Obio Akpa Gets Federal Varsity as AKHA Hails Tinubu, Akpabio, Eno

By Asuquo Edem

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology in Obio Akpa, Oruk Anam Local Government Area, describing the development as a significant milestone for education, agricultural advancement and economic growth in the state.

The commendation was made during plenary on Wednesday, following a motion moved by the member representing Oruk Anam State Constituency, Hon. Sampson Idiong, and seconded by the member representing Nsit Ibom State Constituency, Hon. Eric Akpan.

Lawmakers expressed optimism that the new federal institution would expand access to tertiary education, strengthen agricultural research, promote technological innovation and equip students with the knowledge and skills required to drive Nigeria's agricultural transformation.

Leading the call for the House to formally appreciate the President, Idiong, the Deputy Chief Whip, acknowledged the legislative leadership of the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, whom he credited with playing a significant role in facilitating the establishment of the university.

He also commended Governor Umo Eno for making the Obio Akpa Campus of Akwa Ibom State University available to facilitate the immediate take-off of the federal institution.

According to Idiong, the gesture by the state government represents an important contribution towards ensuring that the university begins operations without unnecessary delay.

The lawmaker described the establishment of the university as a major boost to the educational and socio-economic development of Oruk Anam and Akwa Ibom State, noting that its specialised focus on agriculture and technology could create opportunities for research, innovation, employment and enterprise development.

He further congratulated Professor Joseph Essien, an indigene of Oruk Anam and Akwa Ibom State, on his appointment as the pioneer Vice Chancellor of the institution.

Idiong expressed confidence that Essien's leadership would be instrumental in laying a solid foundation for academic excellence, cutting-edge research, technological advancement and sustainable institutional growth.

He urged the Assembly to formally convey its appreciation to President Tinubu for approving the university, while recognising the contributions of Senate President Akpabio and Governor Eno towards the realisation of the project.

Ruling on the motion, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Udeme Otong, directed the Clerk, Mrs. Nsikak-Abasi Orok, to communicate the resolution of the Assembly to the relevant authorities.

The House subsequently adjourned plenary until Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 12 noon.

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