By Nseobong Okon-Ekong
In an era where politics is often defined by short-term gains and populist gestures, Hon. Uduakobong Ekpo-Ufot, the member representing Etinan State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, stands out as a visionary leader charting a different course. His politics is rooted not in rhetoric, but in foresight — in the conviction that sustainable progress can only come through innovation, youth empowerment, and the deliberate creation of a knowledge-based economy.
A former aide on protocol to Governor Udom Emmanuel, Ekpo-Ufot has evolved into one of the most forward-thinking legislators in the Akwa Ibom State Assembly. As Chairman of the House Committee on Technology, he is not just advocating modernization — he is building the foundation for a technologically driven Etinan and, by extension, a smarter Akwa Ibom State.
From the Corridors of Government to the Legislature
Hon. Uduakobong Ekpo-Ufot’s political journey began under the mentorship of former Governor Udom Emmanuel, a technocrat himself. As an aide on protocol, he learned the intricacies of governance, discipline, and administrative precision. The experience exposed him to the inner workings of government, shaping his understanding of leadership, coordination, and service delivery.
Unlike many who approach politics as a career, Ekpo-Ufot views it as a platform to actualize ideas — particularly those centered on technology, education, and youth development. His transition to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly was therefore a natural evolution: from facilitating governance to legislating for impact.
A Lawmaker with a Technological Edge
As Chairman, House Committee on Technology, Hon. Ekpo-Ufot has infused his legislative responsibilities with a digital-first mindset. He believes that the next phase of Akwa Ibom’s development must be powered by information and innovation. His committee’s focus extends beyond theoretical oversight — it seeks to position Akwa Ibom as a hub for digital transformation.
Through this lens, he has been advocating policies and programmes that encourage investment in ICT training, data infrastructure, and tech-driven entrepreneurship across the state.
Efa Computers: A Blueprint for Youth Empowerment
Perhaps his most inspiring initiative is the Efa Computers Project, a grassroots empowerment scheme that introduces young people in Etinan to computer literacy, coding, and digital enterprise. The project, which provides access to computers, software tools, and mentorship, is designed to close the digital gap between rural youth and their urban counterparts.
By equipping young people with technological skills, Hon. Ekpo-Ufot is helping them transition from job seekers to problem solvers — from consumers of technology to creators of it. The project’s long-term goal is to produce a generation of Etinan youths who can compete globally in IT, digital marketing, design, and software development.
This initiative is not only practical but deeply symbolic. It signals a shift in developmental thinking — from charity-based empowerment to knowledge-based wealth creation.
Building the Common Wealth of Etinan’s Future
Hon. Ekpo-Ufot’s vision for Etinan is anchored on building a common wealth — a shared prosperity driven by innovation, education, and human capital development. His philosophy is simple: sustainable growth cannot be built on handouts, but on capacity.
He envisions an Etinan where every young person has access to the tools, training, and opportunities needed to thrive in a digital economy. Through deliberate investment in skills and technology, he believes that the community can gradually move from dependence on government to a system where wealth is generated through creativity and enterprise.
This thinking aligns with the state’s broader push for industrialization and economic diversification. Yet, Ekpo-Ufot’s approach is uniquely grassroots — local in reach but global in outlook.
Ahead of His Time
Colleagues and constituents alike often describe Hon. Ekpo-Ufot as “ahead of his time.” His ideas challenge conventional approaches to local governance. Where others see challenges, he sees potential. Where others pursue visibility projects, he invests in human infrastructure — in minds that can multiply opportunities.
His legislative work reflects this futuristic thinking. From pushing for policies that enhance digital inclusion, to supporting collaborations between government and the private tech ecosystem, Ekpo-Ufot is laying the groundwork for an Akwa Ibom where digital literacy becomes a basic right, not a privilege.
He is also a strong advocate for innovation in education — encouraging schools within Etinan to integrate computer learning and entrepreneurship into their curriculum.
Connecting Leadership with Learning
Beyond his formal duties, Hon. Ekpo-Ufot maintains close contact with his constituents, especially young people. His leadership style is defined by accessibility and mentorship. He believes that leadership must inspire others to dream and innovate.
Through digital engagements and constituency dialogues, he encourages youths to bring forward ideas, not just complaints. His vision is to create an ecosystem of young innovators who can collaborate, compete, and co-create solutions for their community’s challenges.
His calm, analytical disposition belies an intense passion for progress. Colleagues describe him as a thinker — deliberate, futuristic, and profoundly strategic. His quiet confidence and devotion to long-term development have earned him respect both within and outside the Assembly.
The Lawmaker as a Visionary
In a political climate often dominated by short-term populism, Hon. Iduakobong Ekpo-Ufot represents a refreshing departure — a technocratic lawmaker who sees politics as a tool for intellectual and social advancement.
He stands at the intersection of governance and innovation, bridging traditional leadership with modern problem-solving. His projects, particularly the Efa Computers initiative, are not just about giving gadgets — they are about giving hope, skills, and a sense of global belonging to young people in rural communities.
In time, the impact of his foresight will likely extend far beyond Etinan. As the digital economy continues to shape the world, Ekpo-Ufot’s work today will be seen as the foundation of a new generation of tech-enabled citizens in Akwa Ibom State.
A Leader for Tomorrow
Hon. Uduakobong Ekpo-Ufot is not just a representative of Etinan — he is a representative of the future. His commitment to technology, education, and empowerment signals a paradigm shift in what it means to serve the people. He is planting seeds that will bear fruit for decades to come, ensuring that Etinan remains not just relevant, but competitive, in a rapidly changing world.
With leaders like Ekpo-Ufot steering the conversation towards innovation and human capital, Etinan’s future looks bright — informed, connected, and confidently marching into the digital age.