Architect Ezekiel Nya-Etok, the Executive Director of the Federal Housing Authority, has announced plans to support about 2,000 students across five tertiary institutions in Akwa Ibom State to acquire shares in the Dangote Refinery initial public offering (IPO), in addition to his earlier pledge to support 1,000 students of Akwa Ibom origin.
Nya-Etok disclosed this while announcing plans to visit the state for political engagements and interact with students in selected institutions.
“I will also use the opportunity to visit some five institutions to get about 200 students each to support to own shares in the Dangote Refinery IPO, in addition to my earlier offer to 1,000 students of Akwa Ibom origin in any institution, and anyone schooling in any of the tertiary institutions in the state,” he said.
The initiative could extend investment opportunities to as many as 3,000 students, subject to the implementation of the proposed support and the eligibility of beneficiaries.
The Federal Housing Authority Executive Director said the intervention would provide young people with an opportunity to participate in investment in one of Nigeria’s major industrial ventures.
Nya-Etok’s announcement comes amid broader discussions about expanding financial inclusion and encouraging young Nigerians to explore investment opportunities beyond conventional savings.
C54 News to Boost Akwa Ibom’s Investment Prospects
In a related development, Nya-Etok has highlighted the economic and employment opportunities expected from the establishment of C54 News, an intercontinental television channel unveiled in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The media organisation, designed to tell Africa’s stories through African perspectives, has production hubs in Nigeria, South Africa and Kenya.
The unveiling attracted former Nigerian Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, as well as former Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi and other dignitaries.
Speaking during a media interaction ahead of the unveiling, Nya-Etok said C54 News would increase Akwa Ibom’s visibility across Africa and help attract investors, tourists and business opportunities to the state.
He said the channel would create opportunities for young people, local entrepreneurs, artisans and hospitality operators.
According to him, the platform would also showcase Akwa Ibom’s tourism potential, cultural heritage and natural attractions, including the raffia industry in Ikot Ekpene and the beaches of Uruan and Ibeno.
Nya-Etok explained that the station’s programming would extend beyond political reporting to documentaries and other content capable of presenting the state’s economic and cultural assets to international audiences.
He also challenged prominent individuals in Akwa Ibom to contribute meaningfully to the state’s development rather than engage in distractions.
Nya-Etok Advocates Gradual Approach to Fighting Corruption
At the C54 News unveiling, the architect also argued that corruption in Nigeria could not be eliminated overnight, insisting that the fight required systematic reforms and collective commitment.
He criticised the position he attributed to Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi on tackling corruption, arguing that abrupt pronouncements would not adequately address a problem deeply rooted in the country’s institutions and everyday practices.
Nya-Etok also expressed opposition to Obi’s possible emergence as president in 2027, describing it as a potential disaster for Nigeria.
He urged Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid, arguing that the removal of the petrol subsidy had dealt a significant blow to corruption and entrenched interests.
His comments reflected his position that tackling corruption requires sustained institutional changes rather than quick fixes.
C54 News Promises Professional Standards
Nya-Etok further said C54 News was being developed as a major African news platform, with ambitions to compete with established international broadcasters in covering the continent.
He stressed that the organisation would prioritise professionalism, integrity and global broadcasting standards in its recruitment and operations.
He urged journalists in Akwa Ibom to improve their skills and professional competence to meet the standards expected by the new media organisation.
The channel, he said, would recruit qualified and dedicated professionals without compromising its operational standards.
Nya-Etok expressed optimism that the media platform would contribute to job creation, strengthen journalism practice and give African stories greater international exposure.
The proposed student investment initiative and the launch of C54 News form part of his broader emphasis on expanding opportunities for young people and improving Akwa Ibom State’s economic visibility.
