A fresh wave of educational and economic support is set to sweep across Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District as Senator Ekong Sampson, PhD, commences the disbursement of a ₦100 million educational grant to students drawn from the district’s twelve local government areas.
According to the Chairman of the Senator Ekong Sampson Empowerment Committee, Barr. Ini Ikott, the grants will be released today, Monday, December 1, 2025, at the Constituency Office along Atabong Road, Eket. He noted that the initiative is aimed at helping beneficiaries meet essential academic needs, reinforcing the senator’s belief that education remains the most enduring legacy for nurturing future leaders.
In addition to the student grants, Senator Sampson has earmarked another ₦100 million for business support and social welfare programmes. A further ₦250 million is dedicated to skills acquisition and training, accompanied by a free health initiative, all under his comprehensive empowerment agenda.
Speaking during the event in Eket, the lawmaker stated that this second phase of his empowerment programme reflects his commitment to fulfilling campaign promises and providing tangible support to constituents beyond legislative duties. He affirmed that key stakeholders in the education and political sectors will be present at the disbursement ceremony.
“This programme is about uplifting lives and ensuring that the people of Akwa Ibom South have access to opportunities that enhance their welfare,” he said.
The initiative has sparked excitement among students, who describe it as unprecedented in the history of one of Nigeria’s largest senatorial districts.
David Mfonobong, a beneficiary from the University of Lagos, expressed gratitude for being selected on merit, noting that students from the Ekid nation in first-generation universities rarely benefit from such interventions.
Another beneficiary, Miss Favour Edem, praised the programme as a lifeline during a period of severe economic hardship. She revealed that some students had considered deferring their studies due to financial strain.
“With this support, we can continue with our studies and work toward a brighter future,” she said.
The overarching goal of the initiative is to promote education, reduce financial burden, and inspire academic excellence among youths in the district.
Meanwhile, Senator Sampson announced that an additional ₦100 million business grant will be released on December 14, followed by the distribution of vehicles, minibuses, and other empowerment materials.
