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Godswill Akpabio is a name that has become synonymous with Nigerian politics, particularly in the South-South region of the country.
Born on December 9th, 1962, in Ukana, Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Akpabio has risen to become one of the most prominent politicians in Nigeria.
With a career spanning over two decades, he has held various political positions, including serving as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State from 2007 to 2015.
Akpabio is known for his charismatic leadership style, which has endeared him to many Nigerians.
He is also a doting husband to his lovely wife, Unoma Akpabio, and a proud father of several children, including his daughter, Iniabasi Akpabio, who is carving a niche for herself in the entertainment industry.
In this Godswill Akpabio biography, we will take a closer look at the Senate President’s life, from his humble beginnings to his meteoric rise in Nigerian politics.
We will delve into his net worth, houses, cars, family, and political career, including his recent appointment as the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs.
Early Life and Education
Godswill Akpabio was born into a humble family in Ukana, Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
He was the second of eight children.
His father, Chief Obot Akpabio, was a teacher, and his mother, Madam Lucy Obot Akpabio, was a trader.
Despite his parents’ modest means, Akpabio was determined to succeed in life.
He attended Methodist Primary School, Ukana, and later, the prestigious Federal Government College, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he obtained his West African School Certificate. He proceeded to the University of Calabar, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Law.
Akpabio’s early life was marked by hard work and determination.
He worked as a teacher and a dockworker to support himself through school.
Akpabio was also actively involved in student politics, serving as the Secretary-General of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).
His experience in student politics would prove invaluable in his later political career.
Political Career
Godswill Akpabio began his political career in the early 2000s.
He was a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and was appointed as Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources in Akwa Ibom State in 2002.
Akpabio later served as the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and Commissioner for Lands and Housing.
In 2006, he was appointed as the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, serving under Governor Victor Attah.
By 2007, Godswill Akpabio was elected as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, defeating his closest rival, Senator James John Akpan Udoedehe of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP).
He was re-elected for a second term in 2011, with a landslide victory.
During his tenure as Governor, Akpabio initiated several development projects in Akwa Ibom State, including the construction of the Akwa Ibom International Stadium, the Ibom Tropicana Entertainment Centre, and the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
Appointment as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs
In 2019, Godswill Akpabio was appointed as the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs by President Muhammadu Buhari.
His appointment was greeted with mixed reactions, with some Nigerians expressing optimism that he would use his experience to bring about positive change in the Niger Delta region, while others expressed concern that he might use his position to further his political ambitions.
As Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio has been involved in several projects aimed at developing the Niger Delta region.
He has also been at the forefront of the Federal Government’s efforts to tackle the issue of illegal oil bunkering and pipeline vandalism in the region.
Wife, Family, and Children
Godswill Akpabio is married to Unoma Akpabio, and the couple has several children together.
His daughter, Iniabasi Akpabio, is a rising star in the entertainment industry, having recently launched her music career.
Godswill Akpabio is known to be a family man, and he has often spoken about the importance of family in his life.
He has also been involved in several philanthropic activities aimed at helping the less privileged in society.
Net Worth, Houses, and Cars
Godswill Akpabio’s net worth is estimated to be around $20 million.
He owns several properties in Nigeria and abroad, including a mansion in Asokoro, Abuja, and a house in the exclusive Ikoyi area of Lagos.
Akpabio is also known to own several luxury cars, including a Rolls Royce, a Range Rover, and a Mercedes Benz.
Private Jet Ownership Controversy
In 2015, Godswill Akpabio was embroiled in a controversy over his ownership of a private jet.
The jet, which was allegedly purchased with public funds, was said to be worth over $45 million.
Akpabio denied the allegations, saying that the jet belonged to a private company in which he had a stake.
The controversy generated a lot of public debate, with many Nigerians calling for a probe into the matter.
Achievements and Controversies
Godswill Akpabio’s political career has been marked by several achievements and controversies.
He is credited with initiating several development projects in Akwa Ibom State, including the construction of the Akwa Ibom International Stadium, the Ibom Tropicana Entertainment Centre, and the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
However, his tenure as Governor was not without controversy.
He was accused of corruption and mismanagement of public funds, allegations which he denied.
Senate Presidency Bid
In 2019, Godswill Akpabio was one of the contenders for the position of Senate President. However, his bid was unsuccessful, as he lost to Senator Ahmad Lawan.
Despite the setback, Akpabio remains a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, and his influence is felt in the South-South region of the country.
And in 2023, Akpabio contested against the former governor of Zamfara, Abdulaziz Yari. Akpabio won and is now the President of the 10th Senate.
Conclusion
Godswill Akpabio is a political juggernaut in Nigeria, known for his charisma and leadership skills. He has risen from humble beginnings to become one of the most prominent politicians in the country. Despite the controversies that have dogged his political career, he remains a respected figure in Nigerian politics.
As Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, he has a unique opportunity to bring about positive change in the Niger Delta region, and Nigerians are watching closely to see how he will fare in his new role.
