Akpabio Hails Tinubu, Eno Over New Federal University in Akwa Ibom

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology in Obio Akpa, Oruk Anam Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

Akpabio also praised Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno for releasing the Obio Akpa campus of the Akwa Ibom State University to facilitate the immediate take-off of the new federal institution.

The Senate President spoke on Friday at the funeral service of a former Majority Leader of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, the late Hon. (Elder) Imo Akpan Ibokette.

In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, Akpabio expressed optimism that the university would admit its first batch of students soon.

“I look forward to the admission of the first batch of the students into the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology in this Senatorial District,” he said.

Akpabio thanked President Tinubu for signing the bill establishing the university, describing the development as significant for the people of the senatorial district and the state.

He equally appreciated Governor Eno for releasing a campus of the state-owned university to enable the new institution commence academic activities this year.

Akpabio Mourns Late Ibokette

The Senate President described the late Ibokette, whose funeral was held at the Abak International Nursery/Primary School in Abak Local Government Area, as a patriot, selfless leader, loving father and hardworking personality.

The funeral service was conducted by The Apostolic Church Nigeria.

Akpabio recalled that Ibokette was among the first people to contact him and express appreciation after the passage of the legislation establishing the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology.

“Late Ibokette we are laying to rest today, was the first to call and thank me on hearing of the passage of the bill establishing the University. His death is a personal loss to me,” Akpabio said.

He noted that his relationship with the Ibokette family had endured for decades, transcending political differences.

“The Ibokette’s family and I share an intimate affinity that spans decades. Even the weight of political differences did not attenuate the relationship we shared. So, I personally mourn his demise,” he added.

Akpabio said the late lawmaker lived a life of service and perseverance, adding that he had worked and fought for the transformation he witnessed before his death.

“He did his best and witnessed the uncommon transformation which he fought and worked for before his departure,” the Senate President said.

The establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology is expected to expand access to tertiary education in the area while strengthening academic and research opportunities in agriculture, technology and related fields.