IBOM Herald

AKWA IBOM'S ROAD TO ECONOMIC PROSPERITY: THE LETTER "E" IN THE ARISE AGENDA.

| By ANIETIE UMANA

Economy can easily be defined as "the structure or conditions of economic life in a country, area, or period"

This concluding series on the ABC of the letters of the ARISE AGENDA seeks to x-ray the economy vis-a-vis the ARISE AGENDA.

At the heart of the development philosophy of His Excellency the Governor, Pst. Umo Eno-PhD in Akwa Ibom State lies a bold and transformative pillar “E” (Economic/Industrial Advancement and Wealth Creation) in the ARISE Agenda.

This pillar is not merely an economic framework; it is a strategic blueprint for prosperity, designed to empower citizens, stimulate enterprise, industrialize the state, and ultimately create a strong socio-economic base that will shape political outcomes heading into the 2027 elections.

The “E” component seeks to restructure the economic architecture of Akwa Ibom State by:

Transitioning from a salary-dependent economy to a production and enterprise-driven economy, Creating wealth at the grassroots level, Positioning the state as a regional hub for investment, tourism, and agro-industrialization, Building a resilient middle class.

CORE POLICY FRAMEWORKS UNDER THE “E” includes :

MSME DEVELOPMENT & ENTREPRENEURSHIP POLICY which guarantees Access to finance through grants and soft support, Enterprise formalization and mentorship, Promotion of cooperative financing systems

AGRICULTURAL ECONOMY & RURAL WEALTH POLICY which has boosted Value chain development in cassava, rice, palm oil, fisheries, Mechanized farming systems, Rural economic hubs and farm estates

INDUSTRIALIZATION & INVESTMENT PROMOTION POLICY creates; Incentives for investors and manufacturers, Promotion of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) which will lead to Reactivation of dormant state industries

TOURISM, HOSPITALITY & CREATIVE POLICY which brings about Monetization of culture, festivals, and heritage during the December Christmas Unplugged, Expansion of hospitality infrastructure, Branding the state as a tourism destination.

YOUTH EMPLOYMENT & DIGITAL ECONOMY POLICY; Skills-to-income programs, ICT training and outsourcing opportunities, Startup incubation and innovation hubs.

The Economic blueprint of his Excellency the Governor, has achieved much gains and has improved the Economy of the State. For example , internally Generated Revenue of the State has seen steady increments from ₦2 billion to ₦7 billion following the implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy. This Courageous move by the Governor is part of efforts to strengthen the state’s financial independence and fund development projects.
The adoption of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) is credited with this rapid revenue growth, allowing better tracking and collection of funds.
The goal of the revenue increase is focused on funding the state's budget and supporting infrastructure development. Recent reports suggest robust economic performance and increased revenue.

This has led to significant strides in the development of the state's economy.

KEY PROJECTS & PROGRAMS UNDER THE “E” in the ARISE AGENDA;

MSME & ENTERPRISE EMPOWERMENT- ARISE MSME Grant Scheme, Direct financial grants to traders, artisans, and startups, Focus on women and youth-led businesses

ARISE Equipment Support Programme- Distribution of tools to small-scale entrepreneurs which has Boost productivity and reduces startup barriers.

Cooperative & Microfinance Strengthening Initiative- Expansion of cooperative societies to all the 369 Wards of the State that will leas to Grassroots wealth pooling and credit access

AGRICULTURE & AGRO-INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT; ARISE Farm Programme, Provision of inputs, seedlings, and extension services, Support for large-scale and smallholder farmers. The establishment of the Ibom Model Farms will no doubt boost food production and scale up the revenue base of the state . Other Demonstration farms across local governments will complement the IBOM model farms.
Training, employment, and productivity hubs will aid Agro-Processing Facilities, Cassava processing plants, Rice mills, Palm oil refining facilities and Reduction in post-harvest losses.

