The Senator representing Akwa Ibom South in the National Assembly, Senator Ekong Sampson has revealed a novel Sister City programme between cities in the United States of America and Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, for his constituents.
The Sister City initiative comes in the form of bilateral interface and exchange between some cities in the US and Akwa Ibom South. Through the initiative, indigenes of Akwa Ibom South will have the opportunity to explore overseas interest in the areas of education, trade, investment, tourism, healthcare services, among others.
The laudable development was part of the discussions when Senator Sampson played host to the President of the African World Expo, Mr. Efiong Eniang, in his office at the National Assembly, Abuja, recently.
The African World Expo (AWE) is a notable driver of US-Africa Trade, Commerce and bilateral exchange for the past 29 years. The organization will hold its 30th African World Expo between August 15 – 17, 2024, in Downtown Michigan, USA.
Mr. Eniang, who is based in USA, was in Nigeria for preparations ahead of the convention. Eminent personalities and top industry players across a wide spectrum from Nigeria are expected at the Expo.
Speaking at a meeting with Mr. Eniang, Senator Ekong Sampson, who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, lauded the group for its long-standing commitment to fostering relationship between Nigeria and the US. He reiterated his pledge to build bridges and connect Akwa Ibom South, both within and outside Nigeria, towards the development of the region.
Senator Sampson noted that there were many indigenes of Akwa Ibom South who were well qualified and willing to explore foreign opportunities for self actualization and human capital development, saying that the unique Sister City intervention will provide a platform for his constituents to pursue such dreams.
Mr. Eniang, in his response, hailed Senator Ekong Sampson for his visionary representation in the Senate. Eniang highlighted on areas of partnership between Nigeria and the US, highlighting that both nations could leverage on their shared bilateral relationship to engender stronger ties.
It is noteworthy that Senator Ekong Sampson has shown sustained commitment to human capacity development of his constituents. Earlier this year, the Akwa Ibom South Senator empowered over 700 constituents with education and business support grants.
He has also, through the instrumentality of the 2024 Budget, facilitated a number of strategic projects, which are well spread across the senatorial district, notable among which include JAMB/CBT Centres in the three Federal Constituencies that make up Akwa Ibom South, electricity, trainings, roads and others. He has equally facilitated employment for many constituents.
