By Solomon OKPO.
Senator Ekong Sampson, representing Akwa Ibom South in the Senate, has once again been recognized for his outstanding contributions to education and legislative excellence. The Postgraduate Students Union of the University of Uyo conferred upon him the ‘5 Star Award of Excellence’ during its 2025 Dinner and Award Night, held on Wednesday, February 26, at the Nelson Mandela Hall, Watbridge Hotels, Uyo.
A strong advocate for education, Senator Sampson has consistently championed initiatives that enhance learning opportunities across Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria. As the founder of Excellence College, Ikot Unya, he has played a pivotal role in shaping secondary education in the region. His commitment extends beyond infrastructure, as he has empowered many constituents through scholarships and educational grants.
In his legislative capacity, Senator Sampson holds key positions, serving as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals and Vice Chairman of the Committee on Education (Basic & Secondary). His efforts have led to significant interventions in the education sector, including the construction of modern ICT/CBT labs at St. Vincent Secondary School, Oti-Oro Okobo LGA, St. Francis Secondary School, Ikot Ataku, Eket, and Excellence College, Ikot Unya, along with staff quarters for educators.
Additionally, he has been instrumental in pushing for the establishment and expansion of tertiary institutions in the state, including the Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi; the Federal University of Medical Sciences, Eket; and the full take-off of the University of Maritime Studies, Oron. His recent interventions include constructing an academic block at the Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi, and facilitating educational empowerment programs for hundreds of students.
While presenting the award, the President of the Postgraduate Students Union, Dr. Etimbuk Idiong, commended Senator Sampson for his unwavering dedication to educational advancement. He highlighted the lawmaker’s influence in promoting higher learning and policy reforms that benefit students across Nigeria.
In his acceptance speech, Senator Sampson expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for better educational access and infrastructure in Akwa Ibom South and beyond.
This latest honor adds to a growing list of accolades for the distinguished lawmaker. Just last December, the Senate Press Corps of the National Assembly recognized him with a ‘Legislative Excellence Award’, acknowledging him as a rising voice in the 10th Senate.
With his continued focus on education and legislative impact, Senator Ekong Sampson remains a formidable force in shaping Nigeria’s educational landscape.
