The Empire Naija

  In response to the criticisms regarding the construction of sanitation and hygiene facilities in Esit Eket and other local government areas, which were approved by the Akwa Ibom State Executive Council at its meeting on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, it is important to acknowledge the broader implications of this initiative and the positive impact it will have on the selected communities.  His Excellency the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno PhD, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to the welfare of the people of Akwa Ibom State, and this project is a testament to that dedication.  First and foremost, the construction of sanitation facilities is a crucial step towards making Esit Eket Open Defecation Free (ODF). This initiative is not merely about providing toilets; it is about enhancing public health, improving hygiene standards, and fostering a cleaner environment for our citizens. Open defecation poses significant health risks, and by addressing this issue, the Governor is pr...

On behalf of my family and the good people of Uyo/Uruan/Nsit Atai/Ibesikpo Asutan Federal Constituency, I heartily felicitate with the Executive Chairman of Uyo Local Government Area, Hon. Uwemedimo E. Udo PhD on this remarkable celebration of his birthday. Indeed, you are a worthy ambassador of Uyo Federal Constituency, and we are proud to have you emerge as the Chairman of all the Local Government Council Chairmen in Akwa Ibom State. I pray that the Almighty God grant you good health, strength and the enablement to continue to offer a remarkable "Service Alone" to your people and make us proud as a worthy ambassador of the Federal Constituency. Once again, Happy birthday my dear brother, Hon. Uwemedimo Udo PhD., Executive Chairman, Uyo Local Government Area and ALGON Chairman, Akwa Ibom State. Hon. Mark Udo Esset  Member representing Uyo/Uruan/Nsit Atai/Ibesikpo Asutan Federal Constituency & Chairman, Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Relations, House of Representatives,...

  Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organizations, Senator Aniekan Bassey, has strongly condemned the recent protest in Ghana targeting Nigerians, describing it as “deeply disturbing and contrary to the spirit of African brotherhood.” The Senator was reacting to a viral video on social media showing some Ghanaians protesting and calling on their authorities to expel Nigerians from the country over claims that their behaviour was not in line with Ghanaian norms. Senator Bassey, a member of the 6th Legislature of the ECOWAS Parliament, in a statement on Tuesday, called on both Nigeria and Ghana to maintain the long-standing bond of friendship, mutual respect, and regional cooperation that binds the two nations. “We must keep the flame of brotherhood alive. Nigeria and Ghana, as key members of ECOWAS, should be at the forefront of promoting peace, unity, and regional integration as enshrined in the ECOWAS charter,” he said. Senator Bassey commended the ...

  The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has passed for second reading a bill seeking to establish the Akwa Ibom State Council on Climate Change . The bill, titled Akwa Ibom State Council on Climate Change Law, 2024 (HAB-362) , is sponsored by the Deputy Chief Whip and member representing Oruk Anam State Constituency, Prince Sampson Idiong , with the support of 14 other lawmakers. It scaled second reading during plenary on Tuesday. Leading the debate, Prince Idiong said the bill aims to domesticate the National Climate Change Act within the state, providing a structured framework for coordinating climate action efforts and related initiatives. He stressed the urgency for Akwa Ibom to align with global climate strategies to reduce the adverse impacts of climate change. According to him, “It is time for Akwa Ibom to proactively adopt climate-friendly policies and institutional frameworks that support environmental protection and sustainability.” In support of the bill, the House...

  By Asuquo Edem  The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has raised concern over the alleged kidnapping of thirteen residents of Itu Mbonuso in Ini Local Government Area by persons suspected to be from Arochukwu, Abia State. The alarm was raised during Monday’s plenary when the member representing Ini State Constituency, Hon. Lawrence Udoide, brought a matter before the House under a Matter of Urgent Public Importance. Hon. Udoide called on the Assembly to take swift action to secure the release of the abducted constituents and prevent a recurrence of the incident. Contributing to the debate, Hon. Eric Akpan, member representing Nsit Ibom State Constituency, condemned what he described as a brazen invasion by Arochukwu elements. “Arochukwu invading Itu Mbonuso is unacceptable,” he stated. “The primary aim of government is the security of lives. Our government must interface with the Abia State Government. Our people have a right to live freely.” Also lending his voice, Hon. Mos...

  By Asuquo Edem  In a landmark move to strengthen democratic processes and ensure continuity in governance, the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly on Monday held a public hearing on a bill seeking to provide a legal framework for the peaceful and orderly transfer of executive power from one democratically elected governor to another. Declaring the hearing open, the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Elder Udeme Otong described the bill as strategic, stating that it was aimed at curbing abuse of power during transitions while safeguarding the interests of the people. He emphasized that the proposed legislation would serve the larger good of the citizens by ensuring seamless handover and sustained development. In his remarks, Hon. Emem Udom, Chairman of the House Committee on Inter-Governmental, Political and Special Matters, underscored the essence of peaceful transfer of power as the cornerstone of democracy. He noted that beyond symbolic ceremonies, true transit...

