1,032 Students Benefit From Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong’s Education Intervention

By Kelvin Ololo

The Senator representing Cross River South Senatorial District, Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong, has empowered 1,032 undergraduate and postgraduate students with ₦110,000 each, reaffirming his long-standing commitment to education as a tool for social mobility and regional development.

The education support scheme was delivered through the 4th edition of the Asuquo Ekpenyong Foundation (AEF) on February 1, 2026, in Calabar. The intervention is aimed at easing financial barriers to education and expanding access for students across the senatorial zone.

Students , Educators and beneficiaries drawn from the seven local government areas of the district, saw a charged atmosphere chanting solidarity songs as applause rained in the air for the benefactor – Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr. The initiative is said to align with Governor Bassey Otu’s “People First” agenda and President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, which they described as people-centered and inclusive.

In separate testimonies, beneficiaries described the initiative as credible and consistent, noting that many students had benefited across multiple editions.

They commended Senator Ekpenyong for ensuring equitable distribution of funds across all seven local government areas, describing the process as transparent and reflective of accountable leadership.

Comrade Ewelu Ewelu, the Postgraduate Students’ President of the University of Cross River State, expressed profound gratitude to the Senator, describing his intervention as “legendary” and impactful in easing the financial burden faced by students.

Several beneficiaries also shared their appreciation. Esther Ekpenyong thanked the Senator for his consistent commitment to education, while Rufus Ogar described the support as timely and life-changing.

Addressing the students, Senator Ekpenyong stressed the centrality of education to personal growth and societal stability. “Education is the greatest gift one can give to anybody.”

He urged beneficiaries to remain focused, stay in school, and complete their studies successfully, assuring them that the intervention was driven by conviction rather than politics.

“We are not doing this for campaign nor for election. I believe in education. It’s very disheartening that a man is ready to learn but limited by finances or resources. If you need support for education, I will always be there.”

The Senator further reflected on his personal journey, attributing his achievements to the education provided by his parents. He described it as a grave social tragedy when willing and capable young people are denied education due to lack of resources, warning of the broader consequences for the society. “An undeveloped young person is a ticking time bomb.”

He emphasized that education empowers individuals to unlock prosperity for themselves, their families, and their communities, noting that his advocacy for education predates politics and remains a personal mission.

As the 2027 general elections draws near, students were encouraged to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and actively participate in the democratic process by electing credible representatives.

The education funding covered students from Biase, Akamkpa, Odukpani, Calabar Municipality, Calabar South, Akpabuyo, and Bakassi. Beneficiaries had previously registered online, with accounts created for them through partnering financial institutions, and were assured that payment alerts would be received shortly.

Senator Ekpenyong was accompanied by the Chairman of the Carnival Commission, Mr. Effiong Ekpenyong, the Director-General of the Asuquo Ekpenyong Foundation, Hon. Edet Oqua, and other dignitaries.

The event concluded with the presentation of a plaque and awards to the senator in recognition of his contributions to education and youth development.