His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. John Ayah, the Catholic Bishop of Uyo Diocese, yesterday, laid the foundation stone to flag off the construction of a new Catholic Church building project sponsored by the Senator representing Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Ekong Sampson.
The foundation-laying ceremony, which attracted a large turnout of parishioners and community members, marked a significant milestone in the expansion of Catholic Church infrastructure in Ikot Unya village, Mkpat Enin Local Government Areas.
Performing the solemn rites, Bishop Ayah, who was accompanied by his Secretary at the Bishop’s Court, Rev. Fr. Daniel Asukwo, offered prayers for the successful completion of the project and for the continued growth of the Catholic faith in the area.
The Bishop commended Senator Ekong Sampson for what he described as a remarkable gesture of faith and commitment to the work of God, noting that the project will not only strengthen worship but also serve as a training centre to develop morals among young people and families.
Senator Ekong Sampson, who was represented at the event by Hon. Nkereuwem James, remarked that the church project was his humble way of giving back to God, the Church, and the people. In his goodwill message, the Senator reaffirmed his belief in the power of faith and the vital role religious institutions play in building a morally upright and peaceful society.
The Lawmaker urged the Church to continue offering prayers for leaders at all levels and for the unity and progress of Nigeria, while reiterating his commitment to promoting spiritual development and strengthening social values across the constituency.
Beyond the church project, Senator Sampson’s developmental footprints in Ikot Unya and its environs remain evident in several ongoing and completed interventions. These include the ongoing construction of the Ikot Unya–Nung Ukim–Ikot Ekpe road project, as well as the construction of a CBT/ICT Centre in Excellent College, he established in 2004, and made tuition-free for several years before it was handed over to the Akwa Ibom State Government.
It was further disclosed that three additional road projects facilitated by Senator Sampson will soon be flagged off soon, while a Police Post has also been approved for Ikot Unya to enhance security and protect critical infrastructure in the area, including the reactivation of electricity transformer, installation of solar-powered street lights, and the provision of portable water.
The historic ceremony was graced by eminent personalities including Hon. Friday Afia, former Secretary of Mkpat Enin Local Government Council; SUPOL Sylvester Dominic, Chairman of the Parish Pastoral Council; Mr. Sylvester Obot, Chairman of the Project Committee; and Catechist Basil Akpan, among others.
The event ended on a note of thanksgiving as parishioners expressed gratitude for Senator Sampson’s continued support and prayed for God’s blessings and guidance upon him in his service to the people of Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District.
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