Another sector capable of boosting the Economy of the State is through TOURISM, HOSPITALITY & CREATIVE INDUSTRY, under this sector, the State has been well positioned through the ARISE Tourism Development Programme , under this initiative, Upgrade of tourist sites and attractions, Promotion of cultural festivals, Hospitality Sector Expansion, Support for hotels and resorts, Capacity building for service providers, Creative Industry Growth, Film, music, arts, and fashion promotion are all targeted as drivers in this area of the State's Economy.

Youth play a critical role in development of our economy, and so His Excellency the Governor has initiated various youth programs al geared toward building the economy and to make the youth self reliant. There are various youth programs which includes; ARISE Youth Employment Scheme, Job creation across sectors, Digital Skills & ICT Empowerment, Training in tech, freelancing, and remote work, Startup & Innovation Support, Incubation hubs for tech entrepreneurs through the Youth friendly Centres across the State.

The Governor has done much in Investment Promotion & building the Business Climate in the State. This he has achieved through; Investment Summits, Attracting local and foreign investors, Ease of Doing Business Reforms, Faster approvals and reduced red tape, Diaspora Investment Drive and Engaging Akwa Ibom indigenes abroad..

There has been gains & Achievements Since the inauguration of his Excellency the Governor, Pst Umo Eno in 2023,

The “E” pillar has recorded measurable progress: Thousands of small businesses supported, Increased entrepreneurial activity across urban and rural areas,
Direct jobs through empowerment programs, Indirect jobs via agriculture, construction, and services
Boost in local food production, Expansion of agro-processing value chains, Reduction in rural poverty.

The Economy thrives on activities that generate income , as so one way of ensuring that is though the Budget, the
Governor signed the 2026 Akwa Ibom State Budget, titled "The People's Budget of Expansion and Growth," into law with a total of ₦1.584 trillion. The budget prioritizes infrastructure and economic growth, allocating 76% (₦1.168 trillion) to capital expenditure and 24% (₦416.6 billion) to recurrent expenses.
Key Details of the 2026 Budget:
Total Budget Size: ₦1.584 Trillion.
Capital Expenditure: ₦1.168 Trillion (approx. 76%).
Recurrent Expenditure: ₦416.6 Billion (approx. 24%).
Key Focus Areas: Infrastructure (roads and bridges), agriculture, education, and health.
Key Projects: Development of rural infrastructure, strengthening food security, and investment in human capital.

With the total implementation of the budget, the State will continue to consolidate and record significant gains in the economy which will lead to the general prosperity for her citizens.

The “E” in the ARISE Agenda represents the practical pathway to prosperity in Akwa Ibom State. It is a huge deliberate, structured, and inclusive approach to wealth creation that touches every segment of society—from farmers and traders to tech entrepreneurs and investors.

As implementation deepens, this pillar is poised to Entrench sustainable development, Build a resilient economy.

Ultimately, the success of this economic blueprint will determine not just the prosperity of the people, but also the enduring legacy of the administration.

We call on all well meaning citizens of Akwa IBOM state to support His Excellency the Governor for a Second term by voting for him during the Elections in February 2027.

WHEN NATURE ALIGNS WITH THE ARISE AGENDA

| BY ANIETIE UMANA

The 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day may have come and gone, but for the widows and family members of the fallen heroes, , that day will remain indelible in Thier minds, it was a day the compassionate Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Pst. Umo Eno- PhD, touched the lives of the widows of the fallen soldiers and that of other serving military personnel.

The Governor approved the construction of 150 lock- up Stores and the release of take off grants to the allottees ( wives of the fallen heroes) to support sustainable livelihood, His Excellency also approved 120 million Naira financial support to serving military officers, and 20 million for the Nigerian legion. What a noble gesture!

This pieces is not about that kind gesture, rather it's about an aspect of the event as it rounded off.

