By Solomon OKPO
Governor Umo Eno has approved the release of an additional N2.3 billion for the payment of gratuities, pushing total disbursements under his administration to nearly N80 billion since he assumed office on May 29, 2023.
The latest payment is part of efforts to liquidate the N111 billion backlog of gratuities and other emoluments inherited by the administration, some of which date back to 2012. The governor had pledged during the 2023 electioneering campaign and reiterated during the presentation of the 2026 Budget that his government would consistently reduce the outstanding debt owed to retired civil servants.
Nearly three years into his tenure, the administration has made significant progress in addressing the arrears, signaling what government officials describe as a deliberate policy of financial responsibility and social justice.
Governor Eno has consistently framed the settlement of gratuities as a moral obligation and a core component of his administration’s social investment agenda. In his inaugural address, he pledged to prioritize the welfare of the vulnerable and to govern with compassion, drawing from his personal story of resilience.
Beyond gratuity payments, the governor’s ARISE Agenda has expanded social support initiatives across the state. Under the ARISE Compassionate Homes scheme, 335 housing units have so far been completed and handed over to beneficiaries, with a target of 500 homes within the first term.
In addition, 50 elderly citizens, selected on a rotational basis from the 369 wards in the state, receive N50,000 monthly stipends under the ARISE Elderly Care Initiative. Over 10,000 vulnerable residents have also been enrolled in the ARISE Medical Insurance Scheme at no cost, widening access to healthcare services.
Despite the heavy financial commitment to social welfare and backlog payments, the administration continues to pursue large-scale projects in tourism, aviation, agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and power.
Observers note that the steady reduction of gratuity arrears, alongside ongoing capital projects, reflects a dual-track governance approach aimed at clearing inherited liabilities while investing in future growth.
With nearly N80 billion already paid out of the inherited N111 billion, the government appears determined to close the gap, reinforcing its message that commitments made to the people of Akwa Ibom will be honored.
The Evangelist News
