By Solomon OKPO / Bassey EDUNO
Senator Sampson Boosts Schools, Healthcare, Power Supply, as Motorcycle Distribution Nears
By Bassey Eduno
Distinguished Senator Ekong Sampson has intensified his constituency development efforts with fresh interventions in education, healthcare, rural electrification, and empowerment across Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District.
During an inspection visit to Girls’ High School, Ikot Ibiok in Eket Local Government Area, the lawmaker assessed ongoing plans for the construction of staff quarters and the rollout of a digital literacy programme in the school. He disclosed that the institution, described as the only girls’ secondary school in Eket Federal Constituency, has been recommended for a Federal Government-backed smart education initiative, which has already received approval.
Sampson, who serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development and Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Education (Basic and Secondary), said the intervention would equip students with relevant digital skills while improving teachers’ welfare through decent accommodation and enhanced security infrastructure, including perimeter fencing and street lighting.
The senator’s visit to the school was unscheduled, reflecting what aides described as his low-profile approach to public service. He was received by the Vice Principal (Special Duties), Mr. Godwin Sunday, who conducted him round the facilities.
In the health sector, Sampson also inspected newly constructed Doctors’ Call Rooms at Immanuel Hospital in Eket, a project aimed at improving healthcare delivery. A similar facility has been completed at the General Hospital in Ikot Abasi.
Further strengthening his education portfolio, the lawmaker has established ICT/CBT centres in several institutions, including Excellence College, Ikot Unya in Mkpat Enin; St. Francis Secondary School, Ikot Ataku in Eket; and St. Vincent Secondary School, Oti-Oro in Okobo.
Last December, Sampson disbursed ₦100 million in education grants to 500 students and selected teachers across the senatorial district, underscoring his commitment to human capital development.
As part of efforts to improve infrastructure, the senator announced plans for a major reactivation of electricity facilities in Ikot Ataku and surrounding communities within the year. This follows earlier interventions, including the installation of a 500KVA transformer in Okon Clan, Eket, which restored power supply to parts of the area.
Earlier in the day, Sampson paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of Eket Local Government Area, Hon. Akaniyene Tommey, where he briefed the council leadership on ongoing and proposed projects in the area.
Meanwhile, the Motorcycle Riders’ Union in Akwa Ibom South has commended the senator for incorporating its members into his empowerment programme. The union, led by its Coordinator, Chief Jonah Okpop, gave the commendation during an inspection of motorcycles procured for distribution.
Speaking during a meeting with the Chairman of the Senator Ekong Sampson Empowerment Committee, Otuekong Barr. Ini Ikot, the union leadership described the initiative as inclusive and impactful.
The empowerment scheme, which is set for rollout, includes the distribution of over 100 motorcycles, alongside engine boats, tricycles, farming tools, dryers, and vehicles to beneficiaries across the district.
In addition to these, Sampson had previously distributed over 10 vehicles to key supporters under his “He-Work-He-Chop” reward framework.
With projects spread across the 12 local government areas of Akwa Ibom South, the senator’s latest interventions signal a continued push to deepen development and expand access to opportunities for constituents.