It was a solemn morning of the 15th of January 2026 at the Cenotaph, Uyo and as part of the ceremonial rites to draw the armed forces remembrance day celebration to an end , His Excellency the Governor as it is customary, released a pigeon into the sky—a symbolic gesture of peace, hope, freedom and remembrance. In that defining moment, the bird did not flutter uncertainly or drift aimlessly; it soared swiftly, steady, and majestically upward, almost as if guided by an unseen harmony between nature and purpose.

That singular act, witnessed by many, transcended ritual. It became a metaphor and a message. It became a quiet but powerful testament that, under this administration, even nature appears to align with the direction of governance in Akwa Ibom State.

The ceremonial release of pigeons is traditionally symbolic of peace and honour for fallen heroes , and also of freedom and libration . But in this instance, the upward flight of the bird seemed to mirror the trajectory of the State itself, rising, purposeful, and undeterred under the current administration.

Governance, particularly in developing contexts, is often at the mercy of unpredictable forces, economic turbulence, social pressures, and even environmental disruptions. Yet, in Akwa Ibom State, the narrative appears strikingly different. The seasons have come and gone, rains have fallen and will continue to fall especially as we enter the rainy seasons, tides will shift, but none have and will significantly hinder the steady march of development under the Governor's watch as helmsman of Akwa Ibom state.

From infrastructure expansion to social welfare interventions, the state’s development trajectory has remained consistent. This continuity suggests a leadership model that is not reactive, but anticipatory, one that builds resilience into its systems, ensuring that natural or external disruptions do not derail progress.

In agricultural communities, where weather patterns often dictate economic outcomes, government interventions have cushioned potential shocks. In urban centres, infrastructural planning has mitigated the effects of seasonal flooding, and where prevalent , Goverment is addressing the issue.
Across sectors, there is evidence of a governance style that works with nature, not against it.

To say “even nature aligns” is not mere poetic exaggeration, it speaks to a deeper philosophy of governance. Governor Umo Eno’s leadership reflects an understanding that sustainable development must be in harmony with the environment.

Policies under his administration have emphasized Sustainability in infrastructure development, ensuring that roads, housing, and public facilities are built to withstand environmental stress. Agricultural support systems that help farmers adapt to changing climatic conditions.

Healthcare and social systems that remain functional regardless of seasonal or environmental challenges.

This alignment creates a system where governance flows seamlessly, much like the pigeon’s flight; focused, uninterrupted, deliberate, strategic and upward-bound.

Nigeria, like many nations, faces multifaceted challenges, economic fluctuations, security concerns, and environmental unpredictability. Yet, Akwa Ibom under Governor Umo Eno has carved out a reputation for a peace, stability and steady progress.

The administration’s commitment to welfare, particularly for vulnerable groups such as widows of fallen soldiers, underscores a governance model rooted in empathy and responsibility . This human-centered approach ensures that development is not abstract, but tangible and inclusive.

When governance is people-focused and strategically executed, even the harshest external conditions lose their disruptive power.

That pigeon, released on a day of remembrance, did more than honour the past, it pointed to the future. Its upward flight symbolized progress, Its stability in motion reflected consistency in governance. Its freedom in the open sky echoed the expanding opportunities for citizens.

In many ways, it captured the essence of the ARISE Agenda, lifting people, strengthening systems, and building a state that rises above limitations.

Great leadership does not merely react to circumstances; it shapes them. In Akwa Ibom State, Governor Umo Eno has demonstrated that when governance is rooted in prudence, inclusivity, and foresight, it creates a rhythm that even nature seems to follow.

The rains do not wash away progress. The tides do not erode development. The winds do not scatter vision.

Instead, like that pigeon on Remembrance Day, everything points in one direction, upward!

Indeed, under Governor Umo Eno, even nature aligns!

FIVE REASONS GOVERNOR UMO ENO DESERVES A SECOND TERM IN OFFICE-PART 1

BY ANIETIE UMANA

The world over, political office holders where their constitution allows seek for second term in office, and depending on their performance during the first term, the electorates either vote them in or out of office.

