Effiong Dickson Bob is a Nigerian lawyer, public administrator, and legislator whose career reflects excellence in law, politics, and education. He represented Akwa Ibom North East Senatorial District in the National Assembly from 2003 to 2011 under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Prior to his senatorial service, he was the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Akwa Ibom State, where he spearheaded judicial reforms. Since 2013, he has served as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, University of Benin, and is currently a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Early Life and Education
Born on October 1, 1959, in Ikot Ekwere-Ubium, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Senator Bob began his academic journey at Government Primary School, Ikot Ekwere, obtaining his First School Leaving Certificate in 1971. He later attended Salvation Army Secondary School, Akai Ubium (1973–1977), before proceeding to the School of Arts and Science, Uyo (1977–1979) for his A-Levels. He studied Law at the University of Lagos, graduating in 1984, and was called to the Nigerian Bar that same year.
Professional and Political Career
Senator Bob began his public service as Pioneer Secretary to the Land Allocation Advisory Committee in Ikot Ekpene (1979–1980), before establishing his law firm, Effiong Bob & Associates (1987), where he remains Principal Partner.
His political career developed through grassroots service:
- Councilor for Works and Transport, Nsit Ubium LGA (1990)
- Deputy Speaker, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly (1992–1993)
- Chairman, Nsit Ubium LGA (1996–1997)
In 1999, he became Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Akwa Ibom State, pioneering judicial reforms and enhancing governance in the state.
Senate Career (2003–2011)
Elected to the Senate in 2003 and re-elected in 2007, Bob distinguished himself as a committed legislator. He chaired key committees, including:
- Senate Services
- Finance
- Power & Steel
- Local & Foreign Debts
He also served on Appropriations, Foreign Affairs, Communications, and Privatization Committees, while representing Nigeria at the ECOWAS Parliament.
His legislative focus covered energy regulation, fiscal transparency, fire safety, trade, and public service reforms. In recognition of his robust contributions, ThisDay Newspaper named him among Nigeria’s most active legislators in 2009.
Books and Publications
Senator Effiong Dickson Bob has authored and inspired scholarly works that advance understanding of law, governance, and legislative independence. Notable among them are:
- Independence of the Legislature in Nigeria: Matters Arising (authored by him)
- Law Making, Good Governance and Administration of Justice in Nigeria (edited volume, with Bob as subject/contributor)
- The Justitia (an essay collection in his honour, edited by Dr. Osaretin George Izevbuwa)
These works reflect his intellectual depth and contributions to Nigeria’s democratic and legal development.
Post-Senate Contributions
Beyond the Senate, Senator Bob has continued shaping governance and education. In 2013, he was appointed Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, University of Benin, where he has promoted higher education governance and institutional reforms.
He remains a respected national voice and a prominent leader within the APC in Akwa Ibom State.
Family Life
Distinguished Senator Effiong Dickson Bob is married to Mrs. Comfort Bob, a devout and supportive partner. Their union is blessed with children, including the current Majority Leader of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.
Leadership Style and Legacy
Senator Bob is widely regarded as:
- A disciplined lawyer
- A reform-driven legislator
- A principled public servant
His enduring legacy rests on contributions to judicial reform, legislative independence, fiscal transparency, and university governance.
Birthday Tribute
Happy Birthday to a wonderful big friend, brother, and mentor. May your years ahead be filled with divine health, wisdom, and continued impactful service to humanity.
Chief Edet Isong, Okete Okete Oro
Publisher, Newsday Newspaper