Nsima Ekere

Early Life and Background

Obong Nsima Udo Ekere was born on May 29, 1965, in Ikot Oboro, Edemaya, a community within the Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. His early life was rooted in the rich cultural heritage of the Ibibio people, a major ethnic group in the Niger Delta region. Growing up in a period of significant socio-economic changes in Nigeria, Ekere was exposed to the realities of community development challenges and the aspirations of the people, which profoundly influenced his later career choices. His parents instilled in him strong values of diligence, community service, and academic pursuit. He spent his formative years in his hometown, where he received his primary and secondary education, laying the groundwork for his future academic and professional endeavors.

Education

Nsima Ekere's academic journey is marked by a strong foundation in business administration and professional development. He began his higher education at the University of Calabar, Cross River State, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Business Administration. He successfully graduated in 1986, earning his degree with commendable performance. Following his university education, Ekere committed to continuous professional growth, earning several certifications and fellowships that enhanced his administrative and managerial acumen. He is a distinguished Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management (FNIM), a testament to his expertise in general management principles and practices. Furthermore, he is also a Fellow of the Institute of Cost Management (FICM), demonstrating his proficiency in cost analysis, financial management, and strategic resource allocation. These professional qualifications provided him with a robust theoretical and practical framework that would prove invaluable in his subsequent career in both the private and public sectors.

Career

Nsima Ekere's career trajectory is characterized by a dynamic blend of private sector experience and extensive public service at various levels of government. He commenced his professional life in the banking sector, gaining valuable experience in financial management and corporate operations. He worked with reputable institutions such as Continental Merchant Bank and International Merchant Bank, where he honed his skills in finance, strategy, and client relations. This early experience provided him with a solid understanding of economic principles and organizational efficiency.

His foray into public service began in 1997 when he was elected as the Chairman of the Ikot Abasi Local Government Area, a position he held until 1998. During his tenure, he focused on grassroots development and improving local governance. Following Nigeria's return to democratic rule in 1999, Ekere was appointed as the Commissioner for Works, Housing, and Transport in Akwa Ibom State under the administration of Governor Victor Attah. He served in this crucial role from 1999 to 2001, overseeing significant infrastructure projects and contributing to the state's urban and rural development agenda.

After a period away from direct political office, he returned to public service in 2007 as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Akwa Ibom Savings and Loans Limited, where he served until 2010. His leadership revitalized the institution, contributing to its stability and growth. In 2011, Nsima Ekere was appointed as the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, serving alongside Governor Godswill Akpabio. He occupied this high-profile position from June 2011 until his resignation on October 31, 2012, citing personal reasons. His brief but impactful tenure as Deputy Governor saw him contributing to policy formulation and implementation in the state.

In 2016, his extensive experience and administrative prowess earned him a presidential appointment as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) by President Muhammadu Buhari. He served in this critical regional development agency from 2016 until January 2019. During his time at the helm of NDDC, Ekere spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at transforming the socio-economic landscape of the Niger Delta region. In 2019, he transitioned into a new political challenge, contesting the gubernatorial election for Akwa Ibom State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Despite a spirited campaign, he was unsuccessful in his bid, losing to the incumbent Governor Udom Emmanuel.

Major Achievements

Nsima Ekere's career is dotted with significant achievements across various sectors. As the Chairman of Ikot Abasi Local Government Area, he initiated and completed several community development projects, improving local infrastructure and public services. During his tenure as Commissioner for Works, Housing, and Transport in Akwa Ibom State, he played a pivotal role in the execution of key road networks, housing schemes, and transport infrastructure that enhanced connectivity and living standards across the state. His leadership at Akwa Ibom Savings and Loans Limited saw a period of strategic repositioning and financial stability for the institution.

His most notable achievements, however, came during his time as the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). Ekere implemented a strategic roadmap focused on completing abandoned projects, initiating new high-impact interventions, and promoting sustainable development. He prioritized infrastructure development, including the construction and rehabilitation of roads, bridges, and shore protection projects across the nine Niger Delta states. Under his leadership, the NDDC focused on youth empowerment programs, vocational training, and scholarships to equip the region's young population with employable skills. He also championed environmental remediation efforts and improved healthcare facilities, demonstrating a holistic approach to regional development. Specific projects include the accelerated completion of sections of the Calabar-Oron road, various canalization projects to address flooding, and the construction of numerous health centers and schools.

Personal Life

Obong Nsima Ekere is married to Mrs. Precious Nsima Ekere. Their marriage is blessed with children. While details of his family life are largely kept private, he is known to maintain a strong family bond and uphold traditional values. He is recognized as a devout Christian and a respected community leader, holding the traditional title of Obong, signifying his standing and influence within his local community and among the Ibibio people. He is known for his calm demeanor and strategic thinking, attributes that have served him well in his demanding public roles.

Legacy

Nsima Ekere's legacy is primarily defined by his commitment to service delivery and regional development, particularly his extensive work in the Niger Delta. His tenure at the NDDC is remembered for a renewed focus on project completion, accountability, and strategic planning, aimed at addressing the multifaceted challenges of the oil-rich region. He demonstrated a clear vision for transforming the Niger Delta through infrastructure, human capacity development, and environmental sustainability. While his political aspirations at the state level faced challenges, his contributions to governance in Akwa Ibom State, first as a local government chairman, then as a commissioner, and later as deputy governor, have left a lasting impact on the state's development trajectory. His career exemplifies a dedication to public service and a continuous effort to improve the lives of the people he served, earning him recognition as a significant figure in Nigerian politics and regional development.