By Emetuei Okuk
Residents of Okossi community in Urue-Offong/Oruko Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State have received a significant boost in access to clean and potable water following the commissioning of a solar-powered borehole project by the Deaconess Sarah Joseph Inwang Foundation.
The project, located in Udung Oko within the Okossi group of villages, was officially inaugurated on Monday, April 13, 2024. It marks the fourth solar-powered borehole initiative executed by the foundation in Oron Nation, underscoring its commitment to improving rural water supply and public health.
Representing the Executive Chairman of Urue-Offong/Oruko Local Government Council, Rt. Hon. Chief Amb. Uno Etim Uno, the Supervisor for Information, Education, and Social Reorientation conveyed the chairman’s appreciation to the foundation for what he described as a timely and impactful intervention. He noted that the project aligns with the administration’s ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of life for residents across the local government area. He also sought clarification on whether the foundation’s activities had any political undertones.
The borehole project was facilitated by the foundation’s founder, Elder Dr. Etim Joseph Inwang, in honour of his late mother, Deaconess Sarah Joseph Inwang, whose legacy of generosity and service inspired the initiative. The foundation operates under the guiding principle: “Loving God is to help others.”
Speaking at the event, the Akwa Ibom State Chairman of the foundation, Hon. Emetuei Frank, highlighted the sustainability of the project, noting that the solar-powered system is designed to function efficiently even during periods of limited sunlight. He revealed that the foundation had previously commissioned similar projects in Ubodung, Afaha Osu, and Osu Offi, making the Okossi installation the fourth in the series.
He further disclosed that the foundation has undertaken several humanitarian initiatives, including the provision of free medical services in Ubodung, the award of scholarships to indigent students, and the empowerment of hundreds of individuals through business grants.
In his remarks, Dr. Inwang expressed gratitude to community members and stakeholders for their support. He reaffirmed his commitment to extending similar interventions to all 33 villages within the local government area. Addressing speculations about political ambition, he firmly stated that his efforts are driven solely by compassion, unity, and a desire to serve humanity, stressing that he has no political intentions.
Several dignitaries delivered goodwill messages at the event, including community leaders and stakeholders such as Bart Omen Bassey. The Clan Head of Ubodung, represented by Chief Akan Ima, offered prayers and presented symbolic gifts to the donor, including an award of excellence as a mark of appreciation and solidarity.
The Village Head of Ubodung, Chief Effiong Harry, alongside the Youth President of Okossi, Ulap Lawrence, and the Women Leader who spoke on behalf of the Okossi group of villages, commended the initiative and pledged to protect and maintain the facility. They also offered both traditional and spiritual prayers for the continued success of the donor and the foundation.
In a show of gratitude, the community presented gifts to the donor, including a goat, crayfish, plantains, and other items.
Also speaking, former Council Chairman and ex-member of the House of Representatives, Chief Dr. Sir Esio Okwong, praised the project and acknowledged past challenges related to vandalism. He assured continued support for community development initiatives and announced plans for a forthcoming free medical outreach for his people. He urged youths in the area to adopt positive attitudes for the overall progress and peace of the community.
The project was officially commissioned and handed over to the community for public use by the chairman’s representative, amid widespread expressions of appreciation from residents.
Other dignitaries present at the event included the media aide to Hon. Martin Esin, Comrade John Ntekim; House of Assembly aspirant, Engr. Okwong Uya; and the Supervisor for Agriculture, Mr. Ita Okon Effiong, among others.
In a vote of thanks, the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Barr. Omen Bassey, an indigene of the area, expressed gratitude to all attendees for their support in ensuring the success of the event. He particularly commended Elder Dr. Etim Joseph Inwang for restoring access to clean water in the community, describing the gesture as a reflection of genuine compassion and support for ongoing government efforts to transform the local government area.
He also appreciated the presence of the council’s representative and wished the donor continued success in his humanitarian endeavors.