NDDC to Partner with Akwa Ibom State University on Infrastructural Development

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has pledged to collaborate with Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) to enhance its infrastructural facilities.

This was announced during a courtesy visit to the university's main campus on by the NDDC's Akwa Ibom State representative.

During the visit, the Vice-Chancellor of AKSU, Prof. Nse U. Essien, expressed his gratitude for the NDDC’s commitment to constructing a new pavilion, which will serve as a key venue for university events and activities. He emphasized the need for additional support, particularly the completion of a teaching hospital project initiated by the NDDC over a decade ago. Prof. Essien highlighted that the hospital, once completed, would not only support AKSU's long-awaited medical school but also serve as a major referral hospital for states across the South-South region.

The Vice-Chancellor also took the opportunity to recognize the contributions of prominent leaders, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and AKSU’s Pro-Chancellor, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma, for their roles in advancing the university’s growth.

Responding to these appeals, Apostle Abasiandikan Nkono, the NDDC Commissioner for Akwa Ibom, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to supporting the university’s growth. He noted that Senator Akpabio was particularly invested in ensuring AKSU experiences an infrastructural renaissance, recognizing that a thriving university is essential for broader regional development. Nkono also assured the university leadership that the NDDC would consider the completion of the teaching hospital and installation of solar lighting on the campus in its future plans.

“Education is key to a nation’s future, and providing a conducive environment for learning is crucial. We are committed to doing our part to ensure AKSU students have the best possible conditions to thrive,” Nkono stated.

The university’s Registrar, Dr. Ebi G. Eno-Ibanga, expressed her appreciation for the NDDC's commitment, stating that the partnership would greatly enhance the learning environment at AKSU. She expressed optimism that the collaboration would yield positive results for both students and staff.

The meeting was attended by senior officials from AKSU, including the Bursar, Dr. Jacob Eseneyen, and members of the university's physical planning and public relations departments, alongside the visiting NDDC delegation.