By Patrick Titus, Uyo
The Chairman of Essien Udim Local Government Area, Mr. Ntiedo Effiong Usoro, has said that his administration has restored electricity at the council secretariat, thus linking the place to the national grid after several months of blackout.
Usoro said his administration has also expanded healthcare access and embarked on market infrastructure projects as part of efforts to improve residents’ welfare.
He spoke while listing out his scorecards as Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Akwa Ibom State Council 2026 Press Week Committee, led by its chairman, Comrade Gideon Ekere, visited the council secretariat in Afaha Ikot Ebak on Friday.
The chairman listed the construction of a 1.2-kilometre entrance road to the council headquarters, reconnection of the secretariat to the national grid, digitalisation of council offices and grading of rural roads among the administration’s interventions.
He also mentioned that the council had commenced the construction of 500 open market stalls at Ikpe Annang Market, renovated the Chief Godswill Akpabio Unity Hall and organised free medical outreach services for residents.
On security, Usoro said the local government had witnessed improved peace and stability, attributing the development to better relationships among residents and political stakeholders.
He noted that political divisions were gradually giving way to greater unity, expressing optimism that the improved atmosphere would support social and economic development.
The chairman also assured the visiting journalists of adequate security and logistical support throughout the 2026 NUJ Press Week activities scheduled to begin in Essien Udim on November 29.
Usoro described the choice of Essien Udim for the opening thanksgiving service as an honour to the area, which is the home of the President of the Senate and one of Akwa Ibom State’s border local government areas.
He pledged to participate actively in the programme and commended the committee for bringing the opening thanksgiving to the area.
Earlier, the NUJ Press Week Committee Chairman, Comrade Gideon Ekere, thanked Usoro for receiving the delegation and briefed him on the activities lined up for the annual event. He solicited the council’s cooperation and support for a successful programme.
The 2026 NUJ Press Week will begin on Sunday, November 29, with a thanksgiving service at St. Lucy Catholic Church, Ukana Ikot Ntuen, Essien Udim, bringing journalists and other stakeholders together for a week of activities.
