A Comprehensive Review of Akwa Ibom’s Achievements
Akwa Ibom Governor, Umo Eno, has delivered a detailed account of his administration's accomplishments over the past two years, highlighting transparency, measurable impact, and inclusive governance. The event, themed “Measuring Progress, Deepening Impact,” brought together stakeholders from various sectors, including politics, media, civil society, and the corporate world.
The forum was held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Uyo, the state capital. The Governor described the gathering as a fulfillment of his promise to regularly update the people on the progress of his administration. He quoted Peter Drucker, saying, “You can’t improve what you can’t measure.” This sentiment underpinned the purpose of the event: to measure, improve, and create a lasting impact.
Gratitude and Acknowledgments
The Governor expressed deep appreciation for the contributions of key figures and departments that made the scorecard possible. These included the Secretary to the State Government, the Executive Assistant and Chief Delivery Advisor, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, and the Statistician-General. Professor Chris Ekong, who led the data collation process, was also acknowledged for his efforts.
Governor Eno emphasized that his administration is data-driven, leading to the establishment of an independent Bureau of Statistics, already signed into law. This initiative aims to enhance the integrity of data collection and policy implementation. He thanked the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly for its cooperation in expediting the legislative process.
Addressing Criticisms and Financial Management
In response to critics who accuse his administration of being frugal, Governor Eno defended his approach, stating that prudent resource management has helped eliminate procurement waste. He claimed that billions of naira have been saved by streamlining contracts and redefining procurement processes to prevent leakages and ensure compliance with the new procurement law.
Social Impact Initiatives
The Governor highlighted several social impact initiatives, including the construction of 205 ARISE Compassionate Homes for the indigent across the state. The target is to reach 500 homes before the end of his first term. He emphasized the mission to uplift the most vulnerable members of society.
He also addressed the state’s handling of gratuity arrears, noting a reduction in liabilities from ₦90 billion to ₦78 billion. Significant investments have been made in public infrastructure, including economic roads, healthcare, and aviation. Two brand-new CRJ-900 Bombardier aircraft and Airbus A200-300s have been acquired for Ibom Air, while the international terminal at Victor Attah Airport is nearing completion.
Health Sector Developments
In the health sector, the Governor highlighted the rollout of model primary healthcare centers, expansion of free medical care under the ARISE insurance scheme, and the commissioning of a Mother and Child Hospital in Ibiono Ibom LGA. Over 130,000 people have been registered under the scheme so far.
Tourism and Economic Diversification
Tourism and economic diversification are key pillars of the administration’s ARISE Agenda. The state is constructing a tourism hub, ARISE Resort, on a previously erosion-threatened ravine near the Government House. The project is described as Nigeria’s mini-Disneyland.
Employment and Education
Employment creation through infrastructural development, agriculture, and education remains a priority. The Governor reiterated his belief in self-reliance, citing the distribution of food items, home garden competitions, and his personal involvement in growing vegetables at Government House. He encouraged residents to return to farming.
Funding and Collaboration
All ongoing projects, numbering over 50, are being executed without any bank loans, according to the Governor. He praised the Tinubu-led Federal Government for supporting subnational governments through improved disbursement and reforms.
On education, the Governor disputed some national statistics on out-of-school children, asserting that the state’s free and compulsory education policy, along with student grants, has significantly improved enrollment figures. He called on the National Bureau of Statistics to collaborate with the state to verify the new data.
Security and Unity
The Governor commended security agencies and local policing structures for maintaining peace in the state. From 2023 till now, there have been extremely low incidents of crime, including reduced kidnapping, armed robbery, and pipeline vandalism. He stated that Akwa Ibom is among the most peaceful states in Nigeria.
Call for Collaboration
In a unifying message, Governor Eno called for collaboration beyond party lines, emphasizing that development must take precedence over politics. He urged residents to prioritize the state’s development over political divisions.
Future Vision
With a robust foundation laid, the Governor affirmed that the next phase will focus on building on achievements and accelerating delivery. He emphasized that Akwa Ibom is open for business, for living, and for thriving. The future of the state is one that everyone can be proud of.