  By Edet Okpo With the 10th National Assembly formally inaugurated on June 13, 2023, Rep Martins Esin broke record when, just within 75 days in office as a National Assembly Lawmaker, representing the good people Of  Oron/Mbo/Okobo/Udung Uko/Urueffong Oruko federal Constituency, he broke the record  with the launch of his first capacity-building programme. That was the first green light to what was to come to the People Of Oro Nation. The multifaceted empowerment package targeted 160 beneficiaries directly, besides collateral effects that were bound to follow. That was later followed by the  launch of 100 Million Naira Oro Youth Enterprise Scheme (OYES). That, again, was designed to rejuvenate 300 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), with short and long-term objectives of stimulating economic growth and development of the Federal Constituency; creating avenues for self-reliance especially amongst the youths; giving hope to the generality of constituents, and strengt...

  “Ephraim Inyangeyen’s Ordination – Desire Granted “The ordination signals a new level of commitment to this gospel of my Lord Jesus Christ” – Pastor Inyangeyen By Substance Udo-Nature On Sunday, 20th July, 2025, Mr. Ephraim Akparawa Inyangeyen, was ordained a Pastor in the Insight Bible Church, Abuja. He is the former Commissioner for Works and pioneer officiallly recognized Chief of Staff to the former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel. It is interesting that all the necessary distractions along the course of time have not disconnected his focus from this grand desire.  Although it was nothing so extraordinary to celebrate with fanfare or boast about, just imagine how busy and sensational front pages of newspapers especially in Akwa Ibom State would have been was Inyangeyen involved in something negative. Just imagine. But there was mischievous quiet in the media over his ecclesiastical call!  Not that he craved such publicity or is bothered about the indi...

  Just like the parable of the "blind men and the elephant," Ime Okon has remained the elephant with many parts, which forms the various perspectives held by the people.  According to Winston Churchill, a former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, known for his leadership, oratory skills, and writings on history and politics; "we make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." Rt. Hon. Barr. Ime Okon, the Member representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency at the Nigerian National Assembly, through his numerous acts of benevolence, has showcased the part mostly touched by men.  Through this unwavering dedication to kindness and affecting lives, Rt. Hon Okon has impacted the lives of numerous individuals and families within his constituency, showcasing his genuine concern for their well-being.  Aside from being committed to his primary responsibility of making laws as a lawmaker, Rt. Hon Okon has demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of...

  The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Senator Aniekan Bassey, has called for a structured diaspora engagement for the good and progress of the nation. Senator Bassey made the call on Friday at the State House Banquet Hall, Aso Rock, Abuja, where he joined stakeholders and government officials at the 2025 National Diaspora Day celebration, themed “Optimising Formidable Diaspora Potentials for National Development and Growth.” Delivering his goodwill message, Senator Bassey commended the efforts of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), led by Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, for their sustained commitment to engaging the Nigerian diaspora as a critical partner in national development.  Senator Bassey, who represents the Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District, lauded the contributions of Nigerians abroad, noting their significance in investments, knowledge transfer, cultural diplomacy, and economic support. “Your dedicatio...

  The Member representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. (Barr.) Ime Bassey Okon, has congratulated renowned broadcaster and Ibiono-born media personality, Obong George Iniabasi Essien who holds the revered chieftaincy title of UTIN IBIONO IBOM and popularly known as Mighty George, on his official recognition by the Guinness World Records. Mighty George recently earned global acclaim after completing the longest marathon radio talk show, lasting 105 hours and 8 seconds, a feat officially confirmed by Guinness World Records. The event, which captured national attention, now positions Ibiono Ibom on the world map for media excellence. In his congratulatory message, Barr. Ime Okon described the achievement as “a proud and historic moment” for the constituency and Nigeria at large, commending the broadcaster’s resilience, mental strength, and global ambition. “Mighty George has carried the brilliance of Ibiono Ibom to the world stage. His...

  The Member representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Hon. (Barr.) Ime Bassey Okon, has commended Governor Umo Eno over the commencement of construction work on the Ukpakon-Okpoto-Ikpanya Road. The road, which links several rural communities in Ibiono Ibom and Ini Local Government Areas, had remained in a deplorable state for decades, making movement difficult and cutting residents off from all activities. Its construction by the Akwa Ibom State Government has been described by the lawmaker as a life-changing intervention for the people. Reacting to the development, Hon. Okon, who is the Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs, said the project is a direct reflection of Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to rural development as enshrined in the ARISE Agenda. “I want to thank our leader, His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno, Ph.D, for the genuine love he has shown to our people. Communities like Ikpanya and Okpoto had waited endlessly ...

  The Managing Director of the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), 𝐌𝐬. 𝐔𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐨 𝐀𝐤𝐩𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐨 paid a courtesy visit to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), 𝐇𝐢𝐬 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐆𝐞𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞 𝐀𝐤𝐮𝐦𝐞, in Abuja Monday, July 21, 2025. During the meeting, H.E. Sen. Akume congratulated the newly appointed leadership of the Commission and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to accelerating development across the South-South region. He urged the team to execute their mandate with diligence, innovation, and integrity, emphasizing that their appointment reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s confidence in their capacity to transform the region. The visit also featured the formal presentation of appointment letters to the Commission’s leadership team, marking the official commencement of their duties. With renewed energy and support from the highest levels of government, the South-South Development Commission is set to usher ...

