The Empire Naija

The Ibeno Traditional Rulers Council  has thrown their weight behind the aspiration of Dr. Eunice Thomas for Eket Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives in the forthcoming elections, declaring that the time has come to give women a fair opportunity in political leadership.  Speaking during a consultative meeting held at the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Ibeno in Iwuokpom, the Paramount Ruler of Ibeno Local Government Area, HRM Owong Amb. (Prof.) Effiong B. Archianga (JP) emphasized that society consists of both male and female, and equity demands balanced representation.  He noted that while men have long dominated the political space, the people of Ibeno are now ready to support a capable woman, describing Dr. Thomas as “tested and trusted.” stressing the need for a competent hand who understands governance and grassroots development.  Recalling her track record as a former member of the State Executive Council and board member of the NNPC, he ...

  The Senator representing Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District, Aniekan Bassey, on Tuesday undertook an inspection of the ongoing construction of the 3.96 kilometre Adadia Market- Ekim Enen–Esuk Odu Beach Road, a project he facilitated through the Akwa Ibom State RAAMP. The construction project is handled by Rosh Es Nigeria Limited.  Speaking shortly after the visit, Senator Bassey said the inspection is part of his commitment to ensuring quality delivery and timely completion of critical infrastructure projects across the senatorial district.  He expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and reiterated his resolve to continue attracting impactful development projects to rural communities. The Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District Senator also hinted that “the Adadia–Esuk Odu Road, when completed, is expected to significantly improve connectivity within the area, easing the movement of people, goods, and services.” “For residents, the road will open up economic...

  By Asuquo Edem  In a strategic move to inspire a new wave of productivity and self-reliance among young people, the Managing Director of the South South Development Commission (SSDC), Usoro Akpabio, on Sunday hosted an Easter gathering with youths drawn from across Akwa Ibom State, delivering a compelling message centered on skills development, innovation, and economic empowerment. The interactive session, held at Lamems Hotel, brought together a cross-section of young people for engagement on opportunities within key sectors of the regional economy. Speaking passionately, Akpabio underscored the critical role of youths and women in driving sustainable development across the South-South region. “It’s an honour to be here to engage with young minds. Development in the South-South hangs largely on the shoulders of women and youths,” she said, emphasizing that the region is richly endowed with creativity and untapped talent. She identified priority areas such as infrastructure,...

  By Asuquo Edem  In the evolving landscape of Nigeria’s tertiary education system, infrastructure remains a defining factor in determining the quality of learning, research, and innovation. It is against this backdrop that Rt. Hon. Kufreabasi Edidem has brought forward a compelling motion, drawing attention to both the achievements and the urgent gaps in the intervention efforts of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), particularly in Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU). Since its establishment in 2011, TETFund has played a transformative role in revitalizing Nigeria’s public tertiary institutions. Through strategic investments in infrastructure, research, and academic development, the agency has significantly improved the learning environment across universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Notably, over 687 capital projects—including lecture theatres, student hostels, and medical facilities—have been executed nationwide, signaling a sustained commitment to...

By Asuquo Edem  At a time when the world is grappling with silent battles of the mind—stress, depression, anxiety, and social dislocation—Akwa Ibom State is taking a decisive legislative step that could reshape its public health landscape for generations. At the centre of this bold move is Moses Essien, Chairman of the House Committee on Health, whose presentation of the Mental Health Services Bill report signals a shift from neglect to necessity. What may appear, at first glance, as a routine legislative document is in fact a carefully structured response to one of the most pressing yet under-addressed issues of our time: mental health. The proposed law seeks to establish a Mental Health Services Department in Akwa Ibom State—an institutional framework designed not only to regulate care but to protect the dignity and rights of individuals living with mental health conditions. In today’s fast-evolving world, the pressures are unmistakable. Economic strain, family instability, digit...

  By Edet Okpo  The Atak Oro Development Union, a prominent and apex  socio-cultural organization in Atak Oro political bloc Of  Okobo Local Government Area , has thrown its full  weight behind Hon. Bassey Pius Bassey, the incumbent representative of Okobo State constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and unanimously endorsed him for a second term in office. The union  made the endorsement on  Friday, April 3, 2026, in Nsie Atak Oro Village before  proceeding On thank You Visit to Họn. Bassey Pius Bassey,  wherein they also lauded the lawmaker for donating an official vehicle to their organization.  The President General of Atak Oro Development Union, Hon. Chief Effiong Asanwana, described the gesture  by Họn. Bassey Pius Bassey as historic and  unprecedented since the existence Of the Union for the past sixty five( 65)  years. The visibly elated President General, referenced  Hon. Bassey Pius Bassey, Me...

  By Asuquo Edem  In many local government offices across Akwa Ibom State, towering stacks of paper files, delayed approvals, and slow communication still define the rhythm of governance. Yet, in an era where even small-scale traders in rural communities rely on smartphones for daily transactions, this analogue approach increasingly appears out of step with reality. That disconnect is now at the center of a bold legislative push led by Prince Ukpong Akpabio II, who is advocating for a comprehensive integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into local government administration across the state. His motion is more than a policy proposal—it is a call to reimagine how governance works at the grassroots. Local governments occupy a unique and strategic position as the closest tier of government to the people. They are responsible for delivering essential services—from primary healthcare and sanitation to local infrastructure and community development. However, wh...

  A renewed push to harness the economic potential of Nigeria’s South-South gained momentum as Ambassadors-Designate from the region pledged firm support for the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) in its drive to attract investment and accelerate development. At a strategic engagement session convened with diplomats, the Managing Director of SSDC, Ms. Usoro Akpabio, said the Commission is deliberately building alliances with Nigeria’s foreign missions to fast-track growth across key sectors. The meeting, which drew participation from ambassadors both in-person and virtually, as well as SSDC Board members and Executive Directors, served as a platform to align priorities and deepen cooperation for regional transformation. Akpabio underscored the importance of leveraging diplomatic channels to promote trade, unlock foreign direct investment, encourage technology transfer, and address environmental challenges in the region. She described the South-South as a cornerstone of Niger...

  The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the South South Development Commission (SSDC), Usoro Akpabio, emerged as a key figure at the All Progressives Congress (APC) 2026 National Convention, held over the weekend in Abuja. Akpabio, who served as a member of the National Convention Central Coordination Committee and Secretary of the Venue Sub-Committee, played a pivotal role in the planning and execution of the high-profile political gathering. Her active involvement in coordinating activities at the venue underscored her organisational capacity and growing influence within the ruling party. The convention, which took place at Eagle Square, drew party leaders, delegates, and supporters from across the country. Deliberations at the event focused on strengthening party unity, enhancing internal structures, and positioning the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections. Observers noted that Akpabio’s prominent presence among top party stakeholders signals her rising profile...

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno PhD, says he is Impressed and satisfied by the stellar performance and quality representation of the Chairman , House Committee On Environment and Member representing Okobo State Constituency in Akwa Ibom State House Of Assembly, Hon. Bassey Pius Bassey. The Governor made the Commendation during the Constituency Briefing and empowerment Program, organised by the Okobo lawmaker On tuesday, March 24, 2026 at Government Model School, Okobo.  Represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mkpisong Frank Archibong, Governor Umo Eno said he was very delighted to see a lawmaker complements his Arise Agenda by doling out Millions Of Naira to boost the economic fortunes and education Of his Constituents through business and Students Grants, distribution Of quality Vehicles to individuals, organisations, Nigeria Police Force and donation Of outboard engines and other empowerment Initiatives for Sustainable self-reli...