Why Frank Archibong’s Water Project is More Than Just a Birthday Gift to Esit Urua People

Why Frank Archibong’s Water Project is More Than Just a Birthday Gift to Esit Urua People

Itoro Etti

When Mkpisong Frank Archibong, the Dean of Commissioners and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, turned 50, he didn’t just celebrate with fanfare or throw an elaborate party. Instead, he chose to, aside from life other touching projects elsewhere, gift the people of Esit Urua, my community, a befitting gift, something spectacular and far more valuable than gold-plated souvenirs, wines and drinks – access to clean water.

Archibong, a former Eket Council boss’s donation of a 20,000-litre borehole reticulated water system with a treatment plant to the Esit Urua community might appear as another philanthropic gesture by a political figure, but it carries a deeper significance. This project stands as a practical response to a long-standing problem.

During electioneering campaigns, water was one of the foremost requests from Esit Urua residents. Women and youths pleaded for relief from years of dependence on unsafe water sources. Archibong did not forget. It may have taken time, but his delivery—complete with water treatment and reticulation to two additional locations—reflects intentional leadership and representation. This was not a token gesture; it was a structured solution to a critical need.

In his words:

“This water was based on request. When we came for campaigns, the women asked for water. The youths came to my house and still solicited for water.
“Sorry it took longer than expected, but we’ve added a treatment plant and reticulated it to two different locations so as to accommodate more people in this community.”

This is significant because access to safe water is a fundamental human right and a catalyst for community development. Lack of clean water leads to diseases, limits educational outcomes—especially for children—and hinders economic productivity. By addressing this, Archibong has not only improved public health but also contributed to the social and economic resilience of Esit Urua, a community in need of attention.

Furthermore, the symbolism cannot be overlooked. In a political environment often criticized for empty promises, this act underscores accountability and continuity. Archibong’s insistence that the water facility is “their property” and not government property reinforces a sense of communal ownership, which is crucial for sustainability.

Chairman of Eket LGA, Hon. Akan Tommey, aptly captured the spirit of the moment:

“Don’t treat this potable water supply as government property, but as your personal property.”

What makes this even more meaningful is the timing. At 50—a milestone often associated with reflection and legacy—Archibong has set an example for leaders who aspire to be remembered not for titles held, but for lives impacted.

The Paramount Ruler of Eket, His Majesty ECD Abia, said it best:

“Aside from the air we breathe, water is the best thing we have.”

Archibong’s gesture is not just a birthday gift; it is a model for socially conscious leadership—a reminder that governance is about solving real problems. For Esit Urua, this borehole is not just about water; it is about dignity, health, and hope for a better tomorrow and for me, it is hope given and hope restored with high hopes that the Community will witness even more government presence, going forward and like Oliver Twist, we have no option than to ask for even more attention to this ancient Ekid Community.

Itoro Etti, a Journalist writes from Esit Urua Village