Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong

In Cross River State and across Nigeria, a new vista has emerged. What many now call the “New Order” is being championed by a youthful command that is vibrant, dynamic, focused, determined, and intentional. That command is embodied by Distinguished Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, representing Cross River South in the 10th Nigerian Senate.

Senator Ekpenyong is a voice for inclusive politics. With poise and brilliance, he is committed to youth-driven, progressive ideals that put people first. As the youngest Senator in the 10th Senate, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong has proven that Nigerian youths are not limited by capacity, only by opportunity. When given the chance, they perform excellently and bridge the leadership gaps that have long defined our system.

From his infrastructural strides to community development, healthcare, human capital development, economic empowerment, agriculture, humanity, and legislative impacts, the leadership of Distinguished Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong has transcended to the ordinary constituents on whose mandate he holds office. Dozens of young Cross Riverians have secured employment in key Federal Government agencies through him. This is an unprecedented record of service.

His infrastructural presence is felt across the Senatorial District. Ranging from the facilitation of the construction and rehabilitation of key roads across Cross River South, to the lightening up of communities with solar street lights, improving security and extending business hours for small enterprises. His intervention on the failed sections of the Odukpani–Okomita–Uyangha and Iwuru–Ehom axis of the Ikom–Calabar Highway, done through the NDDC through him with a collaborative effort of the Cross River State's Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, is a landmark achievement. For decades, that road was a death trap. Today, relief has come.

Also, through over 5 free medical outreaches, thousands of constituents have received life-saving care. His Annual Education Support Initiative, now in its 5th edition, has benefited more than 10,000 students of Cross River South. Beyond that, he has facilitated foreign scholarships for sons and daughters of Cross River South, opening global doors for local talent and positioning them to compete on the world stage.

Most benefiting to the ordinary Cross Riverian is his free bus transport scheme across the six LGAs of Cross River South, offering daily relief to ordinary constituents who depend on it for trade, school, and healthcare. He has also facilitated over 15 business and agricultural support grants to boost productivity for traders and farmers, directly strengthening household incomes and food security.

As a first-term Senator, he has sponsored over 22 bills, including the Bill for the Establishment of the South South Development Commission. He has moved 8 critical motions, including the motion to investigate the slow pace of work on the Odukpani–Calabar–Itu Highway, which has spurred decisive action from relevant authorities. With over 30 legislative interventions across security and justice, regional development, youth and social issues, economic growth, healthcare, and environmental protection, his record speaks volumes.

In Akamkpa/Biase where I come from, Senator Ekpenyong’s impact is visible and effective. The ongoing rehabilitation of failed sections of the Oban–Ekang Federal Highway in Akamkpa by FERMA, under his constituency projects, reflects a promise made and a promise kept. It is evidence of representation anchored on results.

His first infrastructural project upon assumption of office was in my Biase Local Government Area - the NITDA Digital Training Centre at Community Secondary School, Ehom. That project is already bridging the digital divide for rural students. He has also facilitated the award of key roads through the NDDC, including the Okurike–Agwagune–Ikun Road. Several Biase communities now enjoy solar lighting, while sons and daughters of Biase have received jobs, educational support, and foreign scholarships that have altered the fortunes of families.

Like Oliver Twist, we will always ask for more. Yet we must admit that Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong has done more for our people than many before him. He is not a regular Senator. He came prepared for leadership, equipped with vision, passion, competence, and empathy. Little wonder he is called ‘The Standard’. Youthful. Useful. Visionary. His continuity represents our collective hope and shared prosperity, especially for young people who now believe that governance can truly work.

SUKI is the Leader of the New Order. The New Vista.