The Empire Naija

  By Edet Okpo, PhD  Impressed by his qualty representation, competence, sound and robust legislative engagements as well as his stellar performance in the 10th National Assembly, prominent Stakeholders, movers and shakers Of Politics and Community leaders have unaninmously passed a vote Of Confidence On the Chairman, Senate Committee On Solid Minerals and Senator representing Akwa Ibom South (Eket) Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate and adopted him for a Second term in Office. The Stakeholders also moved to end a Single tenure or replacemment option for Senator in the Senatorial District and insisted On Competence, experience and Continuity to enable the Senatorial District witness more developments and benefit more dividends Of democracy. These resolutions were made On December 30, 2025, during End Of the Year Briefing and interface with Stakeholders Of the Senatorial District accross Party lines, held at Villa Marina, Eket, Akwa Ibom State. After listening to a de...

  By Asuquo Edem  The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has passed a ₦1.584 trillion Appropriation Bill for the 2026 fiscal year, approving increased funding for capital projects despite an initial reduction in the budget proposal submitted by the executive. The budget, totalling ₦1,584,271,856,630, was passed on Tuesday, December 30, following the presentation and adoption of the report of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, chaired by Dr. Itorobong Etim. A breakdown of the approved estimates shows that ₦416.59 billion was earmarked for recurrent expenditure, while ₦1.167 trillion was allocated to capital expenditure, reflecting the Assembly’s emphasis on infrastructure and development-driven projects. The report of the committee was received after a motion moved by the Deputy Chief Whip and member representing Oruk Anam State Constituency, Hon. Sampson Idiong, and seconded by Hon. Lawrence Udoide. The motion received unanimous support from lawmakers. Presenting...

  By Edet Okpo Ph.D From whichever angle one looks at it, Senator Ekong Sampson must be commended for his mantra of representation- not just giving fish, but showing Constituents how to fish with adequate and functional tools. That is his own approach to governance and representation. It ultimately follows that whoever thinks he can discourage him or alter his record of quality performance and unquestionable democratic credentials, must be rowing against the tide. Judged by available statistics since June 2023 when he assumed office in the National Assembly, from impact on constituents and the Constituency at large to the promises of more to come, there is no argument that the Chairman , Senate Committee on Solid Minerals and Senator representing Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Senator Ekong Sampson, has performed outstandingly, bringing about a paradigm shift in the history of representation in the Senatorial District since the advent Of democracy i...

Member representing Uyo/Uruan/Nsit Atai/Ibesikpo Asutan Federal Constituency, Hon. Mark Esset,PhD, has sued for peace, while advising the people of Ibiaikot extraction to eschew hatred and divisive tendencies amongst them. Esset made the call yesterday (Sunday) at the Annual Ibiakot Day Celebration, marked on December 28 of every year and organized by Ibiaikot Development Union at the Asan Ibiaikot, Idiaba Village. The federal lawmaker who is a proud son of Ibiaikot, expressed delight to see the convergence of all the sons and daughters of Ibiaikot extraction from all walks of life, noting that, it portrays a formidable front amongst the entire Ibiaikot Group of Villages. He charged the people of Ibiaikot, "Let's come together in unity to uphold the heritage and territorial integrity of Ibiaikot people as the warriors of Nsit Atai". Rep. Mark Esset, while preaching for forgiveness amongst the people of Ibiakot Group of Villages, harped on the dire need for a peaceful coex...

  The Special Assistant to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State on Youth Matters, Mr. Ifiok Akpabio, hosts a Christmas meeting with youths of Mbiaya Uruan in Northern Uruan Ward 1, as part of activities to celebrate the Yuletide season with the grassroots. Speaking at the event, Mr. Akpabio expressed gratitude to the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, HE Pastor Umo Eno, for his continuous support for youths across the state through the "ARISE AGENDA" which he said has continued to positively impact communities and empower young people across the State.  In the spirit of Christmas and community solidarity, Mr. Akpabio presented bags of rice to the youth leader of each family in attendance, alongside cash gifts, as a way of spreading love, easing economic hardship, and reinforcing the values of togetherness associated with the season.  The family youth leaders of Mbiaya Uruan led by the Village Youth Leader, in their response, commended Mr. Ifiok Akpabio for his consistent e...

