Jubilation Across Etung as Evang. Kingsley Isong Offers Free Transport Services to Students Returning to Calabar
By Erim Smith – Calabar
In a display of empathy and commitment to the welfare of his constituents, the Member representing Etung State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Evang. (Ntufam) (Hon.) Kingsley Ntui Isong, has extended a helping hand to ease the financial burden on students returning to their institutions in Calabar after the Christmas holiday.
This gesture comes amid the lingering economic challenges posed by the removal of petroleum subsidy by the Federal Government in 2023.
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The lawmaker, known for his consistent efforts to uplift his people, provided free transportation services for over 60 Etung students, sparking jubilation among parents, students, and community leaders; a generous act that underscores his commitment to education and resolve to mitigate the impact of rising transportation costs on his constituents.
Evang. Kingsley Isong had earlier announced, through Comrade Anthony Bisong Attah, his intention to provide free transport services in light of the surging costs of living. The announcement detailed that buses would be available for students on Friday, January 17, and Sunday, January 19, 2025, with the Senator Victor Ndoma Egba Motor Park in Ikom serving as the designated departure point.
True to his word, buses were stationed at the park to ferry the students to Calabar at no cost; eliciting widespread relief and gratitude, as many families have been grappling with increased transportation expenses due to the prevailing economic realities.
Reports confirmed that all buses arrived safely in Calabar, with students reaching their destinations without any incidents, which he attributed to divine intervention, while thanking God for granting them journey mercies.
Speaking to reporters, several beneficiaries of the initiative expressed heartfelt gratitude to the lawmaker. For many, this was a much-needed reprieve during a challenging time.
“Hon. Ntui has shown that he genuinely cares for us. This is not the first time he’s coming through for students, and we deeply appreciate his efforts,” said one of the students, Jennifer Ntui, a second-year student of the University of Calabar.
Parents also commended the lawmaker for his foresight and sensitivity. “In a time when many leaders are detached from the struggles of the common man, Evang. Ntui stands out as a beacon of hope for the people of Etung,” remarked Ntufam Collins Erim, a community elder.
In a brief statement, Evang. Ntui reiterated his commitment to serving his constituents.
“Education is the foundation of development, and I am committed to supporting our students in every way possible. This is a small gesture, but I hope it reminds our young people that they are not alone,” he said.
This latest gesture adds to the growing list of the lawmaker’s people-oriented initiatives. Since assuming office, he has consistently prioritized education, youth empowerment, and community development. His Mini Agro Empowerment Programme for cocoa farmers in Etung have earned him accolades across the constituency.
As the news of this initiative spreads, many have called on other political leaders to emulate the lawmaker’s example by implementing policies and programs that directly benefit the people. For the students and families of Etung, however, this is more than just an act of kindness; it is a performance indicator to what leadership should embody.
