Comr John R. Ayang

The demands and voice of the people must be respected

The killing by SPFL truck drivers is really getting out of hands and Something meaningful must be done before the youths of the LGA decides what to do on their own because I will be fully involved.

For crying out loud, what is our offense?

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OUR FUTURE IS NOW: IKOT ABASI MUST UNITE TO PROTECT AND EXPAND OUR GAINS

To the resilient and forward-looking people of Ikot Abasi Local Government Area—our youths, elders, business community, workers, and residents (both indigenes and non-indigenes alike)—this is a defining moment in our collective history.

Ikot Abasi today stands as one of the most strategically positioned economic corridors in Akwa Ibom State. What we are witnessing is not accidental progress; it is the product of deliberate policy direction, effective political alignment, and purposeful leadership.

At the forefront of this transformation is the synergy between our local leadership—ably driven by Obong Nsima Udo Ekere and coordinated by Engr. Uwem Stephen Okoko, FNSE—and the national leadership under Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This alignment has unlocked unprecedented federal attention and developmental inflows into our land.

The establishment of the Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi (FUTIA) remains a landmark achievement. Beyond academics, FUTIA is an economic engine—stimulating housing, commerce, innovation, and employment. With improved digital access and connectivity platforms (including initiatives such as Netfun), students now enjoy enhanced learning environments, access to global resources, and technology-driven education.

Crucially, the introduction of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has provided a structured student loan scheme, ensuring that financial constraints no longer stand as barriers to higher education. This intervention is already empowering thousands of Nigerian students to pursue their academic ambitions with dignity and support.

Equally significant is the stability recorded in the university system. Since the assumption of office by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria has experienced a notable absence of prolonged ASUU strikes—an achievement that has restored academic certainty, protected students’ time, and improved confidence in the nation’s education sector.

In parallel, the operational take-off of Sterling Global Petrochemical and Fertilizer Limited (SPFL) has accelerated industrialization in Ikot Abasi. The company has created massive employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled labour, boosting local businesses and strengthening economic activity across our communities.

We must also intensify advocacy for the full revitalization of the Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria (ALSCON). A functional ALSCON will firmly position Ikot Abasi as a major industrial hub in Nigeria and the West African sub-region.

At the national level, the impact of this administration is far-reaching:

The Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway stands as a historic infrastructure project—poised to unlock massive economic opportunities, attract investments, and connect coastal economies, including our region.

The Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway underscores a bold vision for national integration and trade expansion.

The introduction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative fuel is providing cost-effective energy options.

Technical education reforms are making skill acquisition more accessible across the country.

Youth empowerment initiatives are equipping millions with practical skills and startup support.

Healthcare interventions have reduced the cost of critical diagnostics, including kidney-related treatments.

Renewed efforts toward reviving Ajaokuta Steel Company signal industrial rebirth.

Improvements in electricity supply are strengthening productivity and economic activity.

Strategic economic management has enhanced national reserves and fiscal stability.

Regional development commissions, including those for the South East and South South, are driving inclusive growth.

Local Government Autonomy reforms are deepening grassroots governance.

These are not abstract policies—they are measurable interventions shaping lives and livelihoods.

For Ikot Abasi, the message is clear: political alignment has delivered results, and continuity will sustain them.

We must not forget the lessons of history. The loss of key institutions in the past due to political misalignment serves as a cautionary tale. We cannot afford to repeat such setbacks.

Therefore, I call on all residents of Ikot Abasi—indigenes and non-indigenes, especially those who have found economic opportunity here—to take civic responsibility seriously:

Obtain your Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs)

Participate actively in the democratic process

Support the continuity of the All Progressives Congress (APC)

By doing so, we will:

1. Sustain and expand FUTIA’s growth and global relevance

2. Strengthen SPFL’s operations and job creation capacity

3. Secure federal commitment to ALSCON’s revival

4. Position Ikot Abasi as a permanent fixture in Nigeria’s economic architecture

To the students of FUTIA in particular: this institution is a product of visionary leadership and political will. The improved learning environment, access to student loans, digital support systems, and uninterrupted academic calendar are benefits that must be protected and sustained.

This is not merely about politics—it is about economic stability, educational advancement, and generational prosperity.

Let us unite.
Let us protect our gains.
Let us secure our future through continuity.

Ikot Abasi must speak with one voice.
Ikot Abasi must vote with purpose.
Ikot Abasi must consolidate progress.

Signed:
Hon. John Ayang
Chapter Coordinator, City Boy Movement (CBM),
Ikot Abasi LGA.