By Ovat Lawrence
In a sustained demonstration of compassion and people-focused leadership, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Hon. Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo, KSM, has awarded bursaries to 250 students across various tertiary institutions under the second edition of the Johnson Ebokpo Bursary Scheme.
The empowerment programme, held over the weekend in Obubra Local Government Area, also featured the distribution of household items, cash support and other palliatives to 55 widows, as well as the provision of mechanised farming inputs to 14 rice-producing communities in the area.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Ebokpo expressed profound gratitude to God for His guidance and sustenance, while appreciating His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for the opportunity to serve and positively impact lives.
The Commissioner also extended appreciation to the First Lady, Bishop Mrs. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu for serving as a model through her numerous humanity programmes.
He prayed for sustained grace to continue serving the people of Obubra and commended the event’s planning committee led by Dr. Cletus Omono and Hon. Solomon Ekam for their effective coordination of the programme.
Community members and beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the Commissioner’s generosity, offering prayers for divine reward and greater accomplishments in his service to humanity.
Representing the Traditional Rulers’ Council, HRH Ovat Bob Mbina Mbina Ajom III described the empowerment initiative as epoch-making, noting that despite being an appointee, Hon. Ebokpo has surpassed the achievements of many elected officeholders. He prayed for expanded opportunities for the Commissioner to further impact society.
In separate remarks, Mr. Albert Ovat, President of Federation of Obubra students Association worldwide (FOSA WW), and Comr. Ndoghi Ogidi, President of NACRIS UNICAL Chapter, both commended the Commissioner’s consistent benevolence, called for greater responsibilities to be entrusted to the Honourable Commissioner
A major highlight of the event was the defection of Comrade Eno David, PDP Ward Chairman of Ofumbongha-Yala, alongside several supporters, who attributed their decision to the Commissioner’s people-oriented initiatives. Comrade Eno thanked Hon. Ebokpo for his generosity and prayed for sustained grace in his leadership journey.
The programme was further enlivened by cultural performances, including the Eweweh dance from Ofumbongha Number 3, Ekana dance from Ovonum, Ntime and Idang dance from Ogada communities.
The event attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including traditional rulers, university dons, captains of industry, and party supporters from both state and local government levels.
