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Muna Tengi
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Senator Bassey Albert Akpan: Biography, Net Worth, Family, Business, And Political Career
Senator Bassey Albert Akpan, widely known as OBA, is a prominent Nigerian politician, economist, and businessman. He is renowned for his commitment to public service and his significant contributions to the economic and political development of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria as a whole. OBA's rise in the political sphere has been marked by a combination of hard work, dedication, and a deep understanding of governance and economic management. His impact has extended from his early days in corporate leadership to his influential roles in the Nigerian Senate.
This blog post provides an in-depth exploration of Bassey Albert Akpan’s biography, net worth, family, business interests, and political career.
Early Life and Education
Bassey Albert Akpan was born on October 28, 1972, into the family of Chief Albert Robert Akpan and Mrs. Imo Albert Akpan in Ididep Usuk, Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. His upbringing was heavily influenced by his father, a respected community leader and civil servant. The values of hard work, discipline, and service to the community were instilled in him from a young age.
For his early education, Bassey attended St. Patrick’s College in Calabar, Cross River State, where he developed an interest in economics and public affairs. After completing his secondary education, he gained admission to the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Economics. His academic journey was marked by a keen interest in economic policies, which would later shape his professional and political career.
Eager to broaden his knowledge, Akpan also attended Harvard Business School, where he completed executive leadership programs. His education equipped him with the skills needed to navigate both the corporate world and the complexities of governance.
Early Career and Business Ventures
Before venturing fully into politics, Bassey Albert Akpan had a distinguished career in banking and finance, where he built a reputation as a skilled economist and business strategist. He began his career in 1997 with the United Bank for Africa (UBA), where he served as a banking officer. His sharp business acumen and leadership qualities quickly propelled him to higher positions within the banking sector.
In 2003, Akpan became an Executive Director of Operations at the Continental Trust Bank, one of Nigeria’s major banks at the time. His role at the bank involved overseeing key financial operations, which included managing large-scale corporate transactions and expanding the bank’s operational network. His expertise in the banking sector and his leadership in economic management earned him accolades, making him one of the leading bankers in Nigeria.
During his banking career, Akpan developed business interests across various sectors, including oil and gas, real estate, and agriculture. His business ventures laid the foundation for his substantial personal wealth, while also creating opportunities for employment and economic development within Akwa Ibom and beyond.
Political Career
Bassey Albert Akpan’s entry into politics was largely motivated by his desire to bring economic reforms and development to his home state, Akwa Ibom, as well as to Nigeria at large. His political career began in earnest in 2007 when he was appointed as the Commissioner for Finance in Akwa Ibom State by the then Governor Godswill Akpabio. In this role, Akpan managed the state's finances, overseeing budgeting, fiscal policies, and financial strategies aimed at driving the state’s development agenda.
Commissioner for Finance (2007-2014)
As Commissioner for Finance, Akpan played a critical role in restructuring the state's finances. His tenure saw significant improvements in revenue generation, prudent financial management, and infrastructure development. One of his major achievements was his leadership in the introduction of policies that enhanced Akwa Ibom’s internally generated revenue (IGR), reducing the state's dependence on federal allocations. His financial expertise also helped attract investments into the state’s key sectors, including industrialization and agriculture.
His tenure as Finance Commissioner was marked by transparency and accountability, earning him respect among his peers and the public. Akpan’s efforts in ensuring the successful completion of large-scale infrastructure projects, such as roads, schools, and healthcare facilities, helped shape his legacy as a transformative public servant.
Senatorial Career (2015–Present)
In 2015, Bassey Albert Akpan contested and won a seat in the Nigerian Senate to represent Akwa Ibom North-East (Uyo) Senatorial District under the platform of the People's Democratic Party (PDP). His entry into the Senate was met with widespread support, given his proven track record in governance and finance.
As a senator, Akpan has been vocal on issues related to national economic policies, governance reforms, youth empowerment, and infrastructure development. He has chaired several key committees in the Senate, including the Senate Committee on Gas Resources, where he championed reforms in the oil and gas sector. His work on this committee focused on promoting transparency in the sector, attracting investments, and ensuring that host communities benefited from oil revenues.
Akpan's influence in the Senate grew over the years, and he became a prominent voice advocating for the interests of his constituents. His legislative efforts include sponsoring bills that seek to address issues like youth unemployment, infrastructural decay, and the need for greater economic diversification in Nigeria.
Founding of the Young Progressives Party (YPP)
In 2022, Bassey Albert Akpan made a bold political move by leaving the PDP to join the Young Progressives Party (YPP). His decision was driven by the desire to create a political platform that would focus more on the needs of young Nigerians and the underprivileged. Akpan became the gubernatorial candidate of YPP in the 2023 Akwa Ibom governorship election, where he showcased his plans for furthering economic growth and social development in the state.
Though he did not win the election, his candidacy energized young voters and positioned the YPP as a growing political force in Akwa Ibom State. Akpan’s vision for a more inclusive political environment has endeared him to many who seek reforms in Nigeria's political landscape.
Family and Personal Life
Senator Bassey Albert Akpan is a family man, married to Mrs. Imaobong Albert Akpan, who has been a supportive partner throughout his political and professional journey. The couple has children, and they maintain a relatively private family life despite Akpan’s public persona.
Akpan is also known for his strong Christian faith, which he credits as a guiding principle in his life and career. He is actively involved in philanthropic activities, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and youth development. Through his foundation, the OBA Foundation, he has provided scholarships to indigent students, supported medical outreach programs, and funded various community development projects in Akwa Ibom State.
Net Worth
Bassey Albert Akpan's net worth is estimated to be in the range of $5 million to $15 million, based on his earnings from his banking career, business ventures, and political career. His investments span multiple sectors, including oil and gas, real estate, and agriculture, contributing to his wealth. Additionally, his political influence and leadership roles have afforded him opportunities to grow his financial portfolio.
Although Akpan’s net worth is substantial, he remains focused on using his resources to impact lives positively, particularly through his charitable and philanthropic initiatives.
Conclusion
Senator Bassey Albert Akpan’s journey from the corporate world to the political sphere reflects his deep commitment to economic reform, social development, and public service. His role in Akwa Ibom’s financial restructuring and his contributions to Nigeria’s legislative process have positioned him as one of the most influential figures in Nigerian politics today.
Akpan's vision for a better Nigeria, his advocacy for youth empowerment, and his dedication to the welfare of his constituents make him a key player in the country’s future political landscape. As he continues to influence public policy and champion reforms, Senator Bassey Albert Akpan remains a leader to watch in the coming years.
