Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has expressed optimism about the future of the state as it celebrates its 39th anniversary. In a broadcast on Wednesday, Eno reflected on the state’s founding on 23 September 1987, highlighting 39 years marked by faith, resilience, sacrifice, progress, and divine grace.
Paying tribute to the leaders and founding figures of the state, Eno acknowledged the contributions of traditional institutions, workers, farmers, teachers, clergy, professionals, and entrepreneurs.
Looking back on his three years in office, the governor outlined his administration’s ARISE Agenda. He said it aimed to serve the people by building, empowering, and providing opportunities. Eno announced that over 1,500 kilometres of roads and 43 bridges are currently under construction, ensuring infrastructure reaches even the most remote communities.
In education, the governor noted the maintenance of free and compulsory schooling at primary and secondary levels, the distribution of N1.69 billion in bursaries, and the recruitment of 3,000 teachers. He also announced the transformation of the College of Education in Afaha Nsit into a university.
Two exceptional students received scholarships: Uwakmfon Unwana Jacob, awarded N30 million for software engineering at Nile University, and Dr Joseph Akpan, who received N160 million for a master’s in Surgical and Intervention Science at McGill University, Canada.
In healthcare, Eno reported that 258,000 people, including the elderly, are covered by the state-run medical insurance scheme, with ambulance services established in every local government area.
He stated that more than 1,700 farmers benefited from grants under the palm tree crop initiative, while over 4,000 youths have trained at the Ibom-LED and Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre, with over N2 billion disbursed.
The governor confirmed the handover of over 500 ARISE Compassionate Homes to vulnerable citizens and announced that N98 billion of N111 billion in inherited gratuities and emoluments had been paid to retirees.
On aviation, Eno mentioned the addition of a fifth aircraft, an Airbus A220-300, to Ibom Air, emphasising the airline’s role as a symbol of confidence and enterprise.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the Ibom Deep Seaport as a vital economic gateway and announced investments in tourism assets, including the Arise Palm Resort and International Convention Centre.
Eno also noted the establishment of the Akwa Ibom Electricity Regulatory Commission and Electrification Agency to enhance power supply. He urged the people of Akwa Ibom to maintain peace and unity, stressing that political differences should not lead to division.
He thanked the people both at home and abroad for their support, assuring them that his administration would continue to build, empower, and unite the state.
