Senator Launches N100 Million Endowment Fund to Bolster APC in Akwa Ibom South
Senator Ekong Sampson, representing the Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, has unveiled ambitious plans to establish a N100 million endowment fund for the All Progressives Congress (APC) within his senatorial district. This significant financial commitment comes just two months after the Senator initiated a N100 million empowerment grant program that benefited 500 students and several teachers across Akwa Ibom South.
Speaking with journalists in Uyo, Senator Sampson articulated that this proposed intervention is designed to offer substantial support to party members, thereby reinforcing their belief in the democratic process in the region.
Senator Sampson, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, joined the APC earlier this year. His transition to the party followed the defection of the State Governor, Umo Eno, from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.
The Senator explained that the endowment fund, slated for launch next year, is not an unprecedented initiative for him. He previously established a similar fund for the PDP in his home Local Government Area, Mkpat-Enin. This past endeavor was driven by a recognition of the challenges faced by some party members, who required assistance with social, health, and entrepreneurial needs.
“I am supporting the APC and, by extension, democracy in Akwa Ibom South. This is a tradition,” Senator Sampson stated. “Some years ago, I instituted an endowment fund for the PDP in Mkpat-Enin LGA, where I come from, because I discovered that some members of the party were helpless and needed some intervention in terms of social, health, and even business needs.”
He elaborated on the concept behind such funds: “I felt that the party needed to have a pool, well-managed, where it could draw some sort of support in education and health. So, I am not doing something new. The endowment fund for the APC in the Akwa Ibom South senatorial district is conceptualized to provide layers of interventions for APC members in the area and make the party even more attractive because politics is about making the space attractive.”
Beyond financial support for party members, Senator Sampson also revealed his commitment to strengthening the party’s physical infrastructure. He has directed efforts to secure more comfortable and permanent accommodation for the APC in Mkpat-Enin LGA, emphasizing that a party of the APC’s stature deserves a dedicated, permanent party office.
The Senator, a firm believer in adding value through his actions, indicated that constituents can anticipate further interventions in the coming months. He revealed that over 1,000 motorcycles, vehicles, and engine boats have already been procured and are ready for distribution to the constituents.
In a demonstration of his commitment to his constituents, Senator Sampson had earlier in the day visited the traditional council of Mkpat-Enin LGA. During this visit, he made a significant donation, including 90 bags of rice, a vehicle, and N2 million in cash.
These initiatives underscore Senator Ekong Sampson’s multifaceted approach to constituency representation and party development, focusing on both the welfare of individual members and the broader strengthening of democratic structures within Akwa Ibom South. His strategic investments aim to foster loyalty, enhance the party’s appeal, and provide tangible benefits to the people he serves.
