Birthday of Giving: Dr. Edidiong Essien Puts Smiles on Pupils' Faces at Akpa Utong

St. Peter's RCM Primary School, Akpa Utong, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, was agog on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, as the Secretary of Council, Dr. Edidiong Essien, distributed over 250 back-to-school materials to pupils as part of activities marking his 2026 birthday.

The intervention reflected Dr. Essien's commitment to giving back to his roots and supporting the educational development of children. For the Council Secretary, the gesture was inspired by the legacy of his parents, who were teachers, and his desire to contribute to preparing the younger generation for a brighter future.

“It is not a show-off; it is about giving back to one's root and ensuring that the younger generation is properly modelled and structured for greatness,” he said. He urged the pupils to remain resilient, focused and determined, assuring them that they could achieve their aspirations through commitment and hard work.

Setting the tone for the event, the Ward Councillor, Hon. Ibanga Udo, described the initiative as an investment in the future of the beneficiaries. The Deputy Leader of the Legislature, Hon. Idongesit Micah Eno, described the Council Secretary as a “square peg in a square hole,” noting that he had justified the confidence reposed in him within the administrative structure of the Council.

In his goodwill message, the Paramount Ruler of Ibesikpo Asutan, HRM Edidem Francis Clement Ekpenyong III, commended Dr. Essien for extending his humanitarian gesture to his community, describing the initiative as unprecedented. The royal father also appreciated the Executive Chairman, Rt. Hon. Evangelist Edidiong Joseph Inyang, for appointing Dr. Essien as Secretary of Council, noting that the appointment had brought honour and dignity to Akpa Utong, and acknowledged the Council administration's contributions to the community, including the provision of electricity.

Royal honour for the Chairman. An unexpected highlight of the event was the conferment of the chieftaincy title “Otuekong Ibesikpo Asutan” on the Executive Chairman by the Paramount Ruler, in recognition of his commitment to the service of humanity. In response, the Chairman thanked the Paramount Ruler and the people of Akpa Utong for the honour, describing it as a morale booster to do more.

The Chairman praised Dr. Essien for remembering his roots and investing in the lives of the children. “I have seen a young man who has reflected true followership in his character in the person of Dr. Edidiong Essien. Edidiong Essien is a loyal servant. I have not regretted the day I made his choice. He has a gift of giving. To all the beneficiaries, be rest assured that blessing has come to Akpa Utong,” the Chairman said.

He expressed appreciation to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, for his support for the administration and promised that a modern convenience facility would be constructed at the school.

The event climaxed with the presentation of the educational materials to the pupils, led by the Executive Chairman and the Vice Chairman, Hon. Mrs. Goodness Emmanuel Obot, amid jubilation from parents, teachers and community members. In her vote of thanks, the Head Teacher, Mrs. Julie Essien, expressed appreciation to Dr. Essien for supporting the pupils and assured that the teachers would continue to provide quality instruction and guidance.