By Amawu Cletus Albert Amawu
As Senator Prince Asuquo Ekpenyong marks his second legislative year representing the Southern Senatorial District of Cross River State in Nigeria’s 10th Senate, his tenure emerges as a shining testament to transformational leadership and the power of purposeful representation. In a legislative landscape often marred by inertia, Senator Ekpenyong has distinguished himself with a visionary, people-centred approach anchored in compassion, credibility, and commitment to development.
From the outset, Senator Ekpenyong made a bold and unequivocal pledge: “My primary mission in the Senate is the accelerated development of our land and people, nothing else.” Two years on, his record speaks louder than words, proving him to be not merely a legislator, but a dynamic servant-leader whose achievements are redefining the very essence of public service.
Education: Empowering the Future
A cornerstone of Senator Ekpenyong’s legislative agenda has been his exceptional investment in education. Through his flagship Education Support Initiative, he has disbursed ₦100,000 bursaries to 1,600 students across three successful editions, amounting to an impressive ₦100 million commitment. In 2024 alone, 1,000 students benefited from this programme, illustrating his firm belief in education as the bedrock of social progress.
The ripple effects of his educational efforts have reached international heights: 31 constituents have secured foreign scholarships, opening doors to global academic opportunities. Domestically, 1,700 students have received direct educational support, reinforcing his message that “our people deserve opportunities that allow them to thrive, education to shape their future…”
Health, Infrastructure, and Inclusive Economic Growth
True to his promise of holistic development, Senator Ekpenyong has significantly improved healthcare access and infrastructure across the district. Over 4,400 constituents have benefited from medical outreach programmes, ensuring that even the most underserved communities receive critical health services.
On the infrastructure front, eight major roads have been reconstructed, with 16 kilometres of new roads completed. Free bus services now operate across 19 strategic routes, enhancing mobility and trade. Seven solar-powered boreholes now serve water-stressed communities, and 6,870 streetlights have been installed, significantly improving night-time security and community life.
In tandem with physical development, employment creation and economic inclusion have remained front and centre. Through his coordinated efforts, 30 constituents have secured jobs in the federal civil service, including managerial roles at the Federal Inland Revenue Service, while 12 others now hold key appointments within the National Assembly. These achievements underscore his understanding that “employment sustains livelihoods and creates dignity.”
Working closely with the Governor of Cross River State and the President of the Senate, Senator Ekpenyong has contributed meaningfully to policies geared towards economic sustainability, resilience, and regional equity. As Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), he has ushered in a new era of transparency and near-total project implementation, an outstanding accomplishment by any measure.
Responsive Representation and Legislative Excellence
One of the hallmarks of Senator Ekpenyong’s tenure is his consistently responsive and inclusive approach to representation. Grounded in a grassroots philosophy, he maintains close dialogue with constituents to ensure that his interventions are authentically aligned with their needs.
Legislatively, he has made a significant mark, sponsoring five critical bills and initiating six strategic motions, an extraordinary record for a first-term senator. Among these is the historic South-South Development Commission Bill, which has now been signed into law. Senator Ekpenyong has declared, “I am deeply honoured by this appointment and ready to work tirelessly with my colleagues to ensure that the South-South Development Commission delivers on its mandate of transforming our region.”
A Statesman Beyond Borders
Beyond national borders, Senator Ekpenyong has represented both Nigeria and Cross River South on 17 international platforms, amplifying the voices of his constituents and advocating for greater global engagement. His belief is clear: “the destiny of our constituency is intricately linked to global opportunities.”
His efforts have not gone unnoticed. Recently, he was honoured with the ThisDay Global Leaders Award, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to public service delivery and legislative leadership.
And President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, having recognised Senator Ekpenyong’s capacity for leadership, broad acceptance across social demographics, strong engagement skills, and sharp analytical acumen, has named him alongside a select few to help spearhead a planned National Youth Conference aimed at initiating a nationwide dialogue for the youth of Nigeria.
Conclusion
As Senator Prince Asuquo Ekpenyong celebrates two years in the 10th Senate, one thing is abundantly clear: his tenure represents a new paradigm in political leadership, visionary, accountable, and deeply connected to the grassroots. His proactive and people-centred approach has not only raised the bar but redefined it entirely.
The Southern Senatorial District of Cross River State, and indeed Nigeria as a whole, can take immense pride in his record of achievement. His words capture the essence of his service: “I am in the Senate to serve, to build, and to ensure that no community in my district is left behind.” With such a guiding ethos, there is every reason to look ahead with optimism and expectation.
Congratulations Senator Ekpenyong on this milestone. It is hope that this legacy of impactful leadership will endure for generations to come.