This is because Leadership is often judged not by promises made during campaigns but by the tangible impact of governance on the lives of the people after assuming office. In Akwa Ibom State, the administration of His excellency, Pst Umo Eno-PhD has steadily demonstrated a governance philosophy rooted in service, compassion, and sustainable development.

Through the Five point ARISE Agenda, the governor has pursued a clear roadmap for economic growth and social progress aimed at delivering democratic dividends to the people of Akwa Ibom State.

After nearly three years in office, the results are visible across the whole state. In this article, we will use the Thematic areas of the ARISE AGENDA as the basis to show why His Excellency deserves a second term in office, this article will come in two parts, this first part will xray the first two thematic areas; ARICULTURAL REVOLUTION AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT,

The second part will conclude on the remaining thematic areas. The ARISE AGENDA forms the very basis the Governor deserves a second term, because the inspiration and driving force of development across the state are all derived from these thematic areas and are well interpreted by His Excellency to deliver on his campaign promises and they also form compelling and irresistible reasons why our Governor deserves the opportunity to consolidate his achievements with a second term in office.

A – AGRICULTURE: LAYING THE FOUNDATION FOR FOOD SECURITY AND AGRO-INDUSTRIAL GROWTH

The Governor has taken Agriculture from mere subsistence farming towards a well-structured agribusiness endeavor and this has guaranteed food security and employment for our teeming youth.

Recognizing that agriculture remains a powerful tool for economic diversification, the administration has introduced several initiatives designed to empower farmers and stimulate rural economies.

One of the landmark projects is the Ibom Model Farm, developed in partnership with Songhai Farms of the Benin Republic. The farm serves as a modern agricultural hub for training farmers in mechanized farming, agro-processing, and agribusiness management. When fully in operation, the farm is designed as a large integrated modern farm system that combines crop production, livestock, aquaculture, agro-processing, training and agro-tourism, located at IKOT Edibon, Nsit Ubium, the farm sits on about fifty hectares of land and will boast of zero-waste agriculture, technology-driven farming, value-chain development, youth training and empowerment to mention a few.

Crops like tomatoes, cucumber, yam, cassava, cabbage, carrot, pawpaw, pineapple, orange, lettuce, pepper will be cultivated to ensure adequate supply to the markets for consumption. The livestock component of the farm will have poultry brooding and broiler units, piggery, feed mill and abattoir. The farm will have fish ponds and fish production units that will help increase local fish supply and reduce dependence on some imported fish.

The farm will have a juice processing unit, bakery and storage facilities, other facilities include administrative buildings, farm residence for workers, classrooms for training, canteen and restaurant, water reservoir, solar powered system to ensure power supply, car park.
Beyond institutional projects, the government has provided direct financial support to farmers across the state.

Through empowerment programmes, thousands of farmers have received grants, enabling them to expand production and increase yields. The distribution of fertilizers, improved seedlings, cassava stems, and other farm inputs has further strengthened the agricultural value chain.

The ARISE Home Farms Programme has also encouraged residents to cultivate crops within their communities, thereby promoting food sufficiency while reducing dependence on external food supplies.
Through these initiatives, agriculture in the state is gradually evolving into a productive sector capable of generating employment, strengthening food security, and contributing to economic growth.

R – RURAL DEVELOPMENT: BRINGING GOVERNANCE TO THE DOORSTEPS OF THE PEOPLE

True development is measured by the quality of life in rural communities. Governor Umo Eno’s administration has made rural development a priority, ensuring that the benefits of governance extend beyond urban centers. Under the One Project Per Local Government Initiative, this has impacted rural development as each of the 31 Local Government Areas received specific project based on community needs, these projects include; Roads, Schools, markets, water projects, Primary Health Care Facilities.

The administration has opened up rural communities through intensive road construction and rehabilitation, from Ini to Abak, Nsit Ubium to Ibiono Ibom, Ibeno to Oron , over seventy rural roads have been constructed or under construction, construction of bridges and feeder roads linking remote communities.

