By Solomon OKPO
In a strong reaffirmation of his administration’s commitment to strengthening basic education, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on Thursday commissioned the ARISE Model Primary School at Ikot Isong, Etinan Local Government Area—signaling a bold stride in rural educational development under the ARISE Agenda.
Represented by his Political Adviser, Dr. Godwin Ntukudeh, Governor Eno emphasized that the construction of the ultra-modern facility aligns with his administration’s drive to ensure foundational learning takes root, particularly in rural communities where access to quality education has historically lagged.
“This project is a symbol of hope and a testament to our commitment to improving learning conditions across Akwa Ibom State,” the Governor stated. “We are deliberately transforming our rural areas by building model schools, thereby discouraging rural-urban migration and ensuring every child, regardless of location, has access to world-class education.”
The Governor further noted that the initiative forms part of a broader vision of the ARISE Agenda, which encompasses education, healthcare, infrastructure, and industrial development. He charged teachers to make full use of the facilities and ensure the delivery of global-standard education.
“We are not only constructing schools and health centres; we are opening roads and reviving industries. Ibom Paint is back in Etinan. This is the reality of the ARISE Agenda,” he declared.
He also appealed for effective security around the school, urging the Local Government Chairman to work closely with the Ministry of Internal Security to protect the investment.
In his welcome address, the Executive Chairman of Etinan LGA, Hon. Uko Umoh, lauded the Governor’s dedication to the area’s development. He described the ARISE Model Primary School as a monumental achievement that reflects the state’s focus on inclusive governance and pledged continuous support from the people of Etinan.
To further enhance learning, Hon. Umoh announced the donation of 20,000 branded exercise books and school uniforms for pupils, underlining local government commitment to the success of the initiative.
Commissioner for Education, Professor Ubong Umoh, in his technical overview, stated that the school is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including an ICT laboratory, modern classrooms, solar-powered electricity, a fully functional sick bay, assembly hall, library, and staff quarters. He added that the school also features Early Child Care Development Centres (ECCDC), a playground, and a security post to safeguard students and staff.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Uko Umoh, SAN, described the facility as not just an educational landmark, but one with potential for educational tourism, due to its design, quality, and impact.
Other dignitaries, including Hon. Uduak Ekpoufot, member representing Etinan State Constituency, and several political leaders across party lines—among them Israel Tommy of the APC, Isantim Kenneth Okon, and Otuekong Sunny Jackson—commended Governor Eno for what they termed a transformative leadership approach that places education at the centre of development.
They praised the ARISE Model School as a tangible dividend of democracy, reinforcing hope and opportunities for children in Etinan and beyond.
