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Muna Tengi
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Nsima Ekere: Biography, Net Worth, Family, Business, And Political Career
Nsima Ekere is a notable figure in Nigerian politics and business, particularly known for his involvement in public administration and corporate governance. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a seasoned businessman and politician, especially in his home state of Akwa Ibom. His achievements span across business and politics, making him one of the prominent figures in the Nigerian socio-economic landscape. This blog post provides an overview of Nsima Ekere’s biography, family background, business ventures, political career, and net worth.
Early Life and Education
Nsima Ekere was born on May 29, 1965, in Ikot Oboroenyin, in the Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. He grew up in a family that was deeply rooted in public service and business, which inspired his passion for leadership and governance from an early age.
Ekere’s educational background is equally impressive. He attended Methodist Boys High School, Oron, and later proceeded to the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Estate Management. This academic foundation in estate management not only shaped his career in the business sector but also prepared him for his roles in public administration, especially concerning land and property development.
Family Life
Nsima Ekere maintains a relatively private family life despite his public persona. He is married to Ese Nsima Ekere, and they have children together. The family is known for their strong Christian values, and they actively participate in church and charity work, particularly in their home state of Akwa Ibom.
Although details about his children and extended family are not extensively documented, it is clear that his family plays a supportive role in his career and public life.
Business Ventures
Before fully venturing into politics, Nsima Ekere had a thriving career in business, particularly in the real estate sector. His background in estate management opened doors to various entrepreneurial opportunities, especially in property development. Ekere served as the Principal Partner of Ekere and Associates, a firm focused on real estate consultancy and management.
He also held various board positions in major Nigerian companies, especially in the oil and gas sector. For instance, he was a director of Gulf of Guinea Petroleum Corporation and Safal Group, both significant players in Nigeria’s oil industry. His business acumen has been highly recognized, and his contributions to corporate governance have further bolstered his reputation as a savvy businessman.
Nsima Ekere’s business ventures have undoubtedly contributed to his wealth. His diverse portfolio in real estate, oil, and other sectors has ensured his financial success and positioned him as one of the wealthier individuals in Nigeria, particularly within the political class.
Political Career
Entry into Politics
Nsima Ekere’s political career began in earnest during the early 2000s. He entered the political arena in Akwa Ibom State, where he quickly rose to prominence due to his business success and strategic acumen. His first major political role was in 2007, when he was appointed as the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State under Governor Godswill Akpabio. Ekere served in this capacity from 2011 to 2012, when he resigned from office due to personal reasons.
Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC)
Perhaps the most significant role in Ekere’s political career was his appointment as the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in 2016. The NDDC is a critical institution responsible for the development of Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta region, an area fraught with environmental degradation and underdevelopment despite its immense wealth.
During his tenure, Ekere launched the 4-Point Agenda, a strategy aimed at restructuring the NDDC for better service delivery. His leadership at the NDDC was characterized by efforts to improve infrastructure, promote economic development, and ensure transparency in the allocation of resources within the Niger Delta region. Ekere's time at the NDDC positioned him as a prominent figure in regional and national politics.
2019 Governorship Bid
In 2019, Nsima Ekere contested for the Governor of Akwa Ibom State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). His candidacy was built on a promise of change, with a focus on infrastructural development, job creation, and governance reforms in Akwa Ibom. Although his campaign was robust, he lost the election to the incumbent governor, Udom Emmanuel of the People's Democratic Party (PDP). Despite this defeat, Ekere has remained a significant figure in both state and national politics.
Political Ideology and Influence
Nsima Ekere is known for his centrist approach to politics, advocating for development-focused governance. He emphasizes the importance of public-private partnerships in driving economic growth and infrastructural development. His work with the NDDC demonstrated his commitment to improving the Niger Delta region’s socio-economic conditions, a stance that has earned him respect both within and outside Akwa Ibom.
Net Worth
Nsima Ekere’s wealth is the result of his successful ventures in both business and politics. His exact net worth is not publicly known, but his involvement in lucrative sectors like oil and gas, combined with his real estate business and political appointments, suggests that he is among Nigeria’s wealthy elite. Estimates suggest that his net worth could be in the millions of dollars, though this remains speculative given the lack of verified figures.
His financial standing has also been bolstered by his strategic positions in government, particularly his role as the Managing Director of the NDDC. Ekere’s wealth enables him to wield significant influence, both in business and politics.
Challenges and Controversies
Like many Nigerian politicians, Nsima Ekere’s career has not been without controversy. During his tenure at the NDDC, there were accusations of mismanagement of funds, although no concrete evidence has surfaced implicating him directly. Political opponents have also criticized his governance style and his handling of issues within the Niger Delta region. However, Ekere has consistently denied any wrongdoing and maintains a strong public image.
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Beyond his business and political ventures, Nsima Ekere is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He has been involved in various charitable initiatives, particularly focused on education, health, and poverty alleviation in Akwa Ibom and the Niger Delta. His foundation, the Nsima Ekere Foundation, has undertaken several projects aimed at improving the lives of the less privileged, further enhancing his reputation as a community-focused leader.
Conclusion
Nsima Ekere is a multifaceted figure in Nigeria, combining successful careers in both business and politics. His work in the Niger Delta, especially through the NDDC, and his leadership roles in various companies have solidified his status as an influential leader. Despite setbacks in his political aspirations, such as his 2019 gubernatorial loss, Ekere remains a significant force in Akwa Ibom politics and the broader Nigerian political landscape.
With a blend of business savvy and a commitment to public service, Nsima Ekere continues to be a prominent figure whose impact on Nigerian politics and the economy is undeniable. His wealth, experience, and political influence position him as a key player in shaping the future of Akwa Ibom and Nigeria as a whole.
