By: Ola Okunola – Political Analyst.
The Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of the Special Committees of the 10th Senate.
It was no surprise that the amiable, young, vibrant Senator representing Cross River Southern Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong was named the Vice Chairman Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence.
The appointment was a testament to the commitment, dedication, and willingness to serve, qualities that can be found in abundance in the young, distinguished Senator. It was not a coincidence that the first motion of the 10th Assembly was moved by the amiable Senator. His penchant for excellence and hard work were quickly spotted by the leadership of the Senate, which prompted his appointments as the vice chairman of Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence.
Senator Ekpenyong has a track record for hard work, dedication, and above a goal getter.
He served as a two-time Commissioner for Finance, Cross River State, where he distinguished himself. Under his guidance, Cross River State was ranked 4th in the 2022 Fiscal Performance Ranking. In the 2022 State of States report using certain data criteria, Cross River State was only behind Rivers, Kaduna, and Lagos States.
This is a testament to the input and contribution of Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong while he was in the office.
In a similar vein, he served as the Chairman of the State Fiscal Transparency Accountability and Sustainability Program for Results (SFTAS PforR), an initiative of the World Bank and Federal Government of Nigeria. His leadership skills propelled the state to attainments of many of the Disbursement Link Indicators and subsequently qualified the State to receive several millions of dollars in grants as a reward for outstanding performance.
Distinguished Senator Ekpenyong is determined to bring youthful energy, vibrancy, and innovation to the 10th Senate. His representation will surely bring dividends of democracy to his people.
In conclusion, SAE represents hope for the young generation in Cross River State and Nigeria as a whole, and he will continue to serve as a role model to many young Nigerians.
It is my belief that this appointment is a tip of the iceberg, and many similar assignments will definitely follow.