Mercy Akpama PhD is the representative of the Yakurr 2 State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Mercy has remained committed to the well-being of her constituents.
Her legislative agenda is centered on empowering the people, ensuring social welfare, and promoting academic excellence. From the moment she was sworn in, Mercy has prioritized open communication and accessibility, meeting with various groups to address pressing issues related to economic development, education, healthcare, and overall human capacity.
Key Areas of Focus of Hon. Mercy Akpama
1. Empowerment Programs
– Vocational training and skill acquisition programs tailored for youth, women, and persons living with disabilities.
– Entrepreneurship support and financial aid for small businesses.
– Health and wellness programs to improve access to quality healthcare.
– Financial literacy initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth within the constituency.
2. Social Welfare Initiatives
– Food security programs and nutritional support for vulnerable groups.
– Educational and childcare assistance for low-income families.
– Social protection schemes for the elderly, women, children, and people with disabilities, alongside promoting peaceful coexistence within the constituency.
– Initiatives to preserve and showcase the rich cultural heritage of Yakurr 2.
3. Awards for Academic Excellence
– Scholarship programs to reward and motivate high-achieving students.
– Recognition for academic excellence across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, with consistent payment of tuition fees and registration for national examinations such as WAEC, NECO, and JAMB.
– Mentorship programs aimed at guiding students toward academic and career success.
Notable Achievements by Hon. Mary Akpama:
– Scholarship Initiatives: Hon. Mercy Akpama awarded terminal scholarships to the top three performing pupils in each class across 53 public primary schools in Yakurr 2 during her July 2023 tour, in line with her commitment to promoting basic education.
– Empowerment Camps: She organized a 3-day “Purpose Summit” in collaboration with Interweave Solution International, USA, training 45 constituents in entrepreneurial skills. Each participant received N100,000 startup capital and a full POS outlet setup.
– Employment Facilitation: Mercy has successfully facilitated the recruitment of constituents into the Cross River State Forestry Commission, the Nigerian Police Force, and the Nigerian Army, as well as secured state appointments for both men and women.
Legislative Duties and Bills:
As the first female lawmaker in the 10th Assembly, Hon. Mercy Akpama has actively participated in the legislative process, introducing, debating, and voting on bills that address key issues facing her constituency and the state. Some of her key legislative efforts include:
– Bills Sponsored:
– Establishing a Senior Citizens’ Centre to cater to the needs of elderly residents in Cross River State.
– Promoting equal opportunities and prohibiting gender-based discrimination.
– Amending the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission law.
– Motions Co-Sponsored:
– Calling for solutions to the issues facing the College of Nursing and Midwifery Science, Ogoja.
– Advocating for the relocation of the Anti-Cult/Kidnapping Squad to a more appropriate location in Akpabuyo.
– Pushing for the completion of the Okuku-Okpoma Cum Yahe-Ebo road project.
Committee Leadership and Membership:
Hon. Akpama holds several important roles within the Assembly, including:
– Chairman, House Committee on Youth and Sports Development (2023-2024).
– Chairman, House Committee on Women’s Affairs, Social Welfare, and Gender Development (2024).
– Vice Chairman, Judiciary Public Service Matters, Public Petitions, and Conflict Resolution.
– Member of multiple other committees, including Education, Commerce, Health, and Anti-Corruption.
In her continued effort to improve the lives of her constituents, Hon. Mercy Akpama has forged partnerships with governmental and non-governmental organizations to fulfill her campaign promises.
Through her dedication, she remains committed to ensuring her programs, especially in education, social welfare, and empowerment, leave a lasting impact on Yakurr 2 State Constituency.