  ~Edidiong Ita-25/12/25 Yesterday, Rt Hon. Otobong Bob, Majority Leader of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, feted the people of Ikot Ekwere Ubium , commissioned a civic centre built by the Governor,Pastor Umo Eno. Speaking at the event, Rt Hon Otobong Bob assured  the people of continuous government support, highlighting projects initiated for Ikot Ekwere, citing the essence of government as serving the people. Senator Effiong Bob emphasized facilitating projects for the village, recalling roads, library, water projects, schools, and capacity development initiatives he secured during his days as Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He urged support for Governor Umo Eno especially with the many Governmental projects in Ikot Ekwere and Ubium North 3. Mrs Comfort Bob encouraged women to support Governor Umo Eno in 2027, channeling her Christmas support to the women, saying "women are always the last standing". Responding,Eteidung Effiong Jimmy , the village head of Iko...

  The Acting Rector of Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Dr. Akanimo Jonah, has extended warm Christmas greetings to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, PhD, commending his leadership and reaffirming the institution’s support for the state’s development drive under the ARISE Agenda. In a goodwill message issued on behalf of the Management, unions, staff, students, and the entire polytechnic community, Dr. Jonah described the Christmas season as a period of reflection, renewal, and gratitude, anchored on the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. The message reads in parts, “as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, I wish His Excellency a season filled with love, enduring peace, unity, and renewed progress for Akwa Ibom State.” Dr. Jonah lauded Governor Eno’s “unwavering commitment” to the growth and development of the state, noting that the Governor’s inclusive vision of progress and unity clearly articulated through the ARI...

Today, Wednesday 24 December 2025, Okobo Local Government Area brings its rich cultural heritage to the Village Square at Christmas Unplugged 3.0. With the Offiom cultural performance leading the presentation, the people of Okobo showcase traditions shaped by history, coastal life, and community values. Located in the southern part of Akwa Ibom State, Okobo is known for fishing, trading, and strong communal bonds. These influences are reflected in today’s performance through rhythm, costume, and storytelling. Christmas Unplugged provides a platform for Okobo to share its identity openly, inviting residents and visitors to experience culture as it is lived. Today’s celebration is both a cultural display and an invitation to explore Okobo beyond the festival.

  In his usual way Of putting smiles on the faces Of his Constituents and also give them a sense Of belonging in representation, the Chairman, Senate Committee On Solid Minerals and Senator representing Akwa Ibom South (Eket) Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Abuja, Senator Ekong Sampson, has set up and empowered a Special Committee to disptach bags Of rice in trucks, other food items and Millions Of Naira across the 12 Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, in the spirit Of the Christmas Season. The gesture is in line with a tradition that Senator Ekong Sampson has Instituted and sustained over the past two decades.   Since 2023 that hẹ assummed duties as the Senator representing Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, Senator Ekong Sampson has been very consistent and Committed in touching the lives Of his Constituents postively and also evolving programs and Projects that have postively impacted the Socio-economic fortunes Of his cons...

  The 2025 Christmas season promises to be a joyful one for women of Utit Uruan village in Uruan Local Government Area, as Eduongo Offiong & Co., a Chartered Accountants Firm, has once again extended its goodwill through the donation of some food items to the community. Explaining the gesture, Elder Offiong Eduongo, FCA, and Lead Partner of the firm, said the donation was the firm's token in appreciation of the women’s deliberate efforts in maintaining environmental cleanliness, as well as their immense contributions to peace, unity, and development within the community. According to him, “Women play a very sensitive and indispensable role in community building. Our firm remains committed to supporting and encouraging them to sustain their good works and to continue to align with the administration of Governor Umo Eno by supporting government programmes and initiatives.” The food items, which are to be distributed to women across the seven families in the village, included bags...

In the midst of the festive season, today's Obot Akara Local Government Day at Christmas Unplugged 3.0 carries a profound significance that transcends entertainment. Scheduled for Tuesday, 23rd December 2025, at the Christmas Village in Uyo, this event represents a crucial opportunity for cultural preservation and education. Under the stewardship of Rt. Hon. Simon Dominic Akpan, the day is structured to showcase the intricate tapestry of Obot Akara's heritage, offering a formal platform for its traditions to be seen, appreciated, and understood by a wider audience. The importance of such a showcase cannot be overstated. In an era of globalization, dedicated events that focus on local heritage act as vital anchors for community identity. For the people of Obot Akara, this is a day to assert their place in the diverse mosaic of Akwa Ibom State. For visitors and other citizens, it is an immersive lesson in the history and social values of a distinct community. The event promises t...

  By Asuquo Edem  The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Committee on Finance and Appropriation has commended Governor Umo Eno’s development strategy, describing it as a deliberate effort at turning waste into wealth through strategic investment in infrastructure and tourism. Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Itorobong  Etim, made this observation during an on-the-spot assessment of key government projects following the conclusion of the 2026 budget defence exercise. According to her, the Governor’s vision to reposition the state is evident in the quality and value being delivered at project sites inspected by the lawmakers. Dr. Etim particularly applauded Bulletine Construction Company, contractors handling the comprehensive redevelopment of the ARISE Palm Resort, noting that the Committee was satisfied with the level of work done and the judicious deployment of funds appropriated for the project. She observed that an area previously ravaged by erosion has been transformed ...

