Akpabio Redeems $10,000 Pledge to Akwa Ibom Scholars
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has redeemed his pledge of $10,000 each to two outstanding scholars from Akwa Ibom State.
The beneficiaries are Uwakmfon Unwana Jacob, a 44-time gold medalist in the Mathematics Olympiad, and Dr. Joseph Peter Akpan, best graduating student in Medicine and Surgery at the University of Uyo for the 2023/2024 session.
Jacob, a student of Nile University of Nigeria, had earlier received an educational grant from the Akwa Ibom State Government. He is credited with answering 17 questions in four minutes. Dr. Akpan broke a 25-year record in the College of Medical Sciences, graduating with 10 distinctions out of 11 courses and winning 25 awards.
Akpabio had pledged the $10,000 for their living expenses during the Variety Night marking the 39th anniversary of Akwa Ibom State, in support of the state government’s gesture.
The presentation was made on Thursday night at Senator Akpabio’s residence in Uyo by Governor Umo Eno, who represented the Senate President.
Eno congratulated the awardees and thanked Akpabio for his support, saying the gesture shows that government and leaders will always support the brightest youths.
“This is to show to our young people that the State Government and our leaders will always support the brightest and the best among our youths. Let it not be said that they were hindered because of financial constraints,” the governor said.
Akpabio, in his remarks, congratulated the scholars and said the support was a pointer that excellence will be rewarded and encouraged to greater heights.
Speaking on behalf of the parents, Mr. Jacob, father of Uwakmfon, expressed gratitude to the state government and the Senate President for recognizing merit without political consideration, and promised that the scholars would remain focused and continue to make the state proud.
This was contained in a statement issued by EmemMaria Offiong, Deputy Director and Head of Information, Press and Public Relations, Office of the President of the Senate
