In every generation, a few leaders rise whose influence transcends titles and politics, defined instead by service, empathy, and enduring impact. In this context, Elder Benjamin Udobia stands tall among such leaders.
A compassionate statesman whose life’s work reflects genuine love for community development, human empowerment, and sustainable growth in Esit Eket and beyond.
Elder Udobia’s leadership philosophy is one that attracts and inspire observers and anchored on people-centered development. His unwavering commitment to community advancement is evident in his deliberate empowerment of women, strategic grooming of youths, and consistent advocacy for peace and unity. Through mentorship, economic support, and inclusive engagement. He has helped women rediscover dignity and opportunity, while equipping young people with skills, confidence, and direction to thrive in a fast-changing world.
Beyond social empowerment, Elder Udobia has remained a stabilizing force in the political landscape of Esit Eket. His consistent support for political harmony and grassroots cohesion has strengthened democratic values and reduced divisions, earning him widespread respect across wards, villages, and party lines.
A visionary entrepreneur, Elder Udobia has translated private-sector success into public good. Through his conglomerate of investments, spanning construction, hospitality, and allied sectors, he has facilitated employment opportunities for countless indigenes of Esit Eket. These jobs are more than paychecks; they represent dignity, stability, and hope for families whose lives have been positively altered by his foresight.
Perhaps most symbolic of his enduring legacy is his investment in education. At Secondary School, Edo, Elder Udobia constructed a modern, fully equipped ICT/computer center complemented by VIP toilet facilities for both students and teachers, an intervention that has transformed the learning environment and expanded access to world-class digital literacy. This landmark project has attracted commendation from community leaders, State Secondary Education Board (SUBEB), students, parents, and stakeholders within and beyond the local government area, standing as a testament to his belief that education is the strongest foundation for sustainable development.
Following his conviction on education as the bedrock of every society, he has awarded full scholarships to over 30 students from Edo and Esit Eket, supporting them throughout their tertiary education, while also extending postgraduate (Master’s) scholarship opportunities to several deserving scholars from the LGA.
Beyond education, the noble statesman has attracted and facilitated numerous infrastructural developments to his community, significantly improving the quality of life for residents. His humanitarian interventions include the consistent support and settlement of hospital bills for indigent patients battling various illnesses..
In further demonstration of his commitment to public health and community welfare, he has championed the construction of boreholes, providing access to clean and potable water for his people. His positive touch is widely and conspicuously felt irrespective of political affiliation. This however earns him deep respect and regard within and beyond.
His generosity is not seasonal, nor selective; it is woven into his character. From supporting widows and the less privileged, to uplifting the vulnerable and restoring hope to the forgotten, his philanthropy reflects a heart that truly beats for the people. Those he has mentored, empowered, and lifted continue to echo his name, not out of obligation, but gratitude. They see in him a noble leader with rare insight, a clear visionary roadmap, and an unshakable commitment to peace, unity, and progress.
In politics and community life alike, Elder Benjamin Udobia has proven himself a true grassroots pillar and rallying point. Through selfless service, inclusive leadership, and an unrelenting passion for growth, he is building a future not only for today, but for generations unborn.
Elder Benjamin Udobia is more than a leader. He is a lifeline, a bridge-builder, and a symbol of what compassionate leadership can achieve. Small wonder he remains naturally loved by his people.
-Jerryz Edoho, a Journalist and Social Crusader, writes from Idua Ntak-Inyang,
Esit Eket LGA.