By Chukwuma Umeorah

Constituents of Cross River South have lauded Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong for delivering impactful projects in his first two years at the Senate, citing improvements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment across the district.

In a statement to mark his second year in the Senate, Ekpenyong outlined key constituency achievements, including the installation of 6,870 solar-powered streetlights and the construction and rehabilitation of 19 roads across the district. Notable road projects include Ikot Nkebre Layout, Adiabo Road, Off Tinapa, and Clerk Alley Street, aimed at improving mobility and revitalising urban areas.

On healthcare, the Senator said that over 4,500 residents had been impacted through 17 medical outreaches providing access to essential health services. In the education sector, he noted that 1,700 students had benefited from the Domestic Education Support Initiative, while 31 others are currently studying abroad under the foreign scholarship programmes.

“Before now, we felt forgotten, but today, we see and feel the difference. Our children are going to better schools, our roads are passable, and opportunities are available to everyone. This is the first time in many years we feel that our voice in the Senate is strong and working for us,” said Nkese Etim, a trader in Calabar South.

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The statement also noted the establishment of two ICT-equipped schools to promote digital literacy among students, and the provision of free bus rides across 19 routes to ease transportation burdens for commuters in the district.

In terms of youth engagement and employment, he disclosed that 28 constituents had secured jobs in the Federal Public Service, with an additional 12 holding appointments within the National Assembly.

Reflecting on his tenure so far, he stated: “My primary purpose in the Senate is the accelerated development of our land and people, nothing else. We are here to serve, to build, and to ensure that no community is left behind.”

Ekpenyong, who was recently honoured with Thisday Global Leaders Award for performance in public service, also noted his participation in 17 international engagements, which according to him, had brought Cross River South into key global development conversations.