The Honourable Representative for Ibiono Ibom/Itu Federal Constituency, Hon. Unyime Idem, PhD, has sent forth another Akwa Ibom indigene, Mr. Ufot Clement Umoh, to the United Kingdom to pursue a PhD in Operations and Supply Chain Management at the University of Glasgow, Scotland, on a fully funded scholarship.
Mr. Umoh, who holds a Master’s degree in Economics, has a remarkable story of resilience and determination. His initial pursuit of a doctoral degree in Economics at the University of Ibadan, where he specialised in Petroleum and Energy Economics, was tragically interrupted by a road traffic accident that left him using a wheelchair.
Despite the devastating setback, Ufot refused to abandon his academic ambitions.
Years of hard work had already been invested in his doctoral journey before the accident. However, rather than allowing the circumstances to define his future, he remained determined to pursue his dream of attaining the highest level of academic achievement.
Hon. Unyime Idem said he was particularly inspired by Ufot’s resilience, intellectual capacity and determination to overcome the challenges that followed the accident.
According to him, Ufot’s story demonstrates that physical limitations should never define the boundaries of a person’s intellect, aspirations or contribution to society.
“When I became aware of his story and academic aspirations, I felt compelled to support him in restarting the journey that circumstances had forced him to abandon.
“Today, that dream has received a new lease of life.
“This is not merely about sponsoring another scholarship. It is about restoring hope, opening a new chapter and giving a determined young Akwa Ibomite the opportunity to demonstrate what is possible when talent meets opportunity,” Hon. Idem said.
He expressed particular delight that Ufot will now have the opportunity to continue his academic journey at the University of Glasgow, Scotland, and pursue his doctoral studies in Operations and Supply Chain Management.
Hon. Idem further stated that Ufot Clement Umoh is part of the third batch of beneficiaries he is sponsoring to the United Kingdom for postgraduate studies, in continuation of his commitment to investing in human capital development.
He reiterated his determination to train hundreds of Akwa Ibom indigenes abroad, exposing them to global knowledge, advanced academic opportunities and international experience, while empowering them to become self-sufficient and contribute meaningfully to the development of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.
He said:
«“I believe that one of the most important investments we can make in the future of our state is an investment in our people.»
«“Education creates opportunities, knowledge builds capacity, and global exposure broadens possibilities.»
«“When our young people are given the right opportunities, they can return as catalysts for development and transformation.”»
Hon. Idem congratulated Ufot Clement Umoh on the new chapter of his academic journey and encouraged him to make the most of the opportunity.
He said Ufot’s story should inspire other young people facing difficult circumstances never to surrender their dreams.
“Your journey has not ended; a new chapter has begun. Go to Glasgow, pursue excellence and continue to inspire others by your determination and courage,” he said.
Hon. Unyime Idem reaffirmed his commitment to supporting education, human capital development and the empowerment of young people across Akwa Ibom State.
