Essien Udim Lawmaker Prince Ukpong Akpabio II Joins Senate President’s Wife for Voter Sensitization and Flags Off Football Match at Frank Archibong’s 50th Birthday Celebration
Community leadership and political participation are often demonstrated through actions that unite people, inspire civic responsibility, and promote grassroots development.
On Tuesday, August 20, 2025, the Member representing Essien Udim State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Prince Ukpong Akpabio II, exemplified this when he took part in two major events that blended politics, sports, and community sensitization.
The lawmaker first performed the ceremonial kickoff at a novelty football match held in honor of Hon. Frank Archibong, the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, who turned 50.
Beyond the festivities, Prince Akpabio II also joined Dr. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, the wife of Nigeria’s Senate President, on a voter sensitization campaign across Etim Ekpo and Ika Local Government Areas.
Both activities highlighted the importance of grassroots leadership, political awareness, and community bonding, setting the stage for greater democratic participation as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.
The Ceremonial Kickoff: Honoring Frank Archibong at 50
Celebrating a Milestone of Service
The Eket Township Stadium came alive with excitement as friends, family, colleagues, and dignitaries gathered to celebrate the golden jubilee of Hon. Frank Archibong. To mark the occasion, a friendly football match was organized between the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Eket Branch and Friends of Frank Archibong.
The match was more than just entertainment, it was a reflection of unity, leadership, and friendship. Prince Ukpong Akpabio II, who performed the ceremonial kickoff, described Archibong as “a bridge-builder and patriotic leader whose contributions to grassroots development and local governance remain exemplary.”
Football as a Tool for Unity
Sports, particularly football, remain one of the most powerful tools for community bonding in Nigeria. By flagging off the match, Prince Akpabio II not only honored Archibong’s milestone but also emphasized how football can be a symbol of peace, teamwork, and collective joy.
The lawmaker noted that while political leadership requires policies and reforms, true leadership is also about creating opportunities for relaxation, unity, and shared experiences.
Voter Sensitization with Senate President’s Wife
Encouraging Political Participation at the Grassroots
After celebrating with Archibong, Prince Ukpong Akpabio II joined Dr. Ekaete Unoma Akpabio, wife of the Senate President, on a sensitization tour of Etim Ekpo and Ika Local Government Areas.
The campaign focused on encouraging eligible citizens to participate in the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise and revalidate their membership with the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections.
Dr. Ekaete Akpabio urged communities to take voter registration seriously, stressing that democracy thrives only when citizens take an active role in choosing their leaders.
Empowering the Youths
Prince Akpabio II used the opportunity to specifically address the youth population, many of whom have recently attained the voting age. He encouraged them to take advantage of the CVR to secure their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs). According to him, “the future of Nigeria’s democracy rests on the active participation of young people who must see themselves as key stakeholders in shaping governance.”
This message is particularly important in Akwa Ibom State, where youths represent a large portion of the voting population. By urging them to engage, Prince Akpabio II reinforced his commitment to inclusive political participation.
Why Voter Sensitization Matters Ahead of 2027
Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria
The Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise is a critical step in preparing for free and fair elections. It ensures that citizens who recently turned 18 or those who relocated have the chance to be properly captured in the electoral system.
Prince Akpabio II’s involvement shows how political leaders can lead by example, encouraging citizens to not only register but also participate actively in the democratic process.
Bridging the Gap Between Leaders and Citizens
By joining the sensitization tour, Prince Akpabio II demonstrated that leadership goes beyond lawmaking in the House of Assembly, it is about being present where the people are, understanding their challenges, and motivating them to engage with governance.
Grassroots Leadership: Prince Ukpong Akpabio II’s Approach
Leading with Empathy and Accessibility
Prince Akpabio II’s consistent presence at community events, whether joyous occasions like Archibong’s birthday or important campaigns like voter sensitization, reflects his hands-on leadership style. He believes that leadership is not distant but embedded within the community.
Balancing Celebration with Responsibility
His dual participation in both events shows a unique balance of leadership: the ability to celebrate achievements while also driving serious conversations about civic duty. This balance is vital for leaders who seek to connect with citizens on multiple levels.
Hon. Frank Archibong at 50: A Legacy of Service
Contributions to Local Governance
Hon. Frank Archibong has built a reputation as a grassroots-focused leader with a strong passion for local governance. As Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, his tenure has been marked by policies and initiatives that directly impact communities.
A Symbol of Bridge-Building
Prince Akpabio II’s tribute to Archibong as a “bridge-builder” underscores the latter’s ability to connect people across diverse backgrounds and unite them under common goals of development and progress.
Sports and Politics: A Blend for Community Development
The football match at Archibong’s birthday is symbolic of how sports and politics can intersect to promote community unity. While politics shapes governance, sports fosters togetherness and provides a healthy platform for relaxation.
By participating in the kickoff, Prince Akpabio II signaled that political leaders must embrace opportunities to bring people together beyond political lines, using cultural and sporting events as unifying platforms.
Voter Registration and the Future of Democracy in Akwa Ibom
The Role of CVR in Elections
The Continuous Voter Registration exercise ensures that no citizen is left behind in the democratic process. For Akwa Ibom State, encouraging mass participation can significantly influence the outcome of the 2027 elections.
Prince Akpabio II’s call to action highlights the urgent need for citizens to register early, avoid last-minute rushes, and take ownership of their democratic rights.
Preparing for 2027 Elections
With the elections just two years away, initiatives like this sensitization tour are critical for strengthening the electoral system. Political stakeholders recognize that without voter education and mobilization, democratic participation remains incomplete.
Community Engagement as a Hallmark of Leadership
Leadership Beyond Legislation
As a lawmaker, Prince Akpabio II has legislative responsibilities, but his consistent community involvement demonstrates that true leadership extends beyond the chambers of the House of Assembly.
Whether it’s through advocacy for voter registration, participation in community events, or celebrating with constituents, he reinforces the idea that leaders should walk side by side with the people they represent.
Leadership That Inspires Civic Responsibility
The dual activities of August 20, 2025, the football kickoff at Frank Archibong’s 50th birthday and the voter sensitization tour with the Senate President’s wife—were more than ceremonial. They were symbols of leadership, unity, and civic responsibility.
Prince Ukpong Akpabio II continues to demonstrate that leadership is not only about making laws but also about building bridges, empowering citizens, and preparing communities for the future.
As Nigeria heads towards the 2027 elections, his call to action for voter registration and participation serves as a reminder that democracy thrives only when the people’s voices are heard through the ballot box.
