Who is Godswill Akpabio? Everything about New Senate President
by Sona
Updated Jun 13, 2023
Who is Godswill Akpabio?
Godswill Obot Akpabio is a prominent Nigerian lawyer and politician. He holds the esteemed position of Senate President in Nigeria. Previously, Akpabio held the role of Minister for Niger Delta Affairs from 2019 to 2022. However, he resigned from this position on May 11, 2022, following President Muhammadu Buhari's directive.
The reason behind his resignation was to participate in the presidential primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC), expressing his interest in running for the presidency. Akpabio's political journey commenced during his tenure as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, where he served from 2007 to 2015. As governor, he implemented various development projects and policies aimed at enhancing the socio-economic landscape of the state.
Godswill Akpabio Early Life
Godswill Akpabio is a native of Ukana, Ikot Ntuen in Essien Udim Local Government Area. Godswill Akpabio is the son of Chief Obot Akpabio and Madam Lucy Obot Akpabio (previously known as Lucy Inyangetor). He was born on December 9, 1962. Following the unfortunate loss of his father at an early age, Akpabio was raised by his mother.
Akpabio received his early education at Methodist Primary School in Ukana, Essien Udim LGA, Akwa Ibom State. He later attended the Federal Government College in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Continuing his academic journey, Akpabio pursued a degree in Law at the University of Calabar in Cross River State.
It was during his time at the Federal Government College that he was appointed as the Senior Prefect, showcasing his leadership qualities. Moreover, during his time at the University of Calabar, Akpabio was elected as the Speaker of the Parliamentary Year, showcasing his active participation in student governance.
Godswill Akpabio Career and Politics
Godswill Akpabio has had a diverse career and has been actively involved in politics. Before entering politics, he briefly worked as a teacher and served as an associate partner at Paul Usoro and Co., a Nigerian law firm. He also held a prominent position as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of EMIS Telecoms Limited, a wireless telecommunications company based in Lagos.
Akpabio played a crucial role in shaping the telecommunications industry and served as the National Publicity Secretary of the Association of Telecommunication Companies in Nigeria. In 2002, Akpabio began his political journey when he was appointed as the Honourable Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources in Akwa Ibom State.
Subsequently, he assumed the role of Commissioner in three pivotal ministries, namely Petroleum and Natural Resources, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and Lands and Housing. In 2006, he successfully contested the primary election for the governorship of Akwa Ibom State, representing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His campaign slogan, "let God's will be done," resonated with the masses, leading to his election as the Governor in 2007.
He was re-elected for a second term in 2011. Akpabio's political influence extended beyond his governorship. He was elected Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum in 2013. In 2015, he won the Senate seat for the Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District under the PDP. He served as the Senate Minority Leader until his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2018.
Akpabio was later nominated by President Muhammadu Buhari and appointed as the Minister for Niger Delta Affairs in 2019. In June 2022, Akpabio resigned from his ministerial position to participate in the presidential primaries of the APC. However, he stepped down during the primaries and instead emerged as the Senatorial candidate for the Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District.
He successfully won the seat in the 2023 general elections and was elected as the Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on June 13, 2023, under the APC.
Godswill Akpabio Daughter
Godswill Akpabio, the renowned Nigerian politician, and his wife, Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, are proud parents to four daughters and a son. The Akpabio family cherishes their strong bond and nurtures their children with love and care. While specific details about each daughter are not provided, it can be imagined that they are raised in an environment of values and support.
Growing up in a family dedicated to public service and community development, Godswill Akpabio's daughters likely witness firsthand the importance of making a positive impact on society. As children of parents deeply involved in initiatives aimed at enhancing family life and achieving the Millennium Development Goals, the Akpabio daughters are likely to have a well-rounded upbringing that emphasizes the value of education, compassion, and social responsibility.
Godswill Akpabio Family
Godswill Akpabio comes from a family with a rich history of public service and notable achievements. His grandfather, Okuku Udo Akpabio, held the esteemed position of Warrant Chief in Ikot Ekpene province. His uncle, Dr. I. U. Akpabio, served as the Minister of Education/Internal Affairs during the time of Eastern Nigeria.
In addition, Godswill Akpabio's cousin, Justice Nsima Akpabio, had the honor of serving as a senator during the Second Nigerian Republic. Akpabio, a devout Christian, follows the Catholic faith. He is happily married to Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, a remarkable woman who is the founder of the Family Life Enhancement Initiative (FLEI).
This non-governmental organization plays a pivotal role in redirecting development efforts towards strengthening families, which is seen as a crucial strategy in achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Together, Godswill Akpabio and his wife have been blessed with four daughters and a son. Their family is a testament to their commitment to each other and their shared values.
Godswill Akpabio Biography
Name
Godswill Akpabio
Full Name
Godswill Obot Akpabio
Date of Birth
December 9, 1962
Occupation
Politician, Lawyer
Age
60 Years Old
Place of Birth
Ukana, Ikot Ntuen, Essien Udim, Eastern Region, Nigeria (now in Akwa Ibom State)
Gender
Male
Nationality
Nigerian
Marital Status
Married
Education
University of Calabar
Spouse
Ekaette Unoma Akpabio
Qualification
Honourary Degree
Net Worth
$100 million
SPECIFICATION
DETAILS
Who is Godswill Akpabio - FAQs
Godswill Akpabio is a Nigerian lawyer and politician who has held various prominent positions in government, including serving as a senator and a minister.
Godswill Akpabio is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), a major political party in Nigeria.
Godswill Akpabio has held several positions in government, including serving as a governor, a senator, and a minister.
Godswill Akpabio is from Akwa Ibom State, which is located in the southern part of Nigeria.
Godswill Akpabio obtained a degree in Law from the University of Calabar in Nigeria.