Prince Ukpong Akpabio II Honoured with the Sword of Saint John the Baptist Award by the Knights of Saint John International

A Recognition of Service and Leadership – In a historic and deeply spiritual ceremony, the member representing Essien Udim State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Prince Ukpong Akpabio II, was honoured with the prestigious Sword of Saint John the Baptist Award.

The honour was conferred by the Knights of Saint John International (KSJI) during the reception of the Grand President, Brigadier General Uduak Isobara, KSJI, as part of the 2025 Feast Day of Saint John the Baptist, held at Saint Lucy’s Quasi Parish, Ukana, in the Catholic Diocese of Ikot Ekpene.

This recognition stands as a testament to Prince Akpabio II’s unwavering dedication to selfless leadership, public service, community development, and faith-driven values.

The Significance of the Sword of Saint John the Baptist Award

The Knights of Saint John International (KSJI) is one of the oldest Catholic fraternal organizations in the world, renowned for its focus on service, discipline, charity, and the defense of faith. Within the Order, the Sword of Saint John the Baptist Award is among the most prestigious honours.

This award is not given lightly; it symbolizes:

• Faithful service to God and humanity.

• Commitment to truth, justice, and compassion.

• Distinguished leadership in society.

• A legacy of inspiring and empowering others.

By conferring this honour on Prince Ukpong Akpabio II, the KSJI has reaffirmed his reputation as a servant-leader who embodies the values of integrity, humility, and service to both the Church and society.

Presentation of the Award

During the award ceremony, Brigadier General Uduak Isobara, Grand President of the KSJI, praised Prince Akpabio II as a selfless leader who has consistently put the needs of his people above personal interest.

According to him, the lawmaker’s record of community development projects, support for grassroots initiatives, and contributions to the Church made him a deserving recipient.

Brig. Gen. Isobara further emphasized that leadership is not only measured by titles but by impact on the lives of the people served, a quality that Prince Akpabio II has demonstrated throughout his career.

Other Distinguished Awardees at the Ceremony

The event was not only a celebration of one man’s achievement but also a gathering of leaders and community builders. Alongside Prince Akpabio II, other distinguished personalities were honoured for their roles in service and leadership:

• Elder Ntiedo Usoro, Executive Chairman of Essien Udim Local Government.

• Engr. Enobong Patrick, PDP Chairmanship candidate in the last Local Government election.

• Obonganwan Rosemary Pius Idiong, wife of a respected State High Court judge.

• Dr. Nestor Udoh, retired Permanent Secretary.

These honorees, drawn from diverse backgrounds, represent a broader recognition of individuals who have committed themselves to community advancement, service to humanity, and support for the Catholic faith.

Prince Ukpong Akpabio II’s Response: A Tribute to a Fallen Friend

In his acceptance speech, Prince Ukpong Akpabio II expressed deep gratitude to the Holy Trinity Commandery 423 and Ladies Auxiliary (LAUX), Ikot Ekpene, for the recognition.

Visibly emotional, he dedicated the award to the memory of his late friend and brother, Obong-Unwana Nsini Umana, KSJI, who passed away just last month at the age of 54.

“If Nsini were alive, he would have been here today to celebrate with me and, as always, make generous contributions to support the work of KSJI. I dedicate this honour to his memory,” Prince Akpabio II said.

In keeping with his long tradition of generosity, he announced a ₦500,000 support for the Knights, reinforcing his belief in giving back and sustaining institutions that shape communities.

The Legacy of Obong-Unwana Nsini Umana

The dedication of the award to Obong-Unwana Nsini Umana added a deeply personal and emotional dimension to the ceremony. Known for his unwavering commitment to charity and support for the Church, Nsini Umana was remembered as a man of faith, generosity, and humility.

Prince Akpabio II’s gesture of dedicating his recognition to Nsini’s memory underscores the lawmaker’s values of friendship, loyalty, and collective service. It also reminds the community that the impact of good deeds lives beyond an individual’s lifetime.

Community and Spiritual Significance of the Event

The Feast of Saint John the Baptist is an important celebration in the Catholic calendar. By hosting the reception of the Grand President and awarding distinguished personalities, the Catholic Diocese of Ikot Ekpene reaffirmed its role as a hub of both spiritual renewal and community unity.

The event was attended by:

• Clerics from across the Diocese.

• Political leaders and policymakers.

• Members of the Catholic community.

• Cultural groups and dignitaries from Akwa Ibom State.

The atmosphere combined solemnity, spirituality, and cultural celebration, highlighting the balance between faith and societal leadership.

Prince Ukpong Akpabio II: A Profile in Leadership

Prince Akpabio II is widely respected not only as a legislator but also as a community mobilizer, philanthropist, and advocate for youth empowerment. Over the years, he has distinguished himself in several ways:

• Grassroots Development: Supporting infrastructural and educational projects within Essien Udim.

• Faith-Based Contributions: Consistent support to churches and faith-based organizations.

• Youth Empowerment: Creating opportunities for young people to learn skills and pursue meaningful employment.

• Community Solidarity: Actively participating in both joyous and solemn occasions of his constituents, reflecting empathy and true leadership.

This award serves as a reminder of his continued influence and the high expectations his constituents place on his leadership.

Why This Award Matters for Essien Udim Constituency

The recognition of Prince Akpabio II is not only personal but also collective. It symbolizes the rising profile of Essien Udim Local Government Area and its people within the state and the Catholic community.

It inspires constituents by showing that their representative is not only making waves in the political sphere but also gaining recognition for service, humility, and community building.

For young people in Essien Udim, this is a powerful reminder that leadership grounded in values will always be celebrated.

Leadership, Faith, and Service: Lessons for All

Several lessons can be drawn from the recognition of Prince Akpabio II:

1. Leadership is Service: Titles mean little if they are not backed by a heart for service.

2. Faith Matters: Aligning leadership with faith values ensures decisions that prioritize people over politics.

3. Community First: Leaders must share in both the joys and sorrows of their people.

4. Legacy of Friendship: True leaders acknowledge and honour the people who supported them along the way.

These values not only define Prince Akpabio II but also resonate with anyone aspiring to serve their community faithfully.

A Legacy in the Making

The Sword of Saint John the Baptist Award conferred on Prince Ukpong Akpabio II is more than an individual recognition. It is a symbol of faith, humility, and selfless service that inspires a broader community.

From his heartfelt tribute to his late friend Nsini Umana to his generous support for the KSJI, the lawmaker once again proved that leadership is not about titles but about impact, sacrifice, and empathy.

As dignitaries, clerics, and the Catholic faithful gathered to celebrate the occasion, one message stood clear: true leadership combines faith, service, and humanity. And in Prince Akpabio II, the people of Essien Udim see an embodiment of that ideal.