As a Governor that is known for his humane disposition and compassion, the Governor has approved over two hundred ARISE Compassionate Homes, which provides free, fully furnished houses to vulnerable citizens including widows, the elderly, and the underprivileged. The initiative has restored dignity to many families who previously lived in poor housing conditions and these houses have added to the aesthetics of these rural communities.

In addition, the government has invested in rural infrastructure such as, electrification projects, boreholes, and market development. These interventions are not only improving living standards but also strengthening rural economies by enabling rural dwellers to have access to basic infrastructure. Through these programs, rural communities are witnessing renewed attention, demonstrating a government that recognizes the importance of inclusive development.

From all the foregoing it is very clear that the Governor is very deliberate about development, and in just three years, have delivered on his campaign promises in line with the ARISE AGENDA. The Governor needs to consolidate on all these achievements, in our local parlance we say, KED ANEM NTOM, IBA? Meaning, IF ONE TASTES THIS GOOD, HOW ABOUT TWO? There is no doubt that if in two and half years the Governor can achieve this much, It simply means in eight years, the dividends of democracy will quadruple what we have now. I call on all well-meaning Akwa Ibom citizens to rise up and support our dear Governor for a second Term in office, this call has already gotten resounding endorsements from groups and individuals and the road to the Hilltop mansion in 2027 has been cleared for the Governor to go for a second term in office.

Watch out for the concluding part of this series.

THE BURDEN OF GOVERNANCE AND GOVERNOR UMO ENO’S ANTIDOTE; TRANSFORMING LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITY INTO TANGIBLE DEVELOPMENT IN AKWA IBOM STATE- PART 2

BY ANIETIE UMANA

We now conclude this brief series in this article, in part one, we saw how his Excellency’s leadership that is rooted in service has resulted in keeping his campaign promises. Governance, at its core, is a solemn responsibility—a burden that demands vision, sacrifice, and the courage to take decisions that shape the future of a people. In Akwa Ibom State, that burden has found a steady and pragmatic response in the leadership style of His Excellency Pst Umo Eno-PhD. Through his people-focused ARISE Agenda, the governor continues to demonstrate that the antidote to the challenges of governance is practical development, deliberate policy implementation, and compassion for the welfare of citizens.
While the early years of his administration laid the groundwork for economic inclusion and social development, the latter years of the first of his two terms in office has seen strategic interventions in transportation, maritime infrastructure, security, workers’ welfare, and the settlement of long-standing gratuity obligations.

REVOLUTIONIZING TRANSPORTATION: THE CNG VEHICLE INITIATIVE
One of the most forward-looking steps taken by the Governor is the establishment of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicle initiative in Akwa Ibom State. This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s growing transition to cleaner and more affordable energy sources.
By supporting the development of a CNG vehicle conversion and assembly plant, the administration is not only addressing transportation costs but also creating employment opportunities for technicians, engineers, and logistics operators.

The significance of the CNG initiative includes: Reducing transportation costs for citizens and commercial transport operators, Promoting clean energy and reducing carbon emissions, Creating a new industrial ecosystem around vehicle conversion, maintenance, and energy supply, Positioning Akwa Ibom as a hub for alternative fuel transportation in the South-South region.
For a state known for innovation, the CNG initiative signals a transition from traditional fuel dependency to sustainable and cost-efficient mobility solutions.

REVIVING MARITIME POTENTIAL: THE ORON JETTY PROJECT
Akwa Ibom’s strategic coastal location presents enormous maritime opportunities. Recognizing this potential, His Excellency the Governor has prioritized the revitalization of maritime infrastructure, particularly the development of the Oron Maritime Jetty and the whole maritime corridor in Oron.
The jetty project is designed to: Facilitate water transportation between coastal communities, boost inter-state and regional maritime trade, enhance tourism and commercial activities in the whole of that maritime corridor, Provide modern docking facilities for boats and passenger ferries to name just a few.
For decades, the maritime potential of Oron remained underutilized. The renewed focus on the jetty project represents a strategic effort to transform the area into a vibrant maritime gateway for Akwa Ibom State.

