumping equipment.

That's not all. He facilitated scholarships and bursaries to over 300 students, including ₦200,000 apiece to 18 Law School students. His interventions in youth training span vocational tools such as digital vulcanising machines and auto-gas conversion training.

On welfare, Okon distributed four vehicles (including an SUV) and gave financial support to over 800 constituents, including rent, medical bills, school fees, and subsistence allowances regularly. Some constituents have been employed in the UUTH, the Police, Fire Service, and State Civil Service, with more to come. Even families of fallen heroes were not left out. He donated ₦500,000 to support widows in setting up cooperative schemes.

Just when many thought he had wrapped up his rounds of effective representation for the year, Obong Okon dropped yet another surprise of capital empowerment of his constituents billed for the last quarter of this year. And if past outings are anything to go by, then trust the 'Utenghe Ibiono Ibom' to go all out. This one, we hear, will be massive and it's designed to touch real lives across Itu and Ibiono Ibom. The orphans, widows, the youths, the elders, the women hustling with small businesses, the ones with big dreams but little means; the empowerment programme is for them. From vocational tools to start-up grants and business support, everything is being planned to reach those who truly need it most. Four months from now, that massive event might just be another reason why constituents will keep saying: God bless Hon. Ime Okon.

Interestingly, when it comes to politics, Hon. Ime Okon is a movement. He enjoys a cult-like followership that cuts across villages, wards and clans in Itu and Ibiono Ibom because of his rare humility, his open-door style, and how he treats everyone, from the cleaner to the top executive, with equal respect. It’s this genuine connection with the people that made his recent political alignment even more symbolic. Standing with the current political direction of the State, Ime Okon has moved to the APC, where he is now a card-carrying member and pledged to work with other leaders of the party in Itu/Ibiono Ibom to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno, beyond 2027.

For now, if just two years could be this impactful, one can only imagine what a full term, or even a second term, might deliver on this rock-solid foundation.

Gladly, even yesterday’s cynics are beginning to agree with what the people have long seen, that Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency is indeed reaping the dividends of quality, people-centric and effective representation under the calm and competent leadership of Hon. (Obong) Barr. Ime Bassey Okon.

©️ Henshaw Nyong

SunRise MEDIA

08/07/2025

07/07/2025

05/07/2025

05/07/2025

04/07/2025

01/07/2025

01/07/2025

30/06/2025

30/06/2025

28/06/2025

28/06/2025

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share

Category