By Solomon OKPO
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to accelerated development, economic diversification and improved welfare for citizens, as he highlighted key achievements and ongoing initiatives in his 2026 Easter broadcast.
Addressing residents of the state to mark the Christian celebration of Easter, Governor Eno called on citizens to draw inspiration from the resurrection of Jesus Christ, emphasizing themes of sacrifice, hope and renewal.
He expressed appreciation to Akwa Ibom people for their continued support and trust in his administration, noting that such backing has enabled the government to pursue its development blueprint, the Arise Agenda, with notable progress.
The governor disclosed that since assuming office in 2023, his administration has constructed over 1,300 kilometres of roads across the state, with an additional 167 kilometres recently approved by the State Executive Council. He added that infrastructure projects, including roads, healthcare centres and schools, have reached all 31 local government areas.
In the area of rural development, Governor Eno revealed plans to provide solar-powered water schemes across the state’s 369 wards in collaboration with the Golden Initiative for All (GIFA), a pet project of the First Lady. He also noted that youth-friendly centres are being developed in phases across several local government areas to promote ICT and creative industry engagement.
On agriculture, the governor said the state has intensified efforts to drive an agricultural revolution through initiatives such as the Ibom Model Farm, a N2 billion grant to farmers and the planned launch of a palm crop development programme. According to him, N2.5 billion has been approved for the procurement of 620,000 oil palm seedlings to boost production and create wealth in rural communities.
He further announced the approval of N20 million for ward-level cooperative societies to enhance access to funding for small-scale businesses, particularly for women and rural traders, while noting the impact of previous grants on local economies.
Governor Eno also highlighted progress in clearing inherited liabilities, stating that over N82 billion has been paid towards gratuities and other entitlements owed to retirees since 2012.
In social welfare, he disclosed that 355 units of Arise Compassionate Homes have been completed and handed over to vulnerable citizens, with a target of 500 units before the end of his first term.
On economic diversification, the governor said investments in tourism infrastructure, including the Arise Palm Resort, Ibom International Hotel and Convention Centre, are ongoing, alongside improvements in healthcare facilities aimed at boosting medical tourism.
He also reiterated plans to position the state as an aviation hub, noting upgrades at the Victor Attah International Airport and expansion of Ibom Air’s fleet with additional aircraft acquisitions.
Governor Eno acknowledged the role of the Federal Government, thanking Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting international status to the state’s airport.
On power, he announced the establishment of the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Regulatory Commission and Electrification Agency, with a roadmap aimed at improving electricity supply within the next 12 months, particularly in underserved rural areas.
The governor also provided updates on the Ibom Deep Seaport project, stating that feasibility studies, investor engagement and preliminary construction steps have been completed, while urging patience as the project progresses.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to security, he described Akwa Ibom as one of the safest states in Nigeria, attributing this to collaboration between security agencies and local vigilante groups.
He concluded by urging citizens to remain united, avoid divisive politics and continue to support the government’s efforts to build a prosperous state.
Governor Eno wished residents a peaceful Easter celebration, expressing optimism that the state would overcome its challenges and achieve greater progress.
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