  The Vice Chairman Of Okobo Local Government Area, Họn (Mrs) Veronica Clement has commended Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno PhD, for his concerted efforts in promoting women participation and inclusion in governance.  The Vice Chairman who gave the Commendation On Sunday, December 21, 2025 , during hẹr thanksgiving and empowerment Programme at St. Paul Catholic Church, Odobo in Okobo Local Government Area, noted  that Governor Umo Eno has implemented policies and programs that prioritize women's empowerment, including the election of 26 women as Vice Chairmen across the 31 Local Government Areas Of the State; election Of numerous Councillors, Supervisors,Ward Personal Assistants and Special Assistants to the Governor, recent appointment Of a female Head Of Civil Service and other Women elected and appointed into key positions in government. Reflecting On how she was nominated by Stakeholders Of Okobo, particularly the immediate past Deputy Speaker Of Akwa Ib...

  By Edet Okpo, PhD "Do you see a man diligent in  his work?"  Wise King Solomon poses this rhetorical question in the Bible book of Proverbs 22:29. Interestingly, he does not  bother the reader to decipher for answers but goes straight to reveal what shall be the ultimate station and status of such a skillful and diligent man: "He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men".The above words synoptically encapsulates Mkpisong (Hon.)  Frank Archibong's life and  Public Service. They speak to diligence, creativity, dynamism, value creation, excellence and elevation as commensurate rewards for a man who knows his onions. In other words, the profound and existential inquiry in Proverbs 22:29 encourages and edifies excellence in one's  occupation, showing that being dedicated and Committed to what one does and is known for naturally leads to prominence, respect, and opportunities that could make one indispensable in every formula that work...

  The Akwa Ibom State Government, on Friday, 19th December, 2025, sealed off the premises of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) Nig. Ltd., a company operating in the State, on account of outstanding Tax Liability of One Billion, Two Hundred and Fifty-five Million, Four Hundred and Nineteen Thousand, Seven Hundred and Eleven Naira, Seventy Kobo (N1,255,419,711.70).  This follows an Enrolment Order issued on the 13th day of November, 2025 at the High Court of Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria in the ONNA Judicial Division Holden at Awa, consequent upon Suit No. HAW/MISC. 14/2025 between Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS) and China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) Nig. Ltd. The seal-off follows an exparte issued by the Presiding Judge, Effiong Effiong, pursuant to Section 104 (4) of the Personal Income Tax Act CAP P8 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2011, Section 40 of the Revenue Administration Law of Akwa Ibom State 2022, Order 36...

  In his continuous desire to ensure the human capacity development of his constituents, member representing Uyo/Uruan/Nsit Atai/Ibesikpo Asutan Federal Constituency in the Green Chamber of the National Assembly, Rep. Mark Esset, PhD, has sponsored a 1-day Strategic Training of 100 youths and women of Uyo Federal Constituency in Agri-business with focus on cocoa farming. He further advised all the participants to take advantage of the training and be committed to acquiring the necessary knowledge of cocoa farming and the business aspects of it. Esset gave the advice at the end of the 1-day training which was hosted at the Civic Centre, Ibakang Village, Nsit Atai Local Government Area. The training, sponsored by Rep. Mark Esset, in collaboration with Nigerian Institute of Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR), Lagos, had 100 trainees in attendance. Rep. Mark Esset congratulated the participants for being amongst those selected to benefit from the training, urging them to attach a...

  By ℕ𝕤𝕚𝕤𝕠𝕟𝕘 𝔼𝕋𝕌𝕂𝕌𝔻𝕆 "My Dear Constituents of Uyo/Uruan/Nsit Atai/Ibesikpo Asutan Federal Constituency, I stand before you today, not merely as a lawmaker, but as one of you, chosen by your trust, sustained by your prayers, and driven by the singular passion to serve our people with sincerity, diligence and purpose. "Effective Representation, to me, is not a title; it is a call to service, a sacred mandate to give a voice to the voiceless, to bring light to forgotten communities, and to ensure that representation does not start and end in Abuja, but a tangible experience in many homes, streets, and villages across our constituency. "When we began this journey, we made a commitment that our representation would not be about promises, but about proofs; not about rhetoric, but about results. "Today, as I present this constituency report, I do so with gratitude to God and with humility before you, because together, we are proving that leadership can be impa...