Godswill Akpabio Biography
Godswill Akpabio, born on December 9, 1962, in Ukana Ikot Ntuen, Akwa Ibom State, rose from modest beginnings to become one of Nigeria’s prominent political leaders. He is the son of Chief Obot Akpabio and Madam Lucy Obot Akpabio, both from Ukana Ikot Ntuen in Essien Udim Local Government Area. His father’s early death left him in the care of his mother, who played a key role in shaping his upbringing and values. Despite the challenges of his early years, Godswill Akpabio stayed focused and determined, eventually pursuing a successful career in law and politics.
Godswill Akpabio Family and Personal Life
Godswill Akpabio comes from a family with a history of leadership and service. His grandfather, Okuku Udo Akpabio, was a Warrant Chief in the Ikot Ekpene province. His uncle, Dr. I. U. Akpabio, served as Minister of Education and Internal Affairs in the former Eastern Nigeria, while his cousin, Justice Nsima Akpabio, was a senator during Nigeria’s Second Republic.
Godswill Akpabio Parents
Godswill Akpabio is the son of Chief Obot Akpabio and Madam Lucy Obot Akpabio, both from Ukana Ikot Ntuen in Essien Udim Local Government Area.
Godswill Akpabio Age
Born on December 9, 1962, Senator Godswill Akpabio is 63 years old as of 2025.
Godswill Akpabio Wife
He is married to Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, founder of the Family Life Enhancement Initiative (FLEI), a non-governmental organization committed to supporting families as a tool for development and the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
Ekaette, born on June 9, 1971, to the late Godwin and Beatrice Nkemdilim Ejike of Ozom Aguobu-Owa in Ezeagu LGA of Enugu State, became an indigene of Akwa Ibom through her marriage. She studied Mathematics at Abia State University, Uturu, and is known for her strong Catholic faith, community service, and dedication to charitable causes.
Godswill Akpabio Career
After earning his law degree and being called to the Nigerian Bar, Godswill Akpabio briefly worked as a teacher before starting his legal practice at Paul Usoro & Co. He later joined EMIS Telecoms Limited, Lagos, where he rose to become Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer in 2002. He also served as the National Publicity Secretary of the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCOM).
His political career began when he was appointed Commissioner for Special Duties and Petroleum Resources in Akwa Ibom State. In 2006, Godswill Akpabio won the PDP governorship primaries, defeating 57 other aspirants, and was subsequently elected Governor of Akwa Ibom State in 2007. He was re-elected in 2011 for a second term.
Godswill Akpabio Children
The couple has five children, four daughters and a son. Despite their father’s political prominence, they have lived relatively private lives.
Unwana Akpabio (eldest daughter) studied business administration and management abroad.
Emem Akpabio pursued law, obtaining an LLB from a UK university and was later called to the Nigerian Bar.
Nsentip Akpabio studied fashion design at an international institution, specializing in African-inspired designs.
Imaobong Akpabio holds a degree in International Relations and Diplomacy, with a strong interest in African politics and global governance.
Godswill Akpabio Education
Godswill Akpabio began his education at Methodist Primary School, Ukana, and later attended Federal Government College, Port Harcourt, where he became Senior Prefect. He studied Law at the University of Calabar, where he also served as Speaker of the Student Union Government (1987/88 session).
Godswill Akpabio Religion
Godswill Akpabio is a devoted Catholic and actively participates in church and community activities.
Godswill Akpabio Road to the Senate
After two terms as governor, Godswill Akpabio was elected senator for Akwa Ibom North-West in 2015 on the PDP platform, winning with over 422,000 votes. He became Senate Minority Leader the same year but resigned in 2018 following his defection to the APC.
In 2019, he was appointed Minister of Niger Delta Affairs by President Muhammadu Buhari. He later resigned in 2022 to contest the APC presidential primaries but stepped down for Bola Tinubu. In 2023, he returned to the Senate after winning his district’s seat. On June 13, 2023, he was elected Senate President, defeating Abdulaziz Yari with 63 votes against 46.
Godswill Akpabio Awards and Honors
Godswill Akpabio has received several recognitions for his contributions in politics, law, and governance, including:
International Honors: U.S. Congressional Certificate of Recognition (2011), Africa Lifetime Achievement Prize, Gold Humanitarian Services Award, and Honorary Citizenship of Georgia (USA).
National Honors: Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and multiple awards for infrastructure development and governance.
Media Honors: Governor of the Year (2010, 2012), Man of the Year (2009–2011), and Best Governor in Africa (Africa Development Magazine).
Academic & Professional Honors: Numerous honorary doctorates from Nigerian universities, Fellowships from professional institutions, and recognition as one of the few non-engineers honored by the Nigerian Society of Engineers.
Luxury Cars and Private Jet
During his governorship, Godswill Akpabio reportedly acquired a $45 million private jet and several armored luxury vehicles, including customized bulletproof Mercedes-Benz vans and SUVs.
Godswill Akpabio Controversies
Godswill Akpabio has faced several controversies, including:
Sexual harassment allegations (2025): Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accused him of misconduct, leading to public debate, legal battles, and calls for investigation.
Corruption allegations (2007–2015): He was investigated by the EFCC over alleged diversion of state funds estimated at over ₦100 billion. Although no charges were filed, reports from U.S. diplomats described corruption under his tenure as “exceptional.”
Godswill Akpabio Social Media
Instagram: @godswill_akpabio
Twitter (X): @President of the Senate
Godswill Akpabio Net Worth
According to Forbes, Godswill Akpabio’s net worth is estimated at about ₦13.7 billion, largely derived from his political career and business ventures.
FAQs
Which state is Godswill Akpabio from?
He hails from Ukana in Essien Udim LGA of Akwa Ibom State.
What is his full name?
Senator Godswill Akpabio.
How many children does Godswill Akpabio have?
The couple has five children, four daughters and a son. And they’re:
Unwana Akpabio, Emem Akpabio, Nsentip Akpabio, Imaobong Akpabio
Which party does Godswill Akpabio belong to?
All Progressives Congress (APC).
What is Godswill Akpabio religion?
A devoted Catholic and actively participates in church and community activities.
Is Godswill Akpabio Married?
Yes, He is married to Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, founder of the Family Life Enhancement Initiative (FLEI).
Who are Godswill Akpabio Parents?
Chief Obot Akpabio and Madam Lucy Obot Akpabio.