By Abasiama Etukakpan
The BLUEWAY Ocean Foundation has pledged to partner with Nsit Ubium Local Government Area to give the Patience Umo Eno ICT Centre a major face-lift.
The centre was commissioned over a year ago. It is solar-powered and was both constructed and is currently managed by Nsit Ubium LGA. Speaking during the visit, the centre’s consultant, Mr. Owoidighe Ibiok called for stronger collaboration with the council to improve operations.
The council chairman had earlier equipped the facility with a 25kva solar system, over 200 laptops, and CCTV cameras. Welcoming the foundation’s team, he requested the donation of air conditioners to make the centre more conducive for students.
Mr. Rehoboth Umo Eno, the Chairman of Blueway Ocean Foundation, thanked the Nsit Ubium council chairman. He described the moment as emotional, noting the centre was named after his late mother, Pastor Patience Umo Eno. He stressed that with the world moving into a digital era, training young Akwa Ibomites in ICT is critical for the future, and he promised to donate 2 standing AC units to the centre.
BLUEWAY Ocean Foundation MD, Mr. Iniodu Ndada also pledged the foundation’s support to ensure the centre stands the test of time. He prayed for the council leadership and commended the chairman for his people-focused projects. He also lauded the state governor for giving young people key roles in his administration.
As part of the partnership, Mr. Ndada announced that the first 3 Nsit Ubium students to sit for JAMB at the centre and gain admission will receive automatic scholarships through the university level. He further applauded the chairman’s 100 million naira Educational Trust Fund set up for Nsit Ubium students to secure a brighter future.
In his response, the Executive Chairman, Hon. Alfred Charles thanked the foundation for the visit and donation made to immortalize the late First Lady, whom he described as a mother to many in Akwa Ibom. He commended his predecessor for naming the centre after her and highlighted its wide impact. He reaffirmed his commitment to continue delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Nsit Ubium.
