By Nseobong Okon-Ekong
In the ever-evolving political theatre of Akwa Ibom State, Hon. Isantim Kenneth Okon stands out as a figure of stability, purpose, and tested leadership. From his early days in public service to his current role as Political Leader of Etinan Local Government Area, Okon’s political journey reflects a deep commitment to community development, effective governance, and the preservation of peace.
From Aide to Administrator
Okon’s formative years in politics were shaped by his tenure as Aide to a former Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). It was a period that exposed him to the complex interplay of development politics in the Niger Delta. Working within the NDDC framework, he acquired valuable experience in policy implementation, regional development, and administrative coordination—skills that would later define his leadership style.
Transformative Tenure as Etinan Chairman
As Chairman of Etinan Local Government Council, Hon. Okon distinguished himself through people-oriented governance. His administration placed a strong emphasis on infrastructural improvement, rural electrification, healthcare delivery, and youth empowerment.
Okon’s leadership approach was both inclusive and pragmatic. He prioritized community engagement, frequently consulting traditional rulers, youth groups, and women’s associations to ensure that the council’s development initiatives reflected the real needs of the people.
Among his notable interventions were the renovation of rural feeder roads, rehabilitation of market facilities, and expansion of local healthcare services. His focus on small and medium-scale enterprises reflected his belief that sustainable development must be rooted in economic empowerment at the grassroots.
Championing Security and Stability
Hon. Okon’s administrative competence found further expression when he was appointed Coordinator of the Ibom Community Watch, a state-backed security initiative designed to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies.
In this capacity, Okon deployed his deep understanding of community structures to enhance local intelligence gathering and prevent criminal activity. His leadership was instrumental in strengthening collaboration between security operatives and community vigilante groups, helping to maintain peace in Etinan and surrounding local government areas.
Under his watch, the Ibom Community Watch became a model for community-driven security management, reinforcing Akwa Ibom’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful states.
Safeguarding Akwa Ibom’s Waterways
In recognition of his capacity and reliability, Hon. Isantim Kenneth Okon was later appointed Special Assistant to the Governor on Waterways Security—a sensitive position that underscored his growing influence in the state’s security architecture.
In this role, Okon coordinated efforts to secure Akwa Ibom’s inland and coastal waterways, working in collaboration with maritime security agencies, local fishermen, and traditional institutions in riverine communities. His proactive engagement helped to curb illegal activities such as piracy, oil theft, and smuggling along critical waterways that link Akwa Ibom to neighboring states.
Through regular patrols, intelligence sharing, and community sensitization, he built trust between the government and local stakeholders, contributing significantly to the protection of lives, livelihoods, and the state’s maritime economy.
Complementing Governor Umo Eno’s Peace and Security Agenda
Hon. Okon’s roles in community and waterways security align seamlessly with Governor Umo Eno’s peace and development agenda, which prioritizes safety as the foundation for economic growth. The state’s impressive peace index and relative absence of violent crime have been largely attributed to the synergy between local security actors and government-backed initiatives like the Ibom Community Watch and Waterways Security Office.
By maintaining vigilance across both land and water, Okon has contributed meaningfully to the continuity of peace and stability that defines the current administration. His efforts support the governor’s vision of a secure environment where tourism, agriculture, and investment can thrive without fear of disruption.
Political Leadership and Mentorship
Beyond public office, Hon. Isantim Kenneth Okon remains a central pillar of Etinan’s political architecture. As Political Leader of Etinan Local Government Area, he has consistently demonstrated a rare combination of firmness and fairness in managing political affairs.
Across all political divides, he is widely respected for his strategic insight, conflict-resolution skills, and loyalty to the ideals of his political party. His influence extends beyond Etinan, as he continues to play a vital role in maintaining cohesion and discipline within the Akwa Ibom political establishment.
Okon is also recognized for his mentorship of emerging political figures. Many of today’s young leaders in Etinan trace their political grounding to his guidance and encouragement. His open-door policy and inclusive leadership style have earned him goodwill across party lines.
Legacy of Service
For Hon. Isantim Kenneth Okon, politics has always been a tool for service, not self-aggrandizement. His administrative record, coupled with his unwavering commitment to peace and development, continues to inspire confidence among his constituents.
Even outside elective office, his voice carries weight in policy discussions and community decision-making. To many in Etinan, he represents continuity—an enduring symbol of experience, balance, and stability in a changing political landscape.
As Akwa Ibom continues its steady march toward greater development, the contributions of leaders like Isantim Kenneth Okon underscore the importance of competence, character, and commitment in public service. Little wonder his colleagues willingly made him the Dean of Honorary SAs to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State.