STRENGTHENING SECURITY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
No development agenda can thrive in an environment of insecurity; the Governor has therefore taken deliberate steps to strengthen security architecture across the state.
Through collaboration with Federal security agencies and community-based structures like the Ibom Community Watch, the administration has improved surveillance, operational logistics, and rapid response mechanisms. The Ibom Community Watch saw the recruitment of five hundred personnel who were trained on certain security protocols and had long been deployed to strategic locations across the State Capital. This initiative will also see the recruitment of more personnel to be deployed across the whole state.
Key interventions include: Provision of security vehicles and operational support for law enforcement agencies, strengthening community policing structures, Improved coordination among security agencies to address criminal activities, Strategic security presence in vulnerable communities and waterways.
These efforts have contributed to maintaining Akwa Ibom’s reputation as one of the safest states for business and investment in Nigeria.

CLEARING THE BURDEN OF THE PAST: PAYMENT OF GRATUITY BACKLOGS
One of the most humane dimensions of Governor Umo Eno’s leadership has been his commitment to settling backlogs of gratuities owed to retired civil servants.
For many retirees, gratuity payments represent the reward for decades of service. Unfortunately, in many states across Nigeria, these obligations accumulate into large arrears, leaving retirees in hardship.
Under the current administration: Substantial amount of gratuity arrears have been paid, so far, His excellency has approved a total of Eighty Billion Naira as at February 2026 for payment of backlog of gratuities for retirees, backlogs dating back to 2012, A structured payment system has been introduced to clear outstanding liabilities, the remaining Retirees now enjoy renewed hope and confidence that their entitlements will be paid.
By prioritizing retirees, the governor has demonstrated that governance must carry both economic vision and human compassion.

WORKERS’ WELFARE: STRENGTHENING THE BACKBONE OF GOVERNMENT
Civil servants remain the engine room of government policy implementation. Recognizing this, the Governor has consistently placed workers’ welfare at the center of his administration.
Key achievements include: Prompt and regular payment of salaries and payment of the 13th Month ( EnoMba) by December to enable Public Servants to enjoy their Christmas holidays, Improved working conditions across government institutions, Continuous engagement with labor unions to ensure industrial harmony, Training and capacity-building programs to enhance public service efficiency.
Through these measures, the administration has reinforced a culture where workers feel valued, motivated, and empowered to contribute to the State’s development.

GOVERNANCE WITH PURPOSE
The burden of governance often tests the strength of leadership. Yet, through deliberate policy choices and people-centered governance, Governor Umo Eno continues to transform challenges into opportunities for progress.

From modern transportation solutions and maritime infrastructure to security strengthening and social welfare commitments, the administration’s actions reflect a leadership philosophy anchored on service, responsibility, and inclusive development.
As Akwa Ibom continues its journey of transformation, the governor’s approach stands as a reminder that the true antidote to the burden of governance is leadership that turns promises into measurable impact.

THE BURDEN OF GOVERNANCE AND GOVERNOR UMO ENO’S ANTIDOTE: TRANSFORMING LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITY INTO TANGIBLE DEVELOPMENT IN AKWA IBOM STATE- PART ONE

Anietie Umana

Governance everywhere in the World is never an easy task. It demands vision, resilience, sacrifice, and a deep commitment to the welfare of the people. Around the globe, leaders grapple with bureaucratic bottlenecks, competing interests, and the constant pressure to meet the expectations of citizens after each cycle of elections where campaign promises were made. Yet, the true test of leadership lies not in the challenges encountered but, in the ability, to transform those challenges into opportunities for growth and progress.
In Akwa Ibom State, at the dawn of the administration of His excellency Pst Umo Eno-PhD, the Governor offers a compelling example of how purposeful leadership can convert the burden of governance into a catalyst for development. Guided by the ARISE Agenda, the Governor has continued to pursue policies that prioritize people-centered development and inclusive economic growth.

