MIDTERM: REP. IME OKON ATTRACTS OVER N1.7 BILLION PROJECTS TO CONSTITUENCY

The Member representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. (Barr.) Ime Okon, has attracted projects worth over 1.7 billion naira to his constituency within his first two years in office.

Hon. Okon, who disclosed this on Monday, June 16, while presenting his scorecard to mark his second anniversary in office, reaffirmed his commitment to transparent and impactful representation.

Speaking during the interactive session with members of the press, the federal lawmaker noted that he has sponsored or co-sponsored eight (8) bills and motions, including: A bill to establish the Metallurgical and Material Engineers and Scientist Registration Board of Nigeria; A bill to establish the Biomedical Engineers and Scientist Registration Board; Motions on the urgent rehabilitation of the Calabar-Itu-Ikot Ekpene Road, the disparity between HND and BSc holders in security agencies, and the need to decongest correctional centres, among others.

In line with his constitutional duty of oversight, the lawmaker revealed his active participation as a committed member of ten House Committees, including Inter-Governmental Affairs (as Deputy Chairman), Gas Resources, Healthcare Services, Host Communities, and Works. He is also co-opted into three additional committees: Procurement, Basic Education, and Interior.

Barr. Ime Okon listed a wide range of infrastructure, empowerment, and welfare projects facilitated under his representation, valued at over ₦1.7 billion, surpassing the ₦200 million project limit typically allocated per member.

Some of the completed and ongoing projects include: Construction of furnished 6 classroom block, Technical School, Ayadehe, and 4 classroom block with toilet facilities, PCN Primary School, North Itam, Itu LGA; Construction of 1.5km Joshua Uwah Street, including installation of solar-powered street lights and drainage system, in Mbak Itam III, Itu LGA; Commissioning of an ultra-modern 450-capacity, Civic Centre in Idoro and ongoing construction of 1000-capacity Civic Centre in Nkwa, Ibiono Ibom LGA; Installation of solar-powered street lights in Ikot Obio Enang, Ikot Edok, Ikot Obio Enang, and Ikpa Ikot Ubo/Ikot Usen, Ibiono Ibom LGA and Itu LGA

Other projects are Provision of solar-powered boreholes, roads with drainage and lighting, and digital tools; Educational support through bursaries to over 300 students, including 18 Law School students; Free Medical Outreach in Itu and Ibiono Ibom LGAs; Empowerment through donation of cars, scholarships to children of deceased political stakeholders, and medical and welfare support to over 800 constituents, and Facilitation of employment opportunities in federal and state agencies, including the UUTH, Nigeria Police Force, and Federal Fire Service.

He also corrected the widespread misconception surrounding the 2025 constituency project allocation, clarifying that while each constituency is now allotted ₦1 billion worth of projects, no cash is handed directly to lawmakers, and all projects are executed by the relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

Looking ahead, Rt. Hon. Ime Okon revealed plans for a massive empowerment programme later this year, targeting skills development and financial upliftment of constituents.

He appreciated the media for its longstanding partnership, which he described as his “third constituency,” citing a cordial relationship that dates back to his time as Chairman, House Committee on Information in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.

He also thanked members of the press who joined his team during the two-day project commissioning and inspection across Itu and Ibiono Ibom LGAs, noting that their coverage contributes to deepening public accountability and transparency.

He called for continued media support and public collaboration, while also urging prayers for the success of Governor Umo Eno, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and fellow federal lawmakers from the state.

“By the grace of God, I will continue to deliver more. I remain committed to listening, acting, and working for the growth of Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency,” he assured.