Millions of mentors and mentees dot the face of the earth. As mentors are guiding and leading others, mentees must look up to them and admire their charisma so they can radiate towards emulating them. While millions of persons around the world do truly follow their mentors and grow in their ways, many others do fall by the way side, drifting away from their focus and meeting something else than their initial projections. Yours truly, like many others, do submit to the mentorship of this cerebral colossus.
I still recall the excitement I felt when our paths crossed with Hon. Eseme Eyiboh during the 2019 gubernatorial polls in Akwa Ibom State. Having admired him from afar for over a decade, meeting him in person was a truly unforgettable experience. Meeting Hon. Eyiboh was not only a privilege but also an inspiration. His passion for public service and his commitment to making a positive impact on his community are qualities that I believe we can all learn from. As someone who has been in the public eye for many years, he remains humble and dedicated to his work.
A seasoned politician, Hon. Eyiboh has made a name for himself in Nigerian politics. He served as a member of the Eket Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011. His dedication to public service and his commitment to the development of his community are qualities that many deeply admire. He was the Chairman of the Committee on Information at the House of Representatives; and Dean of the Intellectual Wing of the Senate and House of Representatives, and Chairman of the Cross River Basin Development Authority. His experience and expertise have earned him a reputation as a respected and influential figure in Nigerian politics.
Eyiboh’s commitment to public service is evident in his various roles, including serving as spokesperson for the Nsima Ekere Campaign organisation during the 2019 elections. Hon. Eyiboh’s current role as Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, is a testament to his expertise and experience in the field of politics and communication. His ability to navigate complex political landscapes and provide strategic guidance is truly impressive.
Hon. Eseme Eyiboh’s display of sophistry in political engagements has left many in awe. His natural inclination towards persuasion, particularly when speaking on national television, is a testament to his exceptional communication skills and deep understanding of Nigerian and international politics. His power of argument is rooted in his ability to articulate complex ideas in a clear and concise manner, making him a compelling speaker. His deep knowledge of Nigerian politics, garnered from years of experience, enables him to navigate intricate discussions with ease, often leaving his opponents struggling to counter his points.
One of the key characteristics of Eyiboh’s sophistry is his ability to think critically and strategically. He possesses a unique capacity to analyze situations, identify patterns, and develop effective arguments that resonate with his audience. This skillset allows him to excel in high-pressure environments, such as live television debates, where quick thinking and articulate expressions are essential. His persuasive abilities are also influenced by his understanding of human psychology. He has a keen sense of how to appeal to his audience’s emotions, values, and beliefs, making his arguments more relatable and convincing. This talent for emotional intelligence enables him to build connections with people from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of trust and credibility that is essential for effective leadership.
In the context of Nigerian politics, Eyiboh’s sophistry is particularly significant. His ability to navigate the complex web of interests, alliances, and rivalries that define the country’s political landscape is impressive. He has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the historical, cultural, and socioeconomic factors that shape Nigerian politics. These help him to develop nuanced arguments that take into account the diverse perspectives and needs of the country’s citizens.
As spokesperson to the Nigerian president of the Senate, Eyiboh harbours in himself a unique selling point. Nigeria, as we know it is such a country with a complex political philosophy. From the oval view of ethnicity, to religious grounds and other major standpoints, leading any section of the country’s bureaucracy comes with a compelling force. Therefore, the many controversies and conspiracy theories burgled up against the Akpabio’s leadership of the Senate have always fallen flat when Eyiboh mounts the television hotseats. On many occasions when I watch him dissect the various boiling issues, it becomes difficult to hold the tears that fall freely on my face. These are always tears of joy and of the assurances I have that Akpabio has his job efficiently protected by a man deeply rooted in the workings of the Nigerian polity.
Also, in a world where selflessness and kindness are often in short supply, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh stands out as a shining template of love and compassion. As a seasoned politician and public servant, he consistently demonstrates commitment to helping others, often going above and beyond to support those in need. One of the most remarkable aspects of Hon. Eyiboh’s philanthropic efforts is his dedication to education. He has sponsored numerous individuals in their undergraduate and postgraduate studies, providing them with the financial support and encouragement they need to pursue their academic dreams. This selfless act has not only transformed the lives of these individuals but has also had a ripple effect on their families and communities.
Hon. Eyiboh’s love and compassion extend far beyond his support for education. He has been known to provide financial assistance to those struggling to make ends meet, to offer guidance and mentorship to young people, and to advocate for the rights and interests of marginalised communities. What sets Hon. Eyiboh apart from others is his willingness to help without seeking to draw attention to himself. He is a humble and unassuming individual who prefers to let his actions speak louder than words. His kindness and generosity have earned him the respect and admiration of countless people. There are many who are inspired and motivated by his examples to make a positive difference in their own communities. It must be added here that Eseme Eyiboh has a superior sense of humour and possesses the unbeatable capacity to stage multiples of positive surprises. He can stir your spirit to high heavens when you least expected.
As Hon. Eseme Eyiboh marks a major milestone, his 65th birthday, it is clear that his life’s work has left an indelible mark on Nigerian politics and the lives of countless individuals. With a career spanning decades, he has demonstrated unwavering dedication to public service, education, and philanthropy. Here’s wishing this cerebral colossus a happy 65th birthday, with many more years of healthy living, wisdom, and continued service to humanity. May his legacy continue to inspire generations to come.
Joseph Atainyang a journalist with WatchmanPost Newspaper