  By Asuquo Edem  In a testament to the power of compassion and community-driven leadership, Hon. Ime Okon, representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency, has become a beacon of hope for his constituents. The lawmaker's commitment to uplifting his community is evident in his numerous initiatives. *Empowering the Next Generation* Okon's bursary program has not just made a tangible impact on 18 law students, each receiving N200,000 to support their academic pursuits, but also more than 300 students  from the Federal Constituency studying various courses in higher Institutions across the country have also benefitted from this humane nature with N50,000 each for their educational support. This gesture not only alleviates financial burdens but also fosters a new generation of leaders. *Healing Hands* His recent free healthcare program has been a lifeline with over 1,157 medical cases and 105 surgeries handled to provide critical medical attention to those in need. This ini...

  BY Edet Okpo  The  Executive Chairman of Ibeno Local Government Area, Hon (Deaconess) Glory Effiong Ekah, is leaving nobody in doubt about her leadership acumen, Vision and the capacity to deliver positive dividends of democracy to the people of Ibeno Local Government Area. No wonder her name has been constant on the tongues of every Ibeno indigene at home and beyond. The general feeling is that her performance has opened new pages in the history of Ibeno and the people have shown no pretences in their appreciation for what is happening in the local government Area courtesy of her inclusive and result- oriented administration. Let's break it into concrete details before cynics and Thomases mistake evidential testaments for exaggeration. A study of her modus operandi has revealed three critical components that drive her style.  One, from the day she assumed office, she adopted integrity and accountability as a creed for everything she would do. Two, she places the p...

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has ordered the management of Ibom Resort and Hotels Limited to reinstate Norah Edet Ukoh and ensure that she receives adequate financial compensation for her wrongful termination. The Legislature also directed the Committee on Culture and Tourism to urgently conduct an oversight review to determine whether the recommendations of the Joint Committees have been implemented.  Additionally, the Committee is to investigate the lapses in the hotel's administration that were uncovered during the investigation. The House gave the directive during the plenary session on Thursday, July 10, 2025, following a report presented by Hon. Uwem Imo-Ita, the Chairman of the Joint House Committees on Judiciary, Justice, Human Rights, Public Petitions and Special Projects, Monitoring, and Implementation. Imo-Ita stated that the termination of Norah Ukoh's services was considered unfair due to a lack of due process, adding that the committees found that Norah U...

  BY Edet Okpo & Nature- Udo Substance  The ongoing construction of Oron Marine Terminal Project certainly Speaks a lot about Governor  Umo Eno's developmental mindset, his sincere love for Oro ethnic Nationality and the State government’s lofty intentions to diversify the economy through the Blue Economy corridor. A real-time walk around the busy project site revealed even more than what has been said by Governor Umo Eno at different fora or published in the media about this massive undertaking by the Akwa Ibom State Government. Until you have visited the site, you may not have known exactly what is going on there. It is simply amazing. This can be said without any sentiments or fear of contradiction.  As part of activities crowning the just concluded 3-Day Media Symposium on the theme: “Communication Dynamics and Corporate Governance in Akwa Ibom State”, organized by the Association of Eket Senatorial District Media Professionals in collaboration with the Facul...

  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 als...

Nsikak Akpan  The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Committee on Education on Wednesday 2nd July, 2025, held a Public Hearing on a crucial bill seeking to establish the Akwa Ibom State School of Culinary Studies and Hospitality Management, along with a governing Board to oversee its operations. The bill, titled A Bill For A Law To Establish the Akwa Ibom State School of Culinary Studies/Hospitality Management And A Board, and For Other Matters Connected Thereto, aims to provide specialized training in culinary arts and hospitality services. If passed into law, it is expected to foster job creation, promote entrepreneurship, and enhance the state’s economic development, particularly in the tourism and service industries. Chairman of the Committee and Member Representing Oron/Udung Uko State Constituency, Hon. (Mrs.) Kenim Onofiok, described the bill as a key milestone aligning with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, which emphasizes educational advancement and entrepreneurial growth. ...

   Itoro Bassey  In what seems like a departure from the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno's directive urging his appointees to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) alongside him, it has been observed that several officials in Esit Eket Local Government Area, including the PDP leader Engr. Ben Udobia, the Council Chairman, Hon. Uduak Ikott, Vice Chairman, and the Commissioner for Power, Mr. Iniobong Robson, have yet to formally resign their membership from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as instructed by the governor. The absence of Engr Udobia, Hon. Ikott, and Iniobong Robson during a Stakeholders meeting where President Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno and Senate President were endorsed for a second term held at the APC secretariat in Ikpa, Esit Eket, last week, was clearly obvious, a gathering which  included the Governor's Advisor on Women Projects, Dr. Ini Adiakpan, and former assemblyman, Dr. Usoro Akpanusoh amongst other APC stakeholders It is alleged that so...