In an exclusive interview held in Calabar on Friday, Hon. Joseph Bassey, the Member representing Akpabuyo, Bakassi and Calabar South Federal Constituency, presented a detailed account of his stewardship after two and a half years in office. The lawmaker, who also chairs the House Committee on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, reassured his constituents of his unwavering commitment to delivering effective and responsive representation.
Legislative Focus and Tangible Constituency Projects
Hon. Bassey stated that his mission has been to change the narrative of political representation by focusing on people-centric initiatives. He emphasized his dedication to articulating the interests of his constituency in the House of Representatives, justifying the confidence placed in him by the electorate.
He revealed that despite a reserved political style that has kept many achievements from widespread publicity, his work has spanned key sectors. In education, he facilitated the establishment of a fully equipped ICT Centre at Government Science School on Mayne Avenue, boosting digital literacy. He also oversaw the construction of new classroom blocks in several schools, including Idundu Akpabuyo, Government Secondary School Efut Abua, Edgerly Ballantyne School, and Ikot Eneyo Secondary School.
His educational interventions include scholarship programmes valued at over ₦100 million. This funding has enabled five students to study abroad, 855 to study within Nigeria, and 1,555 beneficiaries under a Domestic Education Support Initiative, marking one of the most extensive educational pushes in the area.
Infrastructure, Empowerment, and Quiet Philanthropy
Addressing basic amenities, Hon. Bassey facilitated the installation of solar-powered boreholes across Akpabuyo, Bakassi, and Calabar South, providing communities with free potable water. To enhance security and night-time economies, he facilitated the installation of over 3,000 solar streetlights across the three local government areas.
In a major economic empowerment drive, he facilitated support for 600 women and youths in poultry farming, backed by ₦100 million in cash, 30,000 day-old chicks, and feed. Another 1,000 beneficiaries gained skills acquisition and business start-up support. The lawmaker also played key roles in facilitating employment opportunities in agencies like the Nigerian Army, Police, NEMA, and the NPC.
On the legislative floor, Hon. Bassey has been active, having moved eight motions and sponsored five bills, all focused on improving public welfare.
A Commitment to Silent Service and Grassroots Welfare
Beyond official programmes, Hon. Bassey is known for his quiet philanthropy, offering cash and material aid to countless individuals within and beyond his constituency. He noted his consistent distribution of large Christmas and New Year packages to constituents as a testament to his grassroots commitment.
"It has indeed been a trying period for me, but as the Trustee of the People’s sacred mandate, I deliberately and continuously keep the people’s hope alive by working assiduously to deliver on my promises," Bassey stated. He added that despite legislative challenges, he remained focused on his electoral pledges.
Political observers suggest that while Nigeria's political scene often rewards vocal achievements, Hon. Joseph 'Papa' Bassey's record demonstrates that dedicated, silent service can produce tangible results for the people.
