
…A Look into the Journey and Achievements of Senator Akpabio, Akwa Ibom’s Resilient Leader
In a riveting display of political prowess, Senator Godswill Akpabio has emerged as the Senate President of the 10th Assembly, defeating his closest rival, Senator Abdulazeez Yari from Zamfara state. The election results revealed a clear mandate, with Senator Akpabio securing 63 votes against Senator Yari’s 46 votes. This victory positions Senator Akpabio as a key figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, bringing his wealth of experience and leadership to the forefront.
Here are 8 important things to know about Senator Akpabio:
1. Roots and Education: Hailing from Ikot Ntuen in Essien Udim Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akpabio holds a degree in Law from the University of Calabar, Cross River State.
2. Ministerial Role: From 2019 to 2022, Akpabio served as the Minister for Niger Delta Affairs under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. His tenure witnessed notable strides in infrastructure development and community empowerment in the Niger Delta region.
3. Governorship Stint: Prior to his ministerial role, Senator Akpabio served as the governor of Akwa Ibom State from 2007 to 2015, leaving a lasting impact through various developmental projects and policy reforms.
4. Telecommunications Background: Before entering politics, Senator Akpabio worked with EMIS Telecoms Limited, a prominent wireless telecommunications company in Lagos. He later became the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the company in 2002.
5. Association of Telecommunication Companies: Notably, Akpabio held the position of National Publicity Secretary of the Association of Telecommunication Companies in Nigeria (ATCOM) while serving as a director at EMIS.
6. Commissioner Roles: In 2002, Akpabio was appointed Honourable Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources by Governor Obong Victor Attah in Akwa Ibom State. He subsequently served as a Commissioner in three key ministries: Petroleum and Natural Resources, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, as well as Lands and Housing between 2002 and 2006.
7. Senate Minority Leader: During his tenure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Akpabio was nominated for the position of the Senate Minority Leader by the South-South caucus of the PDP. This nomination was ratified by the caucus of the PDP in the Senate, and he was announced as the Senate Minority Leader on 28 July 2015 by the Senate President.
8. Presidential Aspirations: In June 2022, Akpabio resigned from his position as Minister for Niger Delta Affairs to contest in the presidential primaries of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). However, he selflessly stepped down on the night of the primaries, gracefully yielding to the eventual winner, President Bola Tinubu.
Senator Akpabio’s ascension to the position of Senate President ushers in a new era of leadership and experience. His track record of transformative governance in Akwa Ibom State, coupled with his ministerial experience, positions him as a seasoned statesman ready to tackle Nigeria’s pressing challenges.
As the nation turns its attention to the 10th Assembly, the Nigerian political landscape is set to witness the dynamic and influential leadership of Senator Akpabio. His vision for a prosperous and united Nigeria, driven by sustainable development and inclusive governance, resonates strongly with both politicians and citizens alike.
Nigeria eagerly awaits the impact and contributions of Senator Godswill Akpabio as he assumes the esteemed position of Senate President. With his wealth of experience and commitment to progress, a new chapter begins in Nigeria’s political narrative.


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