Godswill Akpabio is a famous Nigerian politician, lawyer,
and statesman whose career crosses governance, legislative leadership, and law.
From humble village roots in Ukana, Akwa Ibom State, to becoming one of the
most influential politicians in Nigeria today is a inspiring story of
determination, strategic thinking, and unwavering dedication to public service.
Born on December 9, 1962, in Ukana, Ikot Ntuen, Essien Udim
Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Akpabio was raised by his mother,
Madam Lucy Obot Akpabio, after the untimely passing of his father, Chief Obot
Akpabio. Unfazed by these initial setbacks, Akpabio proceeded to realize his
ambition to rise above adversity, embarking on a path that would see him reach
the height of political authority in Nigeria.
Education and Early Career
Akpabio's education began at Methodist Primary School,
Ukana, where he completed his primary education. He later attended the Federal
Government College in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, before moving to the
University of Calabar to continue with further education, from where he
graduated with a law degree. In 1988, he was called to the Nigerian Bar,
thereby beginning his legal career.
Akpabio began his early working life as a lawyer in the
leading law firm Paul Usoro & Co. His career moved in an interesting
direction when he entered the business and telecommunication sector. Akpabio
was appointed as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of EMIS
Telecoms Limited in the year 2002, where he got the scope to expand his
leadership and influence capabilities.
Entry into Politics
Akpabio's foray into politics was an organic development of
his legal and business career. In 2002, he was also appointed the Honourable
Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources in Akwa Ibom State, which put
him on his political path. His experience with the state government provided
him with some degree of exposure in government and strengthened his connection
with the people of Akwa Ibom.
His work as a commissioner also drew him to further
political appointments, and he became the Commissioner for Local Government and
Chieftaincy Affairs, and later Lands and Housing. As more and more developing
reputation of leadership qualities, Akpabio was the choice of the People's
Democratic Party (PDP) for Akwa Ibom State gubernatorial election in the year 2006.
Akpabio won in the year 2007 as governor and became Akwa Ibom State Governor
where his leadership created profound impressions.
Governorship of Akwa Ibom State
Akpabio's 2007-2015 governorship of Akwa Ibom State has been
hailed as a revolution period for the state by everyone. His administration in
Akwa Ibom saw unprecedented infrastructural growth in the form of new roads,
bridges, hospitals, and schools. Akpabio helped significantly transform the
educational sector of the state by ensuring access to good quality education
and means for youths.
His administration also focused on building a sustainable
and diversified economy with high priority placed on agriculture, tourism, and
industrialization. All of these endeavors enhanced Akwa Ibom's image in the
nation and offered its citizens means of development and growth.
Akpabio's influence within the People's Democratic Party
(PDP) also grew. In 2013, he was voted into office as Chairman of the PDP
Governors Forum, securing him a prime place in national politics. After
successfully being re-elected in 2011, Akpabio went on to mold his political
legacy further as a national name as one of the major personalities in Nigerian
politics.
Senatorial Career and Ministerial Appointment
Having completed two terms as governor, Akpabio sought a new
political experience and ran for the Senatorial seat. In 2015, he was
re-elected to the National Assembly to serve in the Akwa Ibom North-West
Senatorial District. His tenure in the Senate was marked by his being appointed
the Senate Minority Leader, where he became a vocal and respected voice in
Nigerian politics.
In 2018, Akpabio delivered a blockbuster political bombshell
by crossing over from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The
action was a dramatic moment in Nigerian politics since it highlighted his
ability to weather and thrive under a competitive and changing political
environment. In 2019, he was made Minister of Niger Delta Affairs in the
government of President Muhammadu Buhari, where he handled matters concerning
the development of the Niger Delta.
Akpabio returned to the Senate in 2023, having been
re-elected to represent Akwa Ibom North-West. His return to the legislative
chamber was the next step in his career, and in June 2023, he was elected President
of the Nigerian Senate, one of the most senior political positions in the
country.
Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Other than politics, Godswill Akpabio is a family man. He is
married to Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, and together they have five children:
four daughters and a son. Akpabio has, on numerous occasions, expressed his
dedication to family, and his wife, Ekaette, is famous for her involvement in
philanthropic activities as well as community development projects.
Though his political life has been quite open, he also
values his personal life highly and is very close to his family. His wife,
Ekaette Unoma, has been a pillar of strength, and both have worked together on
a lot of ventures, particularly in the area of women's empowerment and welfare.
Net Worth
When it comes to Godswill Akpabio's net worth, there has
been much speculation. Given his extensive career in both the private and
public sectors, it is clear that Akpabio has enjoyed significant financial
success. However, the exact figure of his net worth remains elusive as public
financial disclosures are often not fully detailed in Nigeria.
In addition to his political salary, Akpabio's wealth can be
attributed to his past business ventures, especially in the telecommunications
and real estate sectors. He has invested in various industries, which has
further boosted his financial standing.
It is important to note that any discussion about his net
worth should be approached with caution, as the numbers often circulating in
the media are speculative and not verified.
Conclusion
Godswill Akpabio’s rise to prominence in Nigerian politics
is a testament to his resilience, leadership, and dedication. From his early
life in Akwa Ibom State to his roles as Governor, Senator, and Senate President,
Akpabio has made a significant mark on Nigeria's political landscape. His focus
on infrastructure, governance, and human development has set him apart as one
of Nigeria's most influential politicians.
As he continues to shape the future of the country through
his leadership in the Senate, Akpabio's legacy is one of lasting influence,
public service, and tireless work for the development of both his state and the
nation at large. His story is an inspiring reminder that with hard work and
determination, anyone can overcome obstacles and make a meaningful impact in
society.
