RismadarVoice Reporters, April 28, 2026
The Member representing Essien Udim State Constituency, Prince Ukpong Akpabio II, has instituted an annual award to honour the best graduating students in the Department of Public Administration, Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU).
The initiative, known as the Prince Ukpong Akpabio II Award, is part of his effort to give back to society and support the department where he is currently pursuing a PhD. Akpabio, who recently earned a Master’s degree in Public Administration during the university’s combined 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th convocation ceremonies, said the award will run for an initial period of ten years.
The award comes with a cash prize of ₦200,000 for each recipient.
Two outstanding graduates have emerged as the pioneer beneficiaries of the initiative. They are Mbereobong Friday Mark (Reg. No. AK21/MGT/PAD/DE/024), who graduated with a Second Class Upper Division in the 2023/2024 academic session (11th convocation), and Esin Josephine Godwin (Reg. No. AK21/MGT/PAD/DE/013), who also earned a Second Class Upper Division in the 2024/2025 academic session (12th convocation).
Speaking on the initiative, Prince Akpabio said the award is aimed at encouraging academic excellence among students of Public Administration and inspiring them to strive for higher achievements.
He noted that the gesture reflects his commitment not only to the university but also to the development of future leaders who will contribute meaningfully to society.
Akpabio congratulated the awardees and urged them to see the recognition as a stepping stone to greater accomplishments, wishing them success in their future endeavours.