INFRASTRUCTURE AS A FOUNDATION FOR DEVELOPMENT;

One of the defining features of the administration has been its commitment to infrastructure development. Across the state, numerous road construction projects have been awarded with realistic delivery timelines, several life touching projects have opened up several communities in the thirty-one local government areas of the State, this has led to improved transportation, commerce, and access to essential services.
These projects represent a strategic effort to stimulate economic activity and ensure that rural communities are fully integrated into the state’s development framework.

EMPOWERING FARMERS AND STRENGTHENING FOOD SECURITY;

Agriculture has remained central to the administration’s development drive and strategy. Currently there is an Agricultural revolution Through the IBOM model farms , Through various empowerment programs, farmers have received grants, equipment, and training to improve productivity.
By promoting agricultural value chains and encouraging agro-processing initiatives, the government has taken deliberate steps to ensure that farmers not only produce food but also benefit economically from their efforts. This approach has strengthened food security while creating employment opportunities for young people.

SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESSES AND LOCAL ENTERPRISES;

Small and medium-scale enterprises are the backbone of any thriving economy. Recognizing this, the administration has introduced several initiatives aimed at empowering entrepreneurs, traders, and artisans.
Through financial grants, training programs, and capacity-building initiatives, many citizens have been supported to expand their businesses and improve their livelihoods.

INVESTING IN EDUCATION AND HUMAN CAPITAL;

Education remains a major pillar of development under the ARISE Agenda. The administration has invested in improving school infrastructure through the construction of the ARISE Model Primary Schools, renovating and construction of classroom blocks in Secondary schools, supporting teachers with improved welfare packages, and enhancing the learning environment for pupils and students across the state. Payment of WAEC fees for Students in secondary schools have continued to be prioritized by the Governor.
These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to human capital development, ensuring that young people are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to compete in a rapidly changing world.

HEALTHCARE AND SOCIAL PROTECTION;

The government has also focused on strengthening healthcare delivery by upgrading medical facilities and expanding access to quality healthcare services across the state. This has been achieved by building world class health facilities, the ARISE model primary health centers in every local government area ensures that people leaving in the rural area have access to quality health care, our general hospitals have been well equipped and construction of new general hospitals have been executed under the administration of his excellency the Governor, currently the construction of a three hundred and fifty bed world class specialist hospital is under way along the medical corridor in Uyo
In addition, social intervention programs like the ARISE health Insurance Scheme targeting women, youth, and vulnerable groups have been implemented to carter for these set of people.

HONORING THE ELDERLY: THE ARISE ELDERLY CITIZENS CENTRE;

A landmark initiative of the administration is the ARISE Elderly Citizens Centre, a facility established to provide care and support for senior citizens.
The Centre offers accommodation, healthcare, recreational facilities, and social support, reflecting Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to ensuring that elderly citizens live with dignity and comfort after years of contributing to the development of society. This facility was commissioned on the 7th of March 2026 by the First Lady Her Exellency, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu the wife of the President.

LEADERSHIP ROOTED IN SERVICE;

Governor Umo Eno’s approach to governance reflects a deep understanding that public office is fundamentally about service. Through constant engagement with communities and stakeholders, the administration has sought to align government policies with the real needs of the people.
This style of leadership has helped to build trust and confidence in government while ensuring that development initiatives have direct and visible impact on citizens.
The burden of governance is often heavy, but visionary leadership can transform that burden into an opportunity for progress. In Akwa Ibom State, the steady strides recorded under the administration of His Exellency Pst Umo Eno-PhD demonstrates that with dedication, empathy, and a clear development blueprint, government can indeed deliver meaningful change.

The story of this administration is therefore not merely about managing the responsibilities of office. It is about redefining governance as a vehicle for empowerment, prosperity, and sustainable development as promised by the Governor upon assumption of office as the fifth democratically elected Chief Executive of the State.