C’River Senator Unveils Extensive Two-Year Development Report, Highlights Grassroots Impact

Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, representing the Cross River South Senatorial District, has released a comprehensive two-year report detailing a wide array of projects and initiatives undertaken during his tenure in the Nigerian Senate. The report emphasizes a dedicated focus on community-level development, spanning infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic empowerment across his constituency.

The Senator’s office highlighted significant progress in infrastructure development, with the installation of over 6,870 solar-powered streetlights in previously unlit areas. This initiative, according to the report, has not only enhanced safety but also stimulated night-time economic activities within affected communities. Additionally, a total of 19 roads have been either newly constructed (11) or rehabilitated (8), including key arteries like Ikot Nkebre Layout, Adiabo Road off Tinapa, and Clerk Alley Street. These road projects are aimed at improving connectivity, easing transportation burdens, and fostering local market access.

In the realm of healthcare, Senator Ekpenyong’s report details 17 medical outreach programs that have provided essential health services to 4,422 residents. Many beneficiaries of these outreaches were reported to be accessing medical care for the first time, underscoring the impact of these interventions in underserved areas.

Education has also been a major focus, with the implementation of a Domestic Education Support Initiative benefiting 1,700 students. Furthermore, the Senator has facilitated foreign scholarships for 31 students from the district, enabling them to pursue higher education abroad. The report also notes the establishment of two new schools equipped with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) facilities, aimed at enhancing digital literacy and educational standards.

On the employment and empowerment front, the report states that 28 constituents have secured employment in the Federal Public Service, while an additional 12 individuals have gained appointments within the National Assembly. To alleviate daily commuting costs for residents, a free transport scheme covering 19 routes has also been introduced.

Beyond local projects, Senator Ekpenyong’s engagement on the international stage was also highlighted, with his participation in 17 international forums. These engagements, his office stated, are geared towards positioning Cross River South within global development dialogues and attracting further opportunities. His commitment to public service has also earned him recognition, including the recent This Day Global Leaders Award.

Constituents have reportedly expressed positive sentiments regarding the visible impact of these projects. Mrs. Nkese Etim, a trader in Calabar South, was quoted as saying, “We see and feel the difference better schools, safer streets, and more opportunities for our children.”

In a statement regarding the report, Senator Ekpenyong reaffirmed his core mission in the Senate. “My primary purpose in the Senate is the accelerated development of our land and people  nothing else,” he stated. He further emphasized his unwavering commitment to serving and building, ensuring that no community within his senatorial district is left behind in the pursuit of progress and prosperity.