UYO – Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has refuted claims that his administration fails to release funds for developmental projects, urging citizens not to be swayed by misleading narratives. Speaking on Monday during the opening of the maiden State Executive Council (EXCO) Ministerial Briefing and End-of-Year Review in Uyo, Governor Eno emphasized the need for realistic governance aligned with economic realities rather than unfounded expectations. "We Use Funds Responsibly" Addressing stakeholders at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Uyo, Eno said: “The funds we manage are held in trust for the Akwa Ibom people, and we ensure they are disbursed responsibly to address the needs of the majority. In the last 18 months, we’ve concentrated on initiatives that help our people and avoided actions that do not create value.” He dismissed criticisms regarding his administration’s lack of new industries, explaining that his campaign promises did not include building industries. “I never promised during my campaigns to bring industries. Industries are folding up nationwide because the environment is not conducive. To attract industries, we need critical infrastructure like electricity,” he said. A Focus on Infrastructure and SMEs Governor Eno highlighted his administration’s approach to sustainable development, prioritizing investments in infrastructure, real estate, and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). He explained that these investments would generate long-term economic benefits and secure the state’s future amid dwindling federal allocations. “The funds we have should be invested in infrastructure that will generate returns and secure our future, especially when federal allocations from Abuja may no longer suffice,” he added. Engaging Citizens: Town Halls and Accountability To foster direct communication with the people, Governor Eno announced plans for bi-monthly town hall meetings across federal constituencies starting February 2025. These meetings aim to: Engage citizens directly, Address their concerns, and Incorporate feedback into the 2026 budget. Ibom Deep Sea Port Update Responding to concerns about the Ibom Deep Sea Port project, Eno reaffirmed his commitment to completing inherited infrastructure projects, acknowledging that the state lacks resources to independently fund the port. Chairman of the project, Mrs. Mfon Usoro, revealed that construction is expected to commence in the third quarter of 2027. Stakeholder Praise and Transparency Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prince Enobong Uwah, commended Governor Eno’s efforts at inclusive governance. Former Attorney General, Uwemedimo Nwoko (SAN), praised the governor’s transparency: “This forum where the government briefs stakeholders on achievements over the past year is creativity in transparency.” The event brought together representatives from key sociocultural groups like Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio, Ati Annang, traditional rulers, political leaders, and civil society organizations. Stakeholders applauded Eno’s commitment to open governance and community engagement. Key Takeaways: Funds Are Managed Responsibly – Governor Eno assures citizens that development funds are disbursed transparently for initiatives that create real value. Realistic Development Focus – Investments in SMEs, infrastructure, and critical foundations take precedence over unrealistic promises of industries. Direct Citizen Engagement – The bi-monthly town halls starting in February 2025 will give citizens a platform to voice concerns and contribute to governance. Long-term Development Plans – Projects like the Ibom Deep Sea Port remain a priority, with timelines for commencement clearly outlined.
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Governor Umo Eno Releases ₦50bn to Ensure Contractors Work Through Christmas

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has announced the release of ₦50 billion to contractors working on ongoing projects across the state, ensuring they remain on-site and complete their work throughout the Christmas season. The move is aimed at accelerating project timelines, particularly during the dry season, which is crucial for effective project execution in the state’s challenging weather conditions.

The announcement was made on Monday during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Aviation Village at Victor Attah International Airport, a key infrastructure development project that forms part of the state’s broader push to strengthen its aviation sector. Governor Eno emphasized the need to maximize the favorable weather period to complete critical infrastructure projects, and highlighted that contractors who sign undertakings to stay on-site through the festive period would be compensated accordingly.

“We are releasing ₦50 billion to contractors to ensure they don’t go on Christmas vacation. Only contractors who sign undertakings to stay back and complete their projects will be paid,” Eno said. The Governor also assured that a dedicated project monitoring team would be established to ensure strict compliance with the terms of the agreement.

₦220bn for Road Projects in 2024

Governor Eno further disclosed that ₦220 billion has been allocated for road projects in Akwa Ibom’s 2024 budget, part of efforts to establish the state as a major hub for construction and infrastructure development. The Governor affirmed that the state’s commitment to building a solid infrastructure base would continue into 2025.

“We aim to consolidate these efforts by 2025,” he added, outlining his vision to ensure Akwa Ibom’s development as a key player in Nigeria’s infrastructure landscape.

Commitment to Aviation Infrastructure

A strong advocate for advancing the state’s aviation sector, Governor Eno reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making Akwa Ibom Nigeria’s aviation hub. He commended RAS Premium Construction Limited for its swift mobilization and site preparation for the Aviation Village, noting that the site, once a bush, has been transformed into a construction zone. The Governor urged the company to continue its work in accordance with the contract terms.

“The site was once a bush, but you have transformed it. Your dedication is evident. I encourage you to remain on-site because you met our conditions and won the bid,” Governor Eno said.

Probe into Ibom Power Company’s Operations

In another significant development, Governor Eno announced the formation of a probe panel to investigate the operations of Ibom Power Company following the removal of its Managing Director, Engr. Meyen Etukudo. The Governor expressed concerns over the company’s financial performance, which he described as unsatisfactory, stating that the company was running at a loss and owed its gas supplier.

“We need to determine why the company is running at a loss and owes its gas supplier. Any government investment that fails to yield profit will lead to the removal of the MD. I don’t care about blackmail. We cannot continue investing public funds in projects that yield no results. That’s not how I was raised,” Eno declared.

Praise for Akwa Ibom’s Aviation Policies

The Chairman of Ibom Airport Development Company, Dr. Iniobong Essien, praised Governor Eno’s aviation policies, which he described as forward-thinking and transformative for the state’s aviation sector. Dr. Essien hailed the Aviation Village project as an innovative initiative that will significantly enhance the development of the aviation industry in Akwa Ibom.

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