By Emmanuel Uffot
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has announced the approval of N10 billion by the state government to clear outstanding payments owed to contractors by the previous administration. The move said to be in line with his promise of continuity aims to expedite the progress of various projects across the state, including the expansion of the Victor Attah International Airport road.
In addition to addressing the contractors’ payments, Governor Eno highlighted the state’s commitment to the development and growth of Ibom Air. He mentioned that the government has fulfilled its financial obligations to Airbus Corporation, and the first of ten Airbus A220-300 Series airplanes has already been received into the Ibom Air fleet. Furthermore, the governor emphasized the significant investments made in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul facility at the airport, which is set to be inaugurated soon.
Governor Eno also explained the reasons behind conducting an operational audit of the state-owned Ibom plant. The objective is to reposition the plant to maximize its potential benefits for the people of Akwa Ibom.
Regarding security, the governor highlighted the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways. This initiative aims to maintain peace and preserve the state’s reputation as one of the safest in Nigeria. The governor also mentioned the recent launch of the Ibom Community Watch program, which includes 550 watchers commissioned for Uyo Local Government Area. The program aims to create a well-trained team to protect government assets and gather intelligence for security agencies, ultimately generating employment opportunities for the youth.
As still part of the measures to sustain the prevailing peace in the state, the Governor recently donated patrol boats to relevant security agencies for the patrol of the state’s territorial waters.
Furthermore, the Governor Eno had signed the Akwa Ibom Security Trust Fund Bill into law on December 13, 2023. This legislation will enable the mobilization of funds to enhance the security architecture of the state. The governor also emphasized the launch of the Akwa Ibom State Waterways Security Assets, which aims to secure the state’s waterways, protect critical assets, bolster the blue economy, and support local fishermen through enhanced security measures.
These initiatives, he said reflect the commitment of his government to prioritize infrastructure development, security, and economic growth for the benefit of its citizens as encapsulated in his ARISE Agenda.
It could be recalled that during his new year speech on January 1, 2024 Governor Eno had not only enumerated his achievements in the past seven months since assumption of office and what he is set to do in months ahead, but had also announced the debursement of funds to return to side and complete their projects.
Prominent among these ongoing projects are roads, some of them executed by previous administration. Even work is still remaining at the inaugurated ecumenical centre which held the new year thanksgiving service on Tuesday January 2, 2024.
