Abasi-Abasi Educational Support Foundation Launches Lifeline for Students in Akpabuyo and Ikang communities of Bakassi.
Ikot Nakanda, Akpabuyo – April 6, 2025
History was made yesterday as Hon. Bassey Effiong Bassey, the visionary legislator representing Akpabuyo State Constituency, launched the groundbreaking Abasi-Abasi Educational Support Foundation in an electrifying ceremony that has set a new standard for youth empowerment in Cross River State.
This initiative builds on Hon. Bassey’s broader commitment to education, which has already led to the renovation of classroom blocks, the provision of boreholes, and the development of essential educational infrastructure across Akpabuyo and some communities in Bakassi LGA. Some of these projects, according to the lawmaker, were executed in partnership with SUBEB, while others were personally funded to address urgent community needs. While presenting his scorecard, he highlighted his frequent financial support to constituents and his role in facilitating the employment of 16 Akpabuyo indigenes in the civil service , Some of the beneficiaries of the educational support award are part of those he facilitated admission for them in University of Calabar and College of Nursing.— which, unlike other politicians, he refused to make news of.
The Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Dr. Patrick Ene Okon, officially declared the event open. He lauded Hon. Bassey Effiong Bassey for his foresight and people-centered leadership, describing the initiative as bold and commendable. He emphasized that, rather than offering short-term gestures, Hon. Bassey’s investment in education will create a lasting legacy. He advised the beneficiaries to take their studies seriously and make the most of the opportunity provided to them.
Hon. Bassey, visibly moved by the occasion, expressed profound gratitude to the people of Akpabuyo for their steadfast support throughout his political journey. He extended special appreciation to His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State, for his fatherly love and unwavering commitment to grassroots development. He described the Governor as a stabilizing force whose policies have brought developments to Cross River State, peace, security and renewed hope to Akpabuyo. He also appreciated Her Excellency, the wife of the Governor, for her motherly care and unrelenting support for the educational advancement and wellbeing of the people of Akpabuyo. Additionally, he commended the Executive Chairman of Akpabuyo Local Government Area for his steadfast dedication to the development of the area
The foundation’s inaugural disbursement empowered 69 students, with 28 secondary school pupils receiving ₦50,000 each and 41 tertiary students granted ₦100,000 each. These funds, delivered instantly via bank transfers, are not a one-off payment but a commitment to sustain support for the students throughout their years in school, eliminating financial barriers to their academic success.
Mr. Michael Ita, the Foundation’s Coordinator, explained that beneficiaries were selected through a rigorous and fair process. Three students from each of Akpabuyo’s 10 Wards, along with three communities from Bakassi LGA — specifically Ikang South, Ikang Central, and Ikang North (formerly part of Akpabuyo, now Bakassi Local Government Area) — were chosen. All recipients are indigene and , currently enrolled in accredited secondary or tertiary institutions, and selected based on financial need.
The event was graced by a host of distinguished dignitaries who expressed strong support for the foundation. Etubom Architect Eyo Ndem, hailed the initiative as a blessing to the younger generation. He urged other political actors to emulate Hon. Bassey’s leadership style and reaffirmed his confidence in the lawmaker’s commitment to genuine service.
Pastor (Barr.) RoseMary Archibong, a respected figure in the community, commended Hon. Bassey for his continuous investment in education and youth empowerment. Prof. Francisca Bassey, Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), praised the consistent educational investments being made and encouraged sustained efforts toward student empowerment.
Also present were Dr. Bong Duke, Vice Chairman of the State Planning Commission, who described the foundation as a prime example of leadership in action; and Mrs. Ann Esessien, the State Auditor General, who applauded Hon. Bassey’s unwavering focus on youth development. Apostle Ita Edet, Field Superintendent of the Akpabuyo Apostolic Church, offered prayers for the success of the foundation and its beneficiaries.
Other notable attendees included Dr. Emmanuel Duke, Hon. Dr. Effiom Okokon, Chief Eyo Ephraim, the Community Relations Officer of Akpabuyo LGA, Mr Eke Nyong, the secretary of the Abasi Abasi Educational support Award Central planning Committee and Mr. Mike Nsan, Director General of the Southern Homeland Security, also lent his voice in support, highlighting the crucial connection between educational advancement and community security.
With the successful launch of the Abasi-Abasi Educational Support Foundation, Hon. Bassey Effiong Bassey has once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the people of Akpabuyo — providing a lifeline for students and inspiring a new wave of hope and opportunity across the